Development and improvements to the village of Esholt occurred in 18th or early 19th century and many of the estate dwellings within the village date from this period. The church of St Peter, the  Church School, and Wesleyan Chapel were built around the mid-19th century. Money to build the school was donated by the WRC Stanfield and a plaque, with the initials WRCS 1836, above the door bears witness to his generosity. Many brides who were married at Esholt  will have passed through this lichgate on their way to the little church of St. Peter which is just along the path.