Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Hungerford has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Hungerford.
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Sights in Hungerford
Hungerford is a historic market town in Berkshire, England, with a population of around 5,000. It is situated on the banks of the River Kennet, in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The town has a long history, dating back to the 11th century when it was founded by the Saxons. Hungerford was granted a charter by King Richard I in 1199, making it a market town.
The town has a number of historic buildings and attractions, including the medieval church of St. Lawrence, the hungerford Lock on the river Kennet, and the 18thcentury town hall.
The Hungerford area is home to a number of scientific and engineering businesses, as well as some hightech startups. The town is also popular with tourists, who come to visit the historic sites and enjoy the countryside.
The sights of Hungerford include:
The Church of St. Lawrence: This Saxon church dates back to the 11th century and is one of the earliest churches in Berkshire. It is built of flint and limestone and has a Norman tower.
The Town Hall: This 18thcentury building was once the home of the Hungerford family. It is now used as a venue for events and functions.
The Hungerford Lock: This lock was built in 1788 and is one of the first locks on the River Kennet. It is still in use today and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
The North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: This area of outstanding natural beauty covers some of the most scenic countryside in England. It includes rolling hills, woodlands, meadows, and rivers.
History of Hungerford
The town of Hungerford in West Berkshire, England, has a long and varied history dating back to AngloSaxon times. The town’s name is derived from the Old English word for ‘hungry ford’, referring to a ford across the River Kennet which was said to be particularly difficult to cross when the river was in flood.
The first record of Hungerford dates from 932 AD, when King Athelstan granted land in the area to his loyal thegn (or thane) Wulfgar. Wulfgar and his successors were responsible for the development of the town, and by the time of the Domesday Book in 1086 it was a prosperous settlement with a market, a mill and around 100 houses.
The next few centuries were relatively quiet ones for Hungerford, although it was ravaged by both the Black Death and the Great Fire of London in the 14th and 17th centuries respectively. In the 18th century, the town became known for its connection to the South Sea Bubble financial scandal, while in the 19th century it became a major staging post on the coaching routes between London and the West Country.
The coming of the railways in the 19th century brought further changes to Hungerford, which grew in size and importance as a result. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its attractive countryside setting and its many historical buildings and monuments.
Vacation in Hungerford
Hungerford is a charming town in the heart of the English countryside with a rich history and a wide range of vacation possibilities. The town is situated on the River Kennet, and its name comes from the AngloSaxon for “hungerford,” or “hungerpath.”
The town has a long history dating back to the Roman occupation of Britain, and its name appears in the Domesday Book. There are a number of historic buildings in the town, including the Grade I listed St. Lawrence’s Church and the medieval Market Cross.
The town is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with a number of footpaths and cycle trails crisscrossing the area. The Kennet & Avon Canal runs through the town, and there are several boat hire companies offering trips along the canal.
Hungerford is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hungerford Dog Show, the Hungerford food and drink festival, and the Christmas market.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break in the countryside or a base for exploring the area, Hungerford is an ideal destination.
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