Boroughbridge

Boroughbridge

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The details provided below have been meticulously researched through both online sources and library references. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that perspectives may differ among various people. If you come across any inaccuracies, omissions, or have additional insights to contribute, please feel free to contact us at ian.barlow@harrogateuk.co.uk

The details provided below have been meticulously researched through both online sources and library references. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that perspectives may differ among various people. If you come across any inaccuracies, omissions, or have additional insights to contribute, please feel free to contact us at ian.barlow@harrogateuk.co.uk

No matter how familiar you are with the area, we continually offer fresh and exciting content. Whether it’s the latest news, up-to-the-minute weather and travel updates, new hotels, restaurants, captivating attractions, or upcoming events, you’ll discover it all right here., England, has an enchanting blend of historical allure and modern vibrancy. Situated 16 miles northwest of York, it holds a unique place in history, owing to its location on the former main A1 Road, the highway connecting London to Edinburgh.

Boroughbridge

Historical Significance

The town’s name, ‘Boroughbridge,’ traces its origin to its proximity to Aldborough, the primary settlement during the Roman era, known as Isurium Brigantum. In the past, Dere Street, a Roman road heading north from York, used to cross the River Ure just north of Aldborough. However, at some point, this route was redirected to cross the river at Boroughbridge. The earliest mention of Boroughbridge dates back to 1155 in Latin as “pontem de Burgo” and by 1298 in English as “Burghbrig,” signifying “the bridge near Burgh or Aldborough.”

Notable historical landmarks include the Devil’s Arrows, a series of three menhirs or standing stones believed to date back to the Bronze Age. These stones, the tallest of which reaches 22 feet, stand as a testament to the region’s ancient past.

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Medieval Heritage

Throughout its history, Boroughbridge experienced significant events, such as the devastating Scottish invasion led by Sir James Douglas in 1318 following the Capture of Berwick upon Tweed. In 1322, the Battle of Boroughbridge marked a crucial point in the Despenser War of 1321–22, as King Edward II triumphed over Thomas, Earl of Lancaster.

A Hub on the Great North Road

Boroughbridge played a pivotal role as a stop for stagecoaches due to its strategic location on the Great North Road, midway between London and Edinburgh. An advertisement from 1754 illustrates the importance of this route for travellers between the two great cities.

Modern Upgrades and Transitions

Boroughbridge has undergone changes in recent times, including the collapse of the bridge carrying the A1 Road in 1945, leading to a temporary disruption in transportation. The town’s transition from the West Riding to North Yorkshire in 1974 marked a significant administrative change.

In more recent years, Boroughbridge’s sewage works underwent an upgrade in 2011, enhancing its capacity and environmental performance, underscoring the town’s commitment to modern infrastructure and sustainability.

Today, Boroughbridge continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of history and contemporary charm. The town’s vibrant High Street, scenic walks by the River Ure, and numerous points of historical interest make it a place that beckons travellers to explore its rich tapestry of past and present.

Boroughbridge History

The origin of the name ‘Boroughbridge’ can be traced back to its proximity to Aldborough, the main settlement during the Roman period known as Isurium Brigantum. Originally, Dere Street, the Roman road heading north from York, crossed the River Ure just north of Aldborough. However, at an unknown date, the road was redirected to cross the river at Boroughbridge. The first mention of the place dates back to 1155 in the Latin form “pontem de Burgo” and by 1298 in the English form “Burghbrig” (‘the bridge near Burgh or Aldborough’). As a result of this relocation, a new town flourished at the bridge, while the Old Town became known as ‘Ald-Borough.’

Early History: Devil’s Arrows Boroughbridge boasts a line of three menhirs, or standing stones, known as the Devil’s Arrows, believed to have been erected during the Bronze Age. Situated on the outskirts of Boroughbridge, alongside the A1, the tallest stone reaches a height of 22 feet. Composed of millstone grit, likely quarried from Plompton, these stones align almost north–south, with the central stone slightly offset. The first mention of these stones dates back to 1694 in the journal of a fisherman named Peter Frankck, who claimed to have seen seven stones. However, the antiquarian John Leyland verified the presence of four stones, with the absent fourth stone excavated and broken up by treasure hunters. Tradition suggests that the top of the fourth stone can be found in the grounds of Aldborough Hall, situated between Boroughbridge and Aldborough.

