Swanton Novers has an entry in the Domesday Book of 1086,[3] in which the village is recorded by the name Suanetuna. The main tenant was Bishop William. The survey also notes that there were 200 sheep. The name Suanetuna means 'town or settlement of the swine-herds'. The land was held by Milo de Nuiers in 1200. This name derives from Noyers-Bocage in Normandy.[4]
St Edmund's Church
St Edmund's parish church is a little remote from the village. The church has been heavily restored in recent times as it was in a very poor state of repair. The church's tower was rebuilt in 1821.[5] Much of the restoration work has been carried out using old building materials from the original church buildings which dates from Norman times.[6]
Freedom of the Parish
The following people and military units have received the Freedom of the Parish of Swanton Novers.