The lost village of Stenning, or Estovening, mentioned in Domesday book of 1806 is represented by the site of the moated Estovening Hall, which was the manor house of the Holland family. Ralph, founder of the Estovening Branch of the Holland family was buried in Swinehead Abbey in 1262.[6]
A medieval motte castle is believed to have been constructed in the 12th century by the de Gresley family, lords of the manor of Swineshead at Manwar Ings. The remains of the castle are visible as substantial earthworks, which are a scheduled monument.