Stanton ('homestead on stony ground') is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Stanton St John (from the family St John that held the manor in 1194) was acquired by New College in 1526. Twenty-one of the old stone and thatched cottages were burnt down in 1793. The parish extends from the modern Oxford City boundary to the Buckinghamshire border. The modern community is of some 350 people with 100 dwellings. There are fine views to Stanton Great Wood, Holly Wood and beyond to deeply rural Oxfordshire.
The church of St John is a fine Grade 1 listed building - the oldest part dating from 1200. The tower is 15th century. Rectory Farm House has a plaque commemorating the birth of John White, who was involved in the colonisation of Massachusetts in 1620. Manor Farm House, now The Old Manor, and outbuildings contribute to a remarkable street scene. More details are to be found in David Nutt's publication 'Stanton St John Village Trail'.