Medieval History: Although not documented in the Domesday Book, Boroughbridge was later described as part of the manor of Aldborough. In 1229, as part of the manor of Aldborough, it was granted to Hubert de Burgh but later forfeited by his son after fighting against the king at the Battle of Evesham. Subsequently, Boroughbridge became a royal manor until Charles I granted it to several citizens of London. The year 1318 witnessed devastation in Boroughbridge by the Scots under Sir James Douglas following the Capture of Berwick upon Tweed.

In 1322, the significant Battle of Boroughbridge unfolded as King Edward II triumphed over Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, marking the end of Edward II’s reprisal against those who had opposed him in the Despenser War of 1321–22.

The origin of the name ‘Boroughbridge’ lies in its location relative to Aldborough, the principal settlement during the Roman period and known as Isurium Brigantum. Dere Street, the Roman road heading north from York, originally crossed the River Ure just north of Aldborough, but at an unknown date the road was diverted to cross the river at Boroughbridge. The place was first mentioned in 1155 in the Latin form pontem de Burgo and by 1298 in the English form Burghbrig (‘the bridge near Burgh or Aldborough. A new town grew up at the bridge and the Old Town became known as the ‘Ald-Borough’. Early Devil’s Arrows A line of three menhirs, or standing stones, known as the Devil’s Arrows, believed to have been erected in the Bronze Age, can be found on the outskirts of Boroughbridge, by the side of the A1. The tallest stone is 22 feet tall. The stones are of millstone grit, probably quarried from Plompton, the closest source of this material. The stones stand on an almost north–south alignment, with the central stone slightly offset. The first reference to the stones is from the journal of a fisherman, Peter Frankck, who visited Boroughbridge in 1694 and claims he saw seven stones. The antiquarian John Leyland saw four stones, which is the verifiable number. The absent fourth stone stood close to the central stone and was dug out and broken up, allegedly by treasure hunters. Most of it was used to build Peg Bridge, which crosses the River Tutt as it enters the town. According to tradition the top of the fourth stone was to be found in the grounds of Aldborough Hall, which stands between Boroughbridge and Aldborough. Medieval Boroughbridge was not mentioned in Domesday Book but was later described as part of the manor of Aldborough. In 1229 Boroughbridge, as part of the manor of Aldborough, was granted to Hubert de Burgh, but was forfeited a few years later by his son, who fought against the king at the Battle of Evesham. It then remained a royal manor until Charles I granted it to several citizens of London. In 1318 Boroughbridge was devastated by the Scots under Sir James Douglas following the Capture of Berwick upon Tweed. In 1322 the Battle of Boroughbridge took place as King Edward II overpowered Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, bringing about the end of Edward II’s retaliation against those who had opposed him in the Despenser War of 1321–22.

Boroughbridge’s rich history and strategic location on the Great North Road between London and Edinburgh have shaped its significance over the centuries. From its medieval ties to the parish of Aldborough to its later status as a parliamentary borough, Boroughbridge has witnessed political changes and played a vital role in the transportation network.

During medieval times, Boroughbridge was part of the parish of Aldborough in the West Riding of Yorkshire. Its transition to a parliamentary borough in 1553 marked a political era, electing two Members of Parliament to the unreformed House of Commons. The borough’s unique burgage franchise, linking voting rights to property ownership, persisted until the Reform Act of 1832.

Controlled by the Dukes of Newcastle, Boroughbridge served as a pocket borough. Notably, Augustus FitzRoy, the 3rd Duke of Grafton and Prime Minister, was elected MP for Boroughbridge in 1756 but chose to represent Bury St Edmunds instead.

Boroughbridge’s High Street became a crucial stage for stagecoaches, benefiting from its strategic position on the Great North Road. The town’s significance in transportation is highlighted by an 18th-century advertisement for a new, genteel two-end glass coach machine.

In 1866, Boroughbridge became a separate civil parish, absorbing Aldborough and Minskip in 1938. The collapse of the A1 road bridge in 1945, under the weight of a heavy vehicle, briefly disrupted the main transport route, requiring the installation of a temporary Bailey bridge by the army.

The town underwent administrative changes in 1974, transferring from the West Riding to the newly formed county of North Yorkshire. It remained part of the Borough of Harrogate until 2023.

