Introduction

Astwood is a small historic village and civil parish in Buckinghamshire, England, situated in the northern part of the modern City of Milton Keynes administrative area. It lies in a rural landscape between Newport Pagnell and Bedford, close to a number of other historic villages and settlements that form part of the countryside of north Buckinghamshire.

Although Astwood is relatively small, it has a long history and a distinctive rural character. Its identity has been shaped by agriculture, the parish church, traditional houses, farms, country lanes and the surrounding fields. The village provides an excellent example of the smaller settlements that existed in Buckinghamshire long before the development of modern Milton Keynes.

Astwood is particularly interesting because of its relationship with the surrounding agricultural landscape. Unlike a large town, the village does not have a dense commercial centre or extensive modern infrastructure. Instead, its character comes from the combination of historic buildings and open countryside.

The surrounding area contains many places of historical interest, including Sherington, North Crawley, Chicheley, Newport Pagnell, Olney, Emberton, Gayhurst, Stoke Goldington, Lathbury, Tyringham and Filgrave.

For visitors interested in rural England, local history, traditional architecture, walking, genealogy and countryside landscapes, Astwood provides a peaceful and rewarding place to explore.

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1. Where Is Astwood?

Astwood is located in north Buckinghamshire, approximately five miles north-east of Newport Pagnell and around ten miles north-east of central Milton Keynes.

It is also relatively close to Bedfordshire.

The village occupies a predominantly rural setting.

Its surrounding landscape contains:

• Agricultural fields
• Pastures
• Hedgerows
• Mature trees
• Woodland
• Farmsteads
• Country lanes
• Small watercourses
• Historic settlements

This setting gives Astwood a distinctly rural atmosphere.

Although it is within the administrative area of Milton Keynes, visitors arriving from the city quickly notice the difference between the urban environment and the quiet agricultural countryside around Astwood.

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2. The Character of Astwood

Astwood has the appearance and atmosphere of a traditional English village.

Its historic buildings are scattered around a network of rural roads and lanes.

There is no large commercial centre dominating the settlement.

Instead, the village is characterised by:

• Historic houses
• Traditional cottages
• Farm buildings
• The parish church
• Gardens
• Mature trees
• Open countryside

The small scale of Astwood is one of its greatest attractions.

It offers a slower pace of life compared with nearby Milton Keynes.

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3. Origins of Astwood

Astwood has ancient origins.

The wider Buckinghamshire landscape has evidence of settlement dating back thousands of years.

Prehistoric communities used the fertile countryside for agriculture and settlement.

Roman activity also occurred throughout the region.

After the Roman period, Anglo-Saxon settlement became increasingly important.

Astwood's place-name and settlement history are connected with this early development of rural England.

Over time, the settlement became organised around agriculture, landownership and the parish.

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4. The Medieval Village

By the medieval period, Astwood was an established rural community.

The manor was an important part of local administration.

Landownership influenced almost every aspect of life.

The surrounding fields supported farming.

Villagers cultivated crops, raised animals and maintained agricultural land.

The medieval landscape probably consisted of a mixture of:

• Open arable fields
• Meadows
• Pasture
• Woodland
• Common land

The parish church provided the main religious centre.

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5. Medieval Agriculture

Agriculture was the foundation of Astwood's medieval economy.

Farmers depended on crops such as wheat, barley and other grains.

Livestock was also important.

Animals provided:

• Meat
• Milk
• Wool
• Leather
• Labour

Horses and oxen were particularly valuable for agricultural work.

Meadows were important because hay provided winter food for livestock.

The agricultural system required large numbers of workers.

This helped support a substantial rural population across the wider region.

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6. The Manor

The manor was central to the organisation of medieval Astwood.

The lord of the manor controlled significant amounts of land.

The manor could include:

• Farmland
• Pastures
• Woodland
• Farms
• Cottages
• Water resources

Manorial authority influenced land use and local administration.

Villagers had obligations connected with their land.

The manor therefore played an economic, social and political role.

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7. Astwood's Parish Church

The parish church is one of the most important historic buildings in Astwood.

St Peter's Church reflects the long religious history of the village.

Like many English parish churches, it contains evidence of different periods of construction and restoration.

Churches were rarely built once and left unchanged.

Over centuries, they were:

• Extended
• Repaired
• Restored
• Reorganised

Architectural features can therefore provide clues about the history of the community.

