Historically a village in its own right (many residents continue to refer to the area as a village), Bilton's name is derived from the Anglo-Saxon Beolatun (Beola's town), and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book as both Beltone and Bentone.

The parish Church of St. Mark in Bilton dates from the mid-14th century, but was expanded and restored in 1873.

[4] In the early 20th century, Bilton was enveloped by the suburban expansion of Rugby.

Bilton Hall in the old village is a grade I listed building, the earliest parts of which date from 1623.

Most of the local amenities in Bilton are clustered around Main Street and The Green, including a number of shops and businesses, a post office,[8] and two public houses; The Black Horse and The George.