Rickmansworth's ancient parish boundaries stretched from Chorleywood in the north to Batchworth Heath in the south; and from West Hyde in the west to Cassiobridge in the east. The town of Rickmansworth was at the centre and the authors have encompassed the original parish in this account. Rickmansworth has always been influenced by its proximity to London. In earlier times it was no more than a day's journey by horse for the many royal and noble owners; today it is only half-an hour away by railway, and an attractive home for commuters.