In an old Charter relating to Fairs in the Parish of Edmonton it is directed that “Beggarsbush Fair,” which had been held near the King’s Head at Winchmore Hill from the time of King Edward III, should in future be held between the Edmonton Church and Fillcaps Gate. This latter was the name of one of the gates to Enfield Chase, which was at the top of Bush Hill, near the house now called Elmscott. No doubt Bush Hill takes its name from the Fair. The etymology of the name Winchmore Hill is very doubtful; it is said that at one time there was a winch and windlass to Vicarsmoor Well, and that was the origin; but this well was sunk in the 17^th century by a vicar of Edmonton, to give water to his parishioners on the Moor; and the village was known by its present title full three hundred years earlier.

For nearly a decade before its first sod was turned a railway through Winchmore Hill had been spoken of as a future contingency. “When the railway comes” and “If ever the railway comes” were phrases to be heard again and again. Various plans were discussed, but nothing came of them, and most people felt that they should not believe in it till they saw it.