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Inhabited since Saxon times, the city lies along the ancient Roman Great North Road in the north central region of Hertfordshire. The Saxon settlement began with the construction of a church and manor house in the clearing of a wooded area. A village grew around this location. The remains of medieval and Roman artefacts were found in this general location and also a moated homestead. By 1086, the town moved down toward the Great North Road and received market charter in 1284. Thomas Alleyne established a boy's grammar school in the village during the year 1558.
The town grew slowly and by 1901 only had a population of slightly more than 4000 residents. The economic mainstay included travellers arriving into town who were headed to London or Ireland. Numerous coaching inns were established and by the 1700s, the Great North Road became a major turnpike. By 1800, the village received an average of 21 coaches daily. The local population began growing exponentially during the 1950s and 60s, as purposeful developments encouraged residents and industrial businesses to move into the area.
Activities and Attractions
Stevenage contains numerous cycling and walking paths including scenic trails in the ancient Whomerley Wood. The forest has centuries old trees and wildflowers, this location hosts six mounded hills, which presumably represent the ancient burial grounds of Roman families.
Within the city limits, cyclists also find specially designed tracks. The community contains carefully planned landscaping, complete with the Town Centre Gardens. The gardens occupy 3.85 hectares (9.5 acres) of ornamental shrubbery, trees and flowering perennials. Sections of the garden contains an oriental flavour while another appeals to all of the senses.
The Stevenage Museum houses collections that relay the history of the community from Roman occupancy and the formation of the New Town to the present day. Exhibits include ancient and historical artefacts used in daily living, agriculture and industry. The facility also contains geological and natural history exhibits.
Constructed in 1681, the Cromer Windmill's unique design includes blades that catch wind from opposite sides of the mill.
Enjoy comedy, music or a live theatrical production at the local Gordon Craig Theatre. The facility also contains a bar, a coffee house and a restaurant, with tickets for certain performances accompanied by meals.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests have many accommodation options in the city of Stevenage. Well known brand name chain hotels offer affordable prices. Facility conveniences include refreshment room trays and a hot/cold breakfast buffet.
The Outback Steakhouse is internationally known for its mouth watering cuts of steak that include Victoria's filet, New York Strip and Ribeye. The venue also offers a nice selection of starters, soups/salads and desserts.
Accommodation in Stevenage
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