But the village origins go back even earlier for, being near the Fosse Way, this area was settled by scattered Roman villas, often lands given to retired soldiers. The foundations of a Roman villa, as well as metal-lined tombs, have been found within the village boundaries.

The origins are typically agricultural: cider and cider mills played their parts. Two inns once had an important role along the main road, as well as the many (less salubrious) drinking outlets which served quarrymen's needs! Teazles were grown commercially for the cloth trade in nearby Shepton. Gloving, cobbling and straw-hat making were also to be found. Pigs, chickens, sheep and cows are still reared.

Flour was ground in water mills at the bottom of Combe Hill, from the C14th, and a windmill stood proud on the road to Somerton, on Windmilll Hill.