Location and what to do locally
Ashwell is the perfect place to unwind, savour the history and enjoy walking. It dates back to the tenth century with evidence of the artefacts in the museum which is open on Sunday’s and bank holiday’s. The village was once a thriving market town and this brought wealth and prosperity. This is reflected in the quality of a number of the medieval buildings. In the 19th century three industries grew and again changed the population of Ashwell. The industries where brewing, coprolite digging and straw plaiting and this bought a population growth. There are many interesting buildings in Ashwell ranging from the museum itself, the lock up, Fordham’s brewery, the Lychgate, Mills, numerous pubs, the Church, chapels and houses of all ages and periods.
There are many great walks around Ashwell and the surrounding countryside or you can venture further a field to the historical city of Cambridge and punt along the “backs” or indulge in a spot of shopping.
If the history and walking are not what you are looking for and you require great food, great wines and maybe some relaxation. We are dog friendly in the public bar so feel free to bring your dog in and have a drink or eat. We will always supply fresh water for your best friend!
Other attractions outside the village:
HATFIELD HOUSE: The original Palace here was completed in 1497 for Bishop Morton
of Ely. After the dissolution it became a royal residence, but James l exchanged
it for the home of Robert Cecil lst Earl of Salisbury. The remains of the
Palace, including the banqueting hall, still stand in the west gardens. In 1607
Salisbury asked Robert Lyminge to design a new house. This Jacobean building
kept to the usual E-plan of Elizabethan Houses and was completed in 1611. In
size it is impressive - it is nearly 300ft long by 150ft wide. The wings are
wide and have square turrets at each corner. Still the home of the Cecil family
it contains fine portraits including the Rainbow portrait of Elizabeth l by
Zucchero, and manuscripts and relics of her. There are fine gardens and an
extensive park.
KNEBWORTH HOUSE: The Victorian Statesman and romantic novelist Sir Edward Bulwer-
Lytton (1st Lord Lytton) who wrote The Last Days of Pompeii, succeeded to this
property in 1843. He lived here until his death in 1873 and was visited by
Disreali, Charles Dickens and other literary friends. The house was begun in
1492 by Sir Robert Lytton; it was partly demolished in 1812, but the Tudor great
hall survives. The exterior was redecorated in Gothic style by the 1st Lord
Lytton in 1843. The house, set in fine gardens, contains 17th and 18th century
furniture, portraits and relics and manuscripts of Bulwer-Lytton.
OLD WARDEN AERODROME: Shuttleworth collection. A collection of historic
aeroplanes, cars, bicycles and carriages. The aviation exhibits range from a
genuine Bleriot of 1909, several First World War and inter-war types, both civil
and military, to the Hurricane and Spitfire. Also on display are aero-engines,
propellers, instruments and other related equipment. Most of the aeroplanes are
in flying condition and they are demonstrated on special open days.
WHIPSNADE WILD ANIMAL PARK: Europe's largest conservation park set in 600 acres
of glorious countryside high on the Dunstable Downs. They have over 3,000
animals in large open paddocks, offering a unique chance to see some of the
world's rarest species in natural surroundings. Getting around is easy - take
your car, use the free roadtrain or wander at your leisure - the choice is
yours. Whipsnade is a great day out for all ages.
SHEPRETH ZOO - Shepreth Wildlife Sancturay at Watersmill began in 1979 as a refuge for injured and orphaned British birds and mammals. Since then it has grown to become one of East Anglia’s major places of interest, with a wide variety of wildlife to see, from monkeys and tigers to giant fish which feed from your hands. Great for all age groups and open all year round.
DUXFORD
CAMBRIDGE:
Being one of
England's
principal university towns it offers a wealth of history and culture, too much
to describe in a few lines. It offers a very extensive modern shopping area and
nightlife of every description to cater for the needs and taste of all ages.
You can have a superbly relaxing break, a romantic weekend and also have the chance to experience a wide range of activities.
Location map
6 The High Street
Ashwell
Herts
SG7 5NL
Telephone: 01462 742107
Fax: 01462 743662
E-Mail: info@tuns.co.uk
Website:
www.tuns.co.uk