Great Berkhampstead

Settlement in Hertfordshire Dacorum

England

Great Berkhampstead

Great Berkhampstead is a small village located in Hertfordshire, a county in the East of England. Situated approximately 30 miles northwest of London, Great Berkhampstead is known for its picturesque countryside and rich historical heritage.

The village is home to a population of around 2,000 residents and is surrounded by lush green fields and rolling hills, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The River Bulbourne flows through the village, adding to its scenic beauty.

Great Berkhampstead has a long history that dates back to the medieval period. The village is famous for its historic buildings, with St. Peter's Church being a prominent architectural landmark. The church, which dates back to the 12th century, features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stonework.

The village also boasts a number of traditional thatched cottages, adding to its charm and character. In addition to its historical significance, Great Berkhampstead is known for its strong sense of community. The village hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including a summer fete and a Christmas market.

Despite its small size, Great Berkhampstead offers a range of amenities for residents and visitors. These include a primary school, a village hall, a post office, and a few local shops. For those seeking a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle, Great Berkhampstead offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities.

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Great Berkhampstead Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.762118/-0.5814044 or Grid Reference SP9808. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Boat pub

Mark Percy

The Rising Sun pub

A canalside pub dating back to the 1880s.

Mark Percy

Canadian totem pole

The totem pole was given to John Alsford in 1968 when he owned the timber yard that was originally on the site where it stands. The red cedar wood pole was carved and designed by the Kwaguilth artist Chief Henry Hunt of the Kwakiutl tribe. The carving is a fertility symbol and legend has it that women wishing to conceive should make three wishes for the child they dream of.

Mark Percy

Berkhamsted Castle ruins

Berkhamsted can trace its origins to Saxon times when there was an important fort here guarding one of the principal routes through the Chilterns. It was to Berkhamsted that William, Duke of Normandy came in 1