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Founded in the southeastern region of Hertfordshire, the town is thought to be one of the oldest continuosly inhabited destinations. Drawn to the location by the River Lea, humans occupied the area since Mesotlithic times, according to archaeological findings.
Some believe Ware was once a large Roman settlement as evidenced by the discovery of ancient buildings, a temple and two cemeteries in an area later called the Buryfield. This settlement was also strategically developed along Ermine Street, which was a main Roman thoroughfare between Lincoln and London.
The Danish invasion produced various pioneer towns along the river. King Alfred attempted to overthrow the Danes, but failed. Instead, he constructed fortifications on each side of the banks and diverted the waterflow, thus crippling Danish ships. Some believe the weirs the king created resulted in the new settlement's name. The community and population grew quickly and by 1078, Ware had five mills and a priory. In the next century, the heart of Ware would be established and remains much the same today. Between 1400 and 1700, numerous coaching inns developed to accommodate thoroughfare traffic and the evergrowing malting industry.
Activities and Attractions
Miles of paths take cyclists and walkers along the riverside, through country meadows and into wooded areas. Individuals seeking an unusual adrenaline rush might try aqua sphereing. The activity involves a large inflated ball measuring 3.6m (12 feet) in diameter, with an inner diameter measuring 1.8m (6 feet). Individuals enter the ball, which also contains 30 litres (7.9 gallons) of water. The sphere rolls down a hill while the occupants slip, slide and tumble. After guests regain balance and senses, they might trek into the countryside and explore Scott's Grotto. The unique structure has tunnels and chambers, which burrow over 18m (60 feet) into the hillside by a local poet during the late 1700s.
Another building of interest includes the St. Mary's Church. Over 1000 years old, the structure houses many ancient items. The original building was updated by King Henry's mother, Countess Margaret. The church also has ornamental gardens and a bronze statue commemorating the malting industry. The medieval friary lies just across the street. Strollng along the river, visitors encounter the many Victorian gazebos, also called summerhouses, constructed by the coaching inns during the 1700s as tourist attractions.
The local Ware Museum depicts the evolution of local history from prehistoric times to the present through numerous artefacts and displays.
Places to Stay and Dining
Enjoy fragrant gardens and beautiful views fo the water when staying in a local historic coaching inn. Bright and cheery interior decorating combined with old world structures provide a friendly, pleasant atmospere.
Taste the infusion of herbs and spices in the meals served at the Manolya Turkish restaurant. Choose from mixed kebabs to Chicken Tava or grilled lamb chops served with mixed vegetables or salad. Vegan meals include Vegetable Mussaka or Turlu.
Accommodation in Ware
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