BESLEY

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Besley

The surname Besley is of English origin and is classified as a habitational name derived from a place called Beesley in Lancashire. The meaning of the name is believed to be "clearing where bees are kept," from the Old English words 'beo' (bee) and 'leah' (woodland clearing).

The Besley family name is predominantly found in the West Country of England, particularly in areas such as Devon and Cornwall. The surname has been recorded in various spellings over the centuries, including Beesley, Beasley, Beazley, and Bezley.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Besley include pioneers, scholars, and professionals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. The Besley name reflects a legacy of hard work, innovation, and resilience that has endured through generations.

The Besley family name forms part of the rich tapestry of British surnames, each one telling a unique story of ancestry and heritage.

There are approximately 456 people named Besley in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Besley.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Adrian
Christopher
Cliff
David
Glen
Ian
John
Michael
Nicholas
Paul
Peter
Philip
Stephen

Female

Caroline
Dorothy
Eleanor
Elspeth
Emma
Erica
Evett
Jacqueline
Karen
Kate
Linda
Patricia
Sarah
Susan
Victoria

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.