Amberley Family History

From Amberley (Sussex), which is recorded as Ambrelie in 1086 and Aumberly in 1279, Amberley in Marden (Herefs) is also noted. This location is recorded as Amburlege in 1086 and Ambrelegh in 1316. Alternatively, there is Amberley in Minchinhampton (Gloucs), which is recorded as Amberley and Omberleia in the 13th century.

All three place-names probably derive from the Old English bird-name amer ‘bunting’ + lēah ‘open woodland’. This etymology connects the names to their natural surroundings, hinting at the presence of open woodlands where these birds may have thrived.