BASSINGBOURNE, a parish in the hundred of ARMINGFORD, county of CAMBRIDGE, Similes (isr.w. by N.) from Royston, containing, with the hamlet of Kneesworth, 1213 inhabitants. The living is a vicarage, in the archdeaconry and diocese of Ely, rated in the king's books at £7. 0. 10., and in the patronage of the Dean and Chapter of Westminster. The church is dedicated to St. Peter. A room adjoining the north aisle has been appropriated to the reception of a parochial library, founded in 1717, by Edward Nightingale. A fair is held on the festival of St. Peter and St. Paul. There is an endowment of about £ 13 per annum for the instruction of poor children.