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8. The Importance of the Church

The church was much more than a place of worship.

For centuries, it was a central institution in village life.

It provided the setting for:

• Baptisms
• Weddings
• Funerals
• Memorial services
• Religious festivals
• Community gatherings

The churchyard also contains historical evidence.

Gravestones can preserve names, occupations and family relationships.

For genealogists, parish records can be extremely valuable.

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9. Religious Change

Astwood experienced the religious changes that transformed England from the sixteenth century onwards.

The Reformation changed the country's religious institutions.

Later developments created new denominations and patterns of worship.

The parish church nevertheless remained an important feature of community life.

Its continued presence demonstrates the long-term importance of the parish as a social institution.

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10. Architecture of Astwood

Astwood's architecture reflects its rural history.

Traditional Buckinghamshire buildings often use locally available materials.

These include:

• Brick
• Timber
• Clay tiles
• Stone
• Slate

Historic houses may contain features such as:

• Timber framing
• Traditional windows
• Brick chimneys
• Original roof structures
• Historic fireplaces
• Decorative brickwork

The architecture gives the village its visual identity.

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11. Traditional Cottages

Village cottages provide a glimpse into the lives of ordinary residents.

Historically, many cottages were occupied by agricultural labourers.

Others were home to craftsmen and tradespeople.

The size and design of a cottage could indicate the social and economic position of its occupants.

Many older homes have since been modernised.

Nevertheless, their external appearance may still preserve the character of earlier centuries.

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12. Farm Buildings

Agriculture produced a range of practical buildings.

These included:

• Barns
• Stables
• Granaries
• Cart sheds
• Workshops
• Animal shelters

Traditional farm buildings were designed around the needs of rural life.

Some have survived into the modern period.

Others have been converted into homes or other uses.

Their presence helps explain Astwood's agricultural history.

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13. Agriculture in Astwood

Agriculture remains central to the landscape.

For centuries, farming provided employment and food.

Important activities included:

• Grain cultivation
• Sheep farming
• Cattle keeping
• Hay production
• Dairy farming
• Orchard management

The village economy depended heavily on agricultural production.

Even occupations not directly connected with farming benefited from it.

Blacksmiths, carpenters, builders, wheelwrights and other tradespeople depended on farmers for work.

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14. Changes to Farming

Agriculture changed dramatically from the nineteenth century onwards.

Mechanisation reduced the need for manual labour.

Tractors replaced many traditional forms of animal-powered work.

Modern machinery increased productivity.

Farms could manage larger areas with fewer workers.

This contributed to population changes in many villages.

Astwood became less dependent on agricultural employment even though farming continued to shape the landscape.

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15. Enclosure

The enclosure of agricultural land changed the countryside.

Fields that had previously been managed collectively were divided into more clearly defined holdings.

Hedges became important boundaries.

This altered both the appearance and organisation of rural landscapes.

The hedgerows around Astwood therefore have historical significance as well as ecological importance.

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16. Hedgerows

Hedgerows are among the most valuable landscape features surrounding Astwood.

They provide:

• Wildlife habitat
• Shelter
• Field boundaries
• Nesting areas
• Food for insects and birds

They also connect different habitats.

A network of healthy hedges can function as a wildlife corridor.

Their preservation contributes to the ecological health of the countryside.

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17. The Countryside Around Astwood

The countryside is one of the village's greatest attractions.

The landscape consists largely of agricultural land.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Open views
• Fields
• Hedgerows
• Trees
• Country lanes
• Farm buildings
• Wildlife

The peaceful environment makes Astwood particularly suitable for people who prefer rural landscapes to busy tourist destinations.

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18. Walking

Walking is one of the best ways to experience Astwood.

Visitors can explore the village itself before continuing onto suitable public footpaths.

A countryside walk can reveal how the village connects to the surrounding landscape.

Walkers may encounter:

• Farmland
• Historic boundaries
• Wildlife
• Woodland
• Rural views
• Old tracks

Public rights of way should always be respected.

Some paths may become muddy after heavy rain.

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19. Cycling

The surrounding country roads provide opportunities for recreational cycling.

Astwood is located within a wider network of rural settlements.

Cyclists can travel between villages and enjoy the agricultural scenery.

Possible nearby destinations include:

• Sherington
• Newport Pagnell
• North Crawley
• Chicheley
• Olney
• Emberton

Cyclists should take care on narrow lanes and roads carrying faster traffic.

