URPoint Details
A substantial stone-built village on the banks of Harper's Brook.
The village of today began as the centre of a Saxon royal estate, a settlement in a clearing in the forest, but commanding an important position between the Royal Parks of Fermyn Woods and Geddington Chase.
It was also the centre for administering the Forest Law.
The Great Hall of the Manor House dates from about 1150 and was at times used by King John and his Court as a hunting lodge. It is said that he set out from this house on his ill-fated journey to the Wash where he lost the Crown jewels.
In contrast is the tall, late Victorian stone-built clothing factory with its huge chapel windows and bell.
At least twelve buildings in the village have been public houses at some time in their history, but these are only a few of the fascinating ones, many of which form a circle around the ancient market cross at Hall Hill.
If you wish to explore the village on foot there is access from the Country Park.
- Type:
- Landmark