Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Whittlesey has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Whittlesey.
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Sights in Whittlesey
Whittlesey is a town in the English county of Cambridgeshire, with a population of just over 11,000 people. It sits on the edge of the Cambridgeshire Fens, and has a history dating back to the AngloSaxon era. Whittlesey is known for its annual Straw Bear Festival, which sees a person dressed in a straw bear costume parade through the town.
There are a number of sights to see in Whittlesey, including the following:
The Whittlesey Straw Bear: The Straw Bear is a key figure in the town’s annual festival, and can be found on numerous buildings and landmarks around Whittlesey.
The Old River Nene: The Old River Nene runs through the town, and is a popular spot for walking, picnicking and fishing.
Whittlesey Manor: Whittlesey Manor is a historic building which dates back to the 14th century. It was once the home of Oliver Cromwell, and is now open to the public as a museum.
Canary Cottage: Canary Cottage is a thatched cottage which is over 400 years old. It is open to the public as a museum, and contains a collection of artefacts relating to the history of Whittlesey.
St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary’s Church is a grade I listed building, and is one of the most notable sights in the town. It dates back to the 12th century, and contains a number of important historical artefacts.
Whittlesey Town Hall: Whittlesey Town Hall is a Grade II listed building, and was built in 1885. It is now used as a museum and art gallery.
These are just some of the many sights to see in the town of Whittlesey. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, there’s something for everyone in this charming English town.
History of Whittlesey
The Fenland town of Whittlesey is situated in the county of Cambridgeshire, England. with a population of around 13,000. The town occupies an area of 3,854 acres and is 10 miles east of Peterborough, 30 miles north of Cambridge and 70 miles north of London. It is lowlying, with an average elevation of only 15 feet (4.6 m) above Mean Sea Level.
The history of human occupation in the Whittlesey area dates back to the Mesolithic period, with finds of flint tools having been made in the vicinity of Must Farm. This was followed by the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods, with evidence of settlements and burial sites being found in a number of locations around the town.
The first recorded mention of Whittlesey comes from the AngloSaxon Chronicle, which records that in 673 AD the town was known as Witesige. This is thought to mean “White Island”, referring to the fact that the surrounding area was largely marshland and the town itself was situated on an island of dry land.
The town’s name has changed several times over the centuries, to Witelesye (1086), Whytelegh (1219) andWhittlesea (1240). The current spelling of “Whittlesey” first appears in the late 13th century.
The town was granted a charter to hold a weekly market in 1227, and by 1240 it had also become a town with the right to elect a mayor.
During the Medieval period Whittlesey was an important trading centre, with its market and weekly fair being wellestablished. The town was also home to a number of religious institutions, including an Augustinian priory, a Knights Hospitaller hospital and a leper hospital.
In 1543, during the reign of Henry VIII, Whittlesey was visited by the plague. The disease claimed the lives of around 200 residents, approximately one sixth of the town’s population at that time.
The town’s fortunes declined in the 17th century, due in part to the effects of the English Civil War. In 1643 the Battle of Winceby was fought nearby, and in 1644 the town was sacked by Parliamentary troops.
The 19th century saw a period of growth for Whittlesey, with the coming of the railways in 1847 and the enlargement of the navigable River Nene in 1852 making the town more accessible. The construction of the drainage dykes in the Fens also created new opportunities for employment in the town.
The 20th century was a turbulent time for Whittlesey. In 1930 the town was hit by a serious earthquake, and during the Second World War it was the target of a number of German air raids. In 1947 the town was once again struck by disaster when a dyke burst, resulting in extensive flooding.
Despite these setbacks, Whittlesey has continued to grow and prosper, and today it is a thriving market town with a strong sense of community.
Vacation in Whittlesey
When it comes to vacationing in England, there are few places more picturesque and charming than the village of Whittlesey. Nestled in the heart of the Fenland region of the country, Whittlesey is a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by tourists from all over the world.
The village of Whittlesey actually dates back to the Bronze Age, and its history is steeped in tradition. Today, visitors to Whittlesey can explore its heritage through a number of different channels. The Fenland Folk Museum is a great place to start, as it houses a wealth of information on the area’s past. Local guided tours are also available, which are a great way to learn about the village’s unique history and architecture.
When it comes to accommodation, there are a number of different options available in and around Whittlesey. For those looking for a truly authentic experience, there are a number of quaint Bed and Breakfasts located in the village itself. Alternatively, for those looking for something a little more luxurious, there are a number of hotels located just a short drive away.
When it comes to things to do in Whittlesey, there is no shortage of options. For those interested in spending some time outdoors, there are a number of walking and cycling trails located around the village. For those preferring to stay indoors, there are a number of shops and restaurants to choose from.
So, if you’re looking for a hidden gem of a vacation destination, be sure to add Whittlesey to your list!
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