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20. Wildlife

Astwood's rural surroundings provide habitat for numerous species.

Common countryside wildlife can include:

• Rabbits
• Hares
• Foxes
• Badgers
• Hedgehogs
• Pheasants
• Kestrels
• Buzzards
• Owls
• Songbirds
• Butterflies
• Bees

The best opportunities for observing wildlife often occur during early morning and evening.

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21. Birds

The agricultural landscape supports a variety of bird species.

Birdwatchers may encounter:

• Robins
• Blackbirds
• Sparrows
• Blue tits
• Great tits
• Wrens
• Kestrels
• Buzzards
• Woodpeckers

Field margins and hedgerows are especially important.

Maintaining diverse habitats can support declining farmland species.

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22. Trees and Woodland

Mature trees contribute significantly to the appearance of Astwood.

They are found around:

• Homes
• Gardens
• Church grounds
• Roads
• Farms
• Field boundaries

Trees provide shade and shelter.

They also support insects, birds and small mammals.

Ancient or veteran trees can have particular heritage value.

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23. Astwood and the Great Ouse Region

Astwood forms part of the wider Great Ouse landscape.

The river system has influenced northern Buckinghamshire for centuries.

Its valleys and tributaries shaped agriculture, drainage and settlement.

Although Astwood is not directly a major riverside settlement, its surrounding landscape belongs to this broader geographical system.

The relationship between villages and river valleys is an important feature of Buckinghamshire's rural geography.

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24. Astwood and Newport Pagnell

Newport Pagnell is the nearest significant market town.

Historically, it served surrounding rural communities.

Today it provides a wide range of services.

These include:

• Shops
• Food outlets
• Healthcare
• Schools
• Professional services
• Community facilities
• Recreation

Astwood residents can therefore enjoy a rural lifestyle while remaining close to a town.

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25. Astwood and Milton Keynes

Astwood is part of the modern City of Milton Keynes administrative area.

Its connection with Milton Keynes is largely administrative and economic rather than architectural.

The village predates the development of Milton Keynes by centuries.

The creation and expansion of Milton Keynes transformed the wider area but did not erase many of its historic villages.

Astwood remains a rural settlement within this modern administrative landscape.

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26. Nearby Sherington

Sherington is one of the closest historic villages.

It has its own long history, parish church and traditional architecture.

The two settlements share the same broad agricultural environment.

Visitors interested in local history can easily explore both.

Together they provide a useful comparison of small Buckinghamshire villages.

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27. North Crawley

North Crawley lies nearby and provides another example of a historic rural settlement.

Its parish church, village architecture and agricultural landscape complement those of Astwood.

The villages demonstrate how numerous small communities developed across north Buckinghamshire.

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28. Chicheley

Chicheley is another nearby village.

It is particularly associated with Chicheley Hall and its historic estate.

Combining Astwood and Chicheley in a day of exploration provides an interesting contrast between small rural settlements and a country-house estate.

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29. Olney

Olney is one of the larger historic settlements in the area.

It has a stronger commercial centre and more extensive visitor facilities.

Its historic streets provide a useful contrast with the quieter character of Astwood.

Visitors can combine the two destinations for a broader understanding of the region.

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30. Education

Education has historically been connected with parish and village institutions.

Modern families in Astwood use schools in the surrounding area depending on age, admissions arrangements and catchment boundaries.

Newport Pagnell and Milton Keynes provide broader educational opportunities.

Parents considering a move should always verify current school arrangements.

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31. Local Services

Astwood is a small village.

Consequently, it does not have the extensive range of shops and services available in larger settlements.

Residents generally travel to nearby towns for:

• Major shopping
• Healthcare
• Banking
• Specialist services
• Entertainment
• Larger supermarkets

This is typical of rural Buckinghamshire.

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32. Transport

Road transport is particularly important.

Local roads connect Astwood with nearby villages and towns.

Cars provide convenient access to:

• Newport Pagnell
• Milton Keynes
• Bedford
• Olney
• Other surrounding settlements

Public transport is generally more limited than in urban areas.

Residents should check current routes and timetables before relying on buses.

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33. Employment

Historically, employment centred on agriculture.

Modern employment is much more diverse.

