Origins of the name 'Bayswater'

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In the periodical Notes and Queries, No. 11, it is shown that Bainiardus, who gave his name to Baynard's Castle, held land of the Abbot of Westminster in the area. In a grant as late as 1653 the land is described as "the common field at Paddington" (now Bayswater Field) and as being "near to a place commonly called Baynard's Watering."

It concludes "that this portion of ground, always remarkable for its springs of excellent water, once supplied water to Baynard, his household, or his castle; that the memory of his name was preserved in the neighbourhood for six centuries". This watering-place became known as Bayswater and the area is still known by this name today.

Next page: Matilda the Fair

• Baynard's Castle - Introduction
• 1 - What did Castle Baynard look like?
• 2 - Origins of the name 'Bayswater'
• 3 - Matilda the Fair
• 4 - Fitzwalter and King John
• 5 - The Fitzwalter Privileges
• 6 - Destroyed by Fire and Rebuilt
• 7 - Richard III
• 8 - Notable Visitors of Baynard's Castle