Cambridgeshire - The Fens
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The FensThe unique fenlands in the north and east of Cambridgeshire area a landscape characterised by vast flat areas of artificially-drained land, reclaimed from its original marsh state, wide views and an open skyscape. The absence of hills results in glorious sunsets. The reclamation of rich alluvial land for agriculture by systematic drainage began long ago; the first attempts being made in Roman and medieval times. In 1630 Charles I granted the fourth Earl of Bedford a charter enabling successful drainage by the Dutch engineer Cornelius Vermuyden. As a result 300,000 acres of fen where converted to some of the most fertile agricultural land in England. Works of drainage and the construction of defences against inundation by the sea have continued and improved ever since. Pumps were installed, powered first by by windmills, then steam engines and more latterly diesel and electricity. The landscape today, criss-crossed by neat and well-maintained drains, is a testimony to the planning of generations of people who had faith in the future of the area.The only stretch of the Fens to retain its undrained medieval character is preserved by the National Trust as a nature reserve at Wicken Fen. To see methods of fen drainage visit Stretham Beam Engine - built in 1831 and perfectly preserved - Lode's watermill and Soham's windmills (both still working) and the land drainage museum in the old pump house at Prickwillow. Towns and VillagesThe towns and villages are delightfully rural, many with riverside locations. March, an island in before the drainage, is now a busy market town and administrative centre. St Wendreda's Church has a spectacular hammer-beam roof reflecting the town's medieval prosperity. Enjoy a riverside walk along West End which has been likened to a Thames-side village in miniature.Explore the unique character of the smaller towns and villages: Whittlesey, with a variety of architecture and unusual mud walls; Chatteris, a sleepy market town, protected by a conservation area; in Thorney the houses have an ochre hue and Swaffham Prior with its two churches in a single churchyard. Visit the Cambridgeshire Fens for a peaceful, relaxing holiday travelling on uncrowded road, fishing or boating along the tranquil waterways or exploring the heritage of charming rural towns. Places to visit:More information and places to visit:
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