Residents may work in:

• Milton Keynes
• Newport Pagnell
• Bedford
• Northampton
• Cranfield
• Local businesses
• Professional services
• Agriculture
• Home-based businesses

The rise of remote working has further reduced the need for some residents to commute daily.

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34. Housing

Astwood contains traditional rural properties alongside more recent housing.

Historic properties may include:

• Cottages
• Farmhouses
• Converted agricultural buildings
• Traditional brick houses

These properties can be attractive because of their character.

However, older buildings may require greater maintenance.

Potential homeowners should consider:

• Building condition
• Insulation
• Energy efficiency
• Planning restrictions
• Parking
• Broadband
• Drainage

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35. Historic Buildings and Conservation

Conservation plays an important role in maintaining Astwood's identity.

Historic buildings contribute to the village's sense of place.

Preservation is especially important for:

• The parish church
• Historic cottages
• Farmhouses
• Traditional farm buildings
• Historic boundary features

Sensitive development can allow modern needs to be met without damaging the village's character.

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36. Village Life

Small villages have historically depended on strong community relationships.

Astwood's community life is connected to:

• The parish
• Local residents
• Church activities
• Village organisations
• Neighbouring communities

The small population can create a strong sense of familiarity.

At the same time, residents benefit from being close to larger towns.

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37. Village Events

Community events are valuable for maintaining local connections.

These may include:

• Church activities
• Seasonal celebrations
• Village gatherings
• Fundraising events
• Community meetings

The exact programme varies.

Visitors should check local information for current events.

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38. Social History

The story of Astwood is fundamentally a story about people.

Generations of residents worked in different occupations.

These included:

• Farmers
• Agricultural labourers
• Blacksmiths
• Carpenters
• Builders
• Domestic servants
• Teachers
• Shopkeepers
• Clergy

Their work sustained the village.

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39. Women in Astwood's History

Women made major contributions to rural life.

Their responsibilities could include:

• Household management
• Childcare
• Farming
• Dairy work
• Food preparation
• Cottage industries
• Community activities

Historical records increasingly allow researchers to understand these contributions.

Women were essential to the economic survival of rural households.

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40. Children in the Historic Village

Children traditionally became involved in family and agricultural responsibilities at a young age.

They might help with:

• Livestock
• Gardens
• Harvesting
• Household work

The expansion of formal education gradually changed childhood.

Today children experience the village differently, with greater emphasis on schooling and recreation.

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41. The Industrial Revolution

Astwood did not become an industrial settlement.

Agriculture remained its principal economic influence.

Nevertheless, industrialisation changed rural life indirectly.

Machinery improved agricultural productivity.

Manufactured products became widely available.

Transport improved.

People gained access to larger markets.

These changes gradually reduced the village's economic dependence on local production.

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42. Transport Changes

The development of better roads and later widespread car ownership transformed Astwood.

Residents could travel further.

Shopping no longer needed to be done entirely locally.

Employment opportunities expanded.

People could commute to towns.

This increased the village's connection with Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes and Bedford.

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43. Astwood in the Twentieth Century

The twentieth century brought rapid social and technological change.

Electricity, telephones, motor vehicles and modern household appliances transformed everyday life.

Agriculture became increasingly mechanised.

Traditional rural occupations declined.

Despite these changes, Astwood remained a small community surrounded by farmland.

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44. The World Wars

The World Wars had an impact on communities throughout Buckinghamshire.

Residents served in the armed forces.

Agricultural production became strategically important.

Food production was prioritised.

Rationing affected everyday life.

Village churches and community organisations supported residents.

Memorials and records preserve the memory of those who served and died.

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45. Modern Rural Life

Modern Astwood combines traditional surroundings with contemporary lifestyles.

Residents can benefit from:

• Digital communications
• Modern transport
• Online shopping
• Remote working
• Modern healthcare
• Nearby urban services

Yet the physical landscape remains predominantly rural.

This combination is an important reason people choose to live in villages such as Astwood.

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46. Environmental Issues

The countryside around Astwood faces many modern environmental challenges.

These include:

• Biodiversity loss
• Soil erosion
• Water management
• Climate change
• Agricultural pressures

Conservation of hedgerows, trees and wildlife habitats can help address these problems.

Sustainable farming practices can also protect the countryside for future generations.

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47. Water and Drainage

The wider Great Ouse region contains watercourses and areas vulnerable to heavy rainfall.

Drainage is therefore important.

