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Dunstable is an ancient market town in Bedfordshire, England. It is 30 miles north of London at the foot of the Chiltern Hills.
History of Dunstable
The first town built at the location where Dunstable is today was begun by the Romans in the 2nd Century. It was started as a posting station for travellers to rest or change their horses. The little market town grew up around this posting station. When the Romans left Britain in the 5th century, Durocobrivis, as it was called, was deserted.
Though abandoned for years, the location was at a crossroads and a perfect spot for a new town. King Henry I created the new town of Dunstable in 1109. He attracted people to the town with the promise that anyone living there would have the same rights and privileges as those living in London.
The little town began to flourish with its new inhabitants and with the help of the market that sprang up there and the regular fairs that brought people in to buy and sell goods. Eventually, a royal residence and a priory were built. The priory attracted pilgrims to see holy relics, and with them came their money. Four hundred years later the Priory church was the site of Henry VIIIs divorce from Catherine of Aragon.
Culture
Dunstable's main arts centre is the Grove Theatre, which is home to not just local but many national productions. The people of Dunstable can also see dramatic performances year round at the Little Theatre.
Attractions and Places of Interest
Priory Church of St. Peter that was built in the early 12th century and is an example of Norman architecture with its wood carvings, medieval brass. The monuments inside as well as the stained glass are from the 18th century. Besides being the site of Henry's annulment, it has seen many historical events, like the Peasant's Revolt and the civil war.
The Dunstable Downs, which is part of the Chiltern Hills, outside of town are the highest point in this part of England at 801 feet. From the top there are spectacular views of all of Bedforshire and the Vale of Aylesbury. The Downs were made 70 million years ago when chalk was deposited at the bottom of the sea. Dunstable Downs are known for kite flying, picnicking, and hiking along the many miles of paths. Ancient burial mounds can be found in the Downs as well as a variety of plants and animal life.
Dunstable is also home to the Whipsnade Zoo and the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral where several different types of trees were planted in the pattern of a traditional cathedral.
Shopping
From the 1960s to the mid '80s Dunstable maintained some its history as a market town and catered to small, independent shops. However, as retails centres grew up in the outlying areas, the market centre in Dunstable has suffered. There are few independent stores remaining.
Getting Around Dunstable
The heart of the transportation infrastructure in Dunstable is the A5, which runs north and south. The M1 motorway accessed in nearby Luton.
There are two bus companies that operate in Dunstable. There is no longer any railway connection in the town.
Accommodation in Dunstable
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