The area round Abbotts Ann and Little Ann has been settled by man since at least 50BC when the forests that covered this area were cleared for cultivation. The name is believed to derive from a Celtic word meaning "Ash tree stream" - the present Pilhill Brook.
 
The area has some of the most attractive thatched cottages in this part of England. If you visit St Mary's Church look for the 'Virgins' Garlands', which accompanied to the grave a maid or a youth who led an unspotted life and died before they were married. St Mary's is thought to be one of the last churches to end this practice, which at one time was common in our countryside.
 
Borough Council:  Abbotts Ann is in the Anna Ward for Test Valley Borough Council.
Borough Councillors: Maureen Flood and Graham Stallard
 
County Council: Abbotts Ann is in the Test Valley Central division.
County Councillor: Andrew Gibson