Periods of intense rainfall can create pressure on:

• Fields
• Roads
• Streams
• Drainage systems

Residents and potential property buyers should consult current flood-risk information for individual locations.

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48. Sustainable Agriculture

Agriculture is likely to remain an important part of Astwood's future.

Sustainable farming can combine food production with environmental protection.

Potential measures include:

• Maintaining hedgerows
• Planting trees
• Protecting soil
• Creating wildlife margins
• Reducing unnecessary chemical use
• Improving water management

Such approaches can strengthen the resilience of the rural landscape.

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49. Astwood for History Enthusiasts

History enthusiasts will find several themes worth exploring.

These include:

• Anglo-Saxon settlement
• Medieval agriculture
• The manor
• Parish history
• Church architecture
• Traditional cottages
• Agricultural buildings
• Rural social history

The village provides an opportunity to explore history at a human scale.

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50. Astwood for Architecture Lovers

Architecture enthusiasts can study the relationship between ordinary houses and community buildings.

The parish church represents religious architecture.

Cottages demonstrate vernacular traditions.

Farm buildings illustrate agricultural requirements.

Later houses reveal changing tastes and lifestyles.

Together they create a record of architectural development.

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51. Astwood for Walkers

Walking is one of the simplest ways to appreciate the village.

A walk through Astwood can be combined with routes through surrounding fields.

The countryside provides changing views throughout the year.

Walkers may encounter:

• Wildlife
• Farm machinery
• Birds
• Mature trees
• Hedgerows
• Historic buildings

The experience is especially peaceful outside busy commuting periods.

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52. Astwood for Photographers

Photographers can find attractive subjects throughout the village.

Potential subjects include:

• St Peter's Church
• Traditional cottages
• Brick houses
• Farm buildings
• Country lanes
• Trees
• Fields
• Hedgerows
• Seasonal scenery

Spring and autumn are particularly attractive seasons.

Photographers should remain on public routes and respect private property.

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53. Astwood for Nature Lovers

Nature lovers can appreciate the combination of farmland and traditional landscape features.

Hedgerows, gardens and trees create small habitats.

Field margins can support wildflowers and pollinating insects.

Birdlife can be particularly interesting.

The wider countryside also offers opportunities to observe changing seasonal patterns.

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54. Genealogy and Family History

Astwood is potentially valuable for genealogical research.

Parish records can help identify:

• Births
• Baptisms
• Marriages
• Deaths
• Burials

Census records can reveal:

• Household members
• Occupations
• Ages
• Places of birth

Gravestones may provide additional information.

Historic maps can show where families lived.

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55. Historic Maps and Research

Historic maps can reveal how Astwood developed.

Researchers can compare different periods to identify:

• Former buildings
• Field boundaries
• Roads
• Farms
• Orchards
• Footpaths
• Ponds

This type of research can reveal changes that are not immediately obvious when walking through the modern village.

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56. Astwood as a Place to Live

Astwood may appeal to people looking for:

• Peace
• Rural scenery
• Historic character
• A small community
• Access to countryside
• Proximity to Milton Keynes

However, residents should be prepared for rural limitations.

These can include:

• Fewer shops
• Limited public transport
• Greater reliance on cars
• Fewer entertainment facilities
• Longer journeys for some services

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57. Astwood for Families

Families may appreciate the quiet surroundings.

The countryside provides opportunities for:

• Walking
• Cycling
• Wildlife observation
• Outdoor recreation

Nearby towns provide schools, sports and other activities.

Transport planning is therefore important.

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58. Astwood for Retirees

The peaceful environment can appeal to retirees.

The village offers opportunities for:

• Walking
• Gardening
• Photography
• Local history
• Community involvement

However, access to healthcare and shopping should be considered carefully.

Newport Pagnell and Milton Keynes offer broader services.

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59. Astwood for Remote Workers

The village can be attractive to people who work remotely.

Its quiet environment can provide a pleasant setting for home working.

However, digital connectivity is important.

Anyone considering moving to the area should verify broadband availability at the specific property.

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60. Nearby Attractions and Settlements

Astwood is surrounded by places worth exploring.

Sherington

A historic village with traditional architecture and a medieval parish church.

Newport Pagnell

A historic market town offering extensive services.

North Crawley

A rural village with a long history and traditional character.

Chicheley

Known for its country-house heritage.

