Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Potton has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Potton.
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Sights in Potton
Potton is a small town in Bedfordshire, England, situated on the River Great Ouse. The town has a long history dating back to the Roman era, when it was known as Porchester. The town’s name derives from the Old English potting, meaning a place where pots or pottles were made.
Today, Potton is a thriving market town with a bustling high street and a lively community. The town is home to a number of independent shops selling everything from clothes and cosmetics to books and homeware. There is also a weekly farmer’s market which sells fresh local produce.
The town’s iconic clock tower, which stands at over 100 feet tall, dominates the skyline and is a popular landmark. Potton also has a number of historic buildings including the Grade I listed Church of St Mary the Virgin and the 14th century Potton Hall.
Despite its small size, Potton has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s history, do some shopping or simply enjoy a bite to eat, Potton is well worth a visit.
History of Potton
The small town of Potton is located in the county of Bedfordshire, England. Its history dates back to the AngloSaxon era when it was known by the name Pottan ēa, meaning ‘river with a cross on a pot’. This name referred to a large pot which was used as a boundary marker between the kingdoms of Mercia and East Anglia.
The first record of the town’s name dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086 where it appears as Potten. By the 13th century, the town’s name had evolved into Potton.
The town’s market charter was granted by King John in 1214. The market was held every Tuesday and was originally situated in the centre of the town. It later moved to its current location on the High Street.
Potton’s Church of All Saints dates back to the 12th century. The present building was constructed in the 14th century and contains a number of interesting features, including a 15thcentury carved wooden screen.
The town’s grammar school was founded in 1562 by Queen Elizabeth I. The school continued to operate until 1926 when it merged with another local school.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Potton was an important centre for the production of bricks and tiles. There were numerous brickyards and tileworks in the town, many of which have since been demolished.
The coming of the railways in the 19th century had a significant impact on Potton. The town became a junction point for several different railway lines and Potton railway station was opened in 1857.
The Great Northern Railway opened a new line through Potton in 1866 which linked the town to Sandy and Cambridge. This new line made Potton more accessible to commuters and resulted in an increase in population.
Today, Potton is a thriving small town with a population of just over 6000. Despite its small size, the town has a number of shops, supermarkets, pubs and restaurants. There is also a active community with a number of clubs and societies.
Vacation in Potton
Potton is a bustling market town in the heart of Bedfordshire, England. Just an hour from London by train, Potton is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With its quaint shops and Georgian architecture, Potton feels like a step back in time.
There are plenty of things to do in Potton. The Potton Arboretum is a mustsee for nature lovers, with its collection of over 200 rare and endangered trees from around the world. For history buffs, the John Bunyan Museum tells the story of the famous author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, who was born in the nearby village of Elstow.
Potton is also the perfect base for exploring the rest of Bedfordshire. Just a short drive away is the pretty town of Ampthill, with its medieval castle, and Woburn Abbey, home to the Duke of Bedford. For something truly unique, pay a visit to the ZSL Safari Park in nearby Woburn, where you can see lions, tigers, and elephants up close.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed country getaway or a base for exploring the region, Potton has something for everyone.
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