In recent times, Boroughbridge’s commitment to infrastructure is evident in the 2011 upgrade of its sewage works. The modernization included replacing outdated bar screens with wire-mesh drum screens, improving waste filtration, and upgrading settling and humus tanks to meet stringent environmental standards set by the Environment Agency.

Boroughbridge continues to evolve, blending its historical significance with modern infrastructure upgrades, ensuring its place as a key town in the region.

Boroughbridge

Yorkshire Heart Vineyard & Brewery – Visit the website at https://yorkshireheart.com/

Location: Near Nun Monkton village, between York and Harrogate.

Yorkshire Heart is a family-run vineyard and brewery that has earned numerous awards. Situated in the picturesque countryside between York and Harrogate, this vineyard is meticulously tended to by a passionate team dedicated to producing wines beloved by many throughout YBoroughbridge

What to Enjoy:

Our Wines: Over 22,000 vines are nurtured by our wine specialists to create a range of fine English wines, including red, white, rose, varietal, and sparkling options.

Craft Beers: Established in 2011, the Yorkshire Heart Brewery produces delightful pilsners, ales, and stouts using high-quality local malts and hops.

Tours & Events: If you’re a wine enthusiast, don’t miss the vineyard tour and tasting, a perfect way to sample our award-winning Yorkshire wines while learning about the grape-to-glass process.

For more details, visit Yorkshire Heart’s website.

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Boroughbridge

Aldborough Roman Site Location: Aldborough

Aldborough was once the ‘capital’ of the Romanized Brigantes, the largest tribe in Britain during that era. Explore a corner of these Yorkshire defences set amid a Victorian arboretum and view two original mosaic pavements. The site’s fascinating museum boasts an exceptional collection of Roman artifacts, providing a glimpse into 1,800 years of history.

Key Features:

On-Site Museum

Roman Mosaics

Roman and Post-Roman Archaeological Finds

Section of the Original Town Wall

No advance ticket booking is required, but for the best price and guaranteed entry, consider booking online. Members can also book, and their entry is free.

For more information, visit English Heritage’s Aldborough Roman Site page.

Boroughbridge

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The Butter Market Museum Location: Hall Square, Boroughbridge

The Butter Market, an open-fronted building dating back to the 18th or early 19th century, provides a glimpse into local history. It was initially constructed to offer shelter to farmers’ wives on market days as they sold dairy products, hence the name. The museum, initiated by the Town Council, features locally made or used artifacts, generously loaned or donated by the public.

Highlights:

Range of Exhibits: From an early 19th-century bread oven to railway memorabilia and local dairy equipment.

Free Entry: View the exhibits during daylight hours with informative display boards explaining each item’s origin and purpose.

Fresh exhibits are always welcome, so if you have something of local interest, consider contributing.

For more details, visit The Butter Market Museum’s page.

Explore Boroughbridge

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Boroughbridge Tourist Information Office: Location: 1 Hall Square, Boroughbridge

Hours of Operation: The office operates with varying hours, accommodating different seasons. During the summer, dedicated volunteers are available, while the Town Council staff is on hand to assist during the winter. The Visitor and Community Information Centre is committed to providing valuable services to enhance your visit.

Summer Schedule (Easter to October half term):

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Winter Schedule:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
• Closed on Saturdays

For assistance, reach out to info@boroughbridge.org.uk or call 01423 322956.

Boroughbridge

Shopping in Boroughbridge: A Timeless Experience

Discover a charming and traditional shopping experience in Boroughbridge, where merchants prioritize exceptional service. Explore these noteworthy stores:

• Hardware Store: Boroughbridge Hardware Ltd, Horsefair, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AA Contact: 01423 323584
• Gourmet Grocery Shop: FINK, 14 High St, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AO Contact: 01423 324188
• Clothing Store: Espada Boutique Ltd, St James Square, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AR Contact: 01423 323168
• Shoe Shop: Clippity Clops Shoes Ltd, 38 High St, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AW Contact: 01423 323785
• Ladies Clothing Store: Claremarie, 1 Horsefair, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AA Contact: 01423 322140
• Butcher: Greenwood Butchers, 6 Horsefair, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AA Contact: 01423 322248
• Baker: Havenhands The Bakers, 8 St. James Square City Centre, Boroughbridge, YO51 9AR Contact: 01423 322432

For more information about these attractions, contact ian.barlow@harrogateuk.co.uk.

Boroughbridge