Gayhurst

A small historic settlement with an important estate.

Stoke Goldington

A traditional village associated with the Great Ouse landscape.

Lathbury

A small historic settlement near the river.

Olney

A larger historic town with attractive streets and a lively centre.

Tyringham and Filgrave

Neighbouring rural communities with historic estates and countryside.

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61. A Suggested Day Trip

A countryside heritage day could begin in Astwood.

Start by exploring the village and parish church.

Continue on a suitable walking route through the surrounding countryside.

Afterwards, travel towards Newport Pagnell for lunch and shopping.

In the afternoon, explore Sherington or North Crawley.

Visitors with more time can continue towards Chicheley, Gayhurst or Olney.

This itinerary combines architecture, local history and rural landscapes.

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62. Best Time to Visit

Astwood is attractive in every season.

Spring

Fields become greener and wildflowers begin appearing.

Bird activity increases.

Summer

Long daylight hours make walking and cycling enjoyable.

Autumn

Trees and hedgerows take on rich colours.

Winter

The bare landscape highlights historic buildings and traditional architecture.

For walking, spring and summer may be the most comfortable.

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63. Why Astwood Matters

Astwood matters because it represents a part of Buckinghamshire that can easily be overlooked.

Large towns and modern developments often dominate discussions of the county.

Yet small villages preserve much of the historical structure of rural England.

Astwood demonstrates how communities can survive and adapt across centuries.

Its church, houses, fields and roads form a continuous historical landscape.

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64. Preserving Astwood's Character

The future of Astwood depends on maintaining its distinctive identity.

Important considerations include:

• Protecting historic buildings
• Maintaining rural views
• Preserving trees and hedgerows
• Supporting biodiversity
• Managing development carefully
• Maintaining community facilities

Preservation should not mean preventing all change.

Instead, new development should be appropriate to the scale and character of the settlement.

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65. The Future of Astwood

Astwood faces many of the same challenges as other rural communities near Milton Keynes.

Housing demand may increase.

Residents may seek improved transport and digital services.

Agriculture may continue to modernise.

Environmental concerns will become increasingly important.

The village must therefore balance:

• Modern living
• Heritage conservation
• Environmental protection
• Housing needs
• Agricultural requirements

The challenge is to allow Astwood to remain a living community rather than turning it into a purely historic display.

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Conclusion

Astwood is a small but fascinating historic village in Buckinghamshire. Its character has been shaped by centuries of agriculture, parish life, traditional architecture and close connections with the surrounding countryside.

The village's origins reach deep into the history of rural England. Its development through the medieval period was strongly influenced by the manor, agricultural land and the parish church.

St Peter's Church remains one of the most important reminders of this history. It represents the long religious and community traditions that helped structure village life.

The architecture of Astwood is equally significant. Traditional cottages, farmhouses, agricultural buildings and other historic structures illustrate how generations of residents lived and worked.

Agriculture remains visible throughout the surrounding landscape. Fields, hedgerows, mature trees and rural roads preserve the countryside framework that supported the village for centuries.

Astwood's modern identity is also influenced by its location. It is close enough to Newport Pagnell and Milton Keynes to benefit from their services and employment opportunities, while remaining sufficiently rural to retain a peaceful village atmosphere.

For visitors, Astwood is best explored slowly. A walk through the village followed by a countryside walk allows the relationship between buildings and landscape to become clear. The village is particularly rewarding for people interested in local history, architecture, genealogy, walking, photography, agriculture and rural England.

Its proximity to Sherington, North Crawley, Chicheley, Gayhurst, Stoke Goldington, Lathbury, Olney, Tyringham and Filgrave also makes it part of a much larger heritage landscape.

A journey through these settlements reveals the extraordinary variety of north Buckinghamshire. Each village has its own history, architecture and relationship with the countryside, yet all share a common heritage shaped by agriculture, parish institutions and centuries of rural life.

Astwood's greatest value lies in its authenticity. It is not a major tourist attraction, nor does it need to be. Its appeal comes from its peaceful setting, historic buildings and continuing connection with the countryside.

The village demonstrates how a small rural community can adapt to modern life while retaining the physical characteristics and traditions that connect it with the past.

For anyone exploring Buckinghamshire beyond the major towns, Astwood offers a quiet window into the county's rural history and an excellent starting point for discovering the wider countryside around Milton Keynes.