The name "Shell" means 'Shelf'.[2] Shell was recorded in the Domesday Book as Scelves.[3] Shell was formerly an extra-parochial tract,[4] in 1858 Shell became a separate civil parish,[5] on 25 March 1884 the parish was abolished and merged with Himbleton.[6]
Shell Manor is Grade II* listed,[10] around it there is "Gate Piers And Front Wall to Shell Manor" which is Grade II listed,[11] "Former barn and granary about 27 metres south of Shell Manor" which is Grade II listed,[12] and "Barn About 35 Yards North-West of Shell Manor" which is also Grade II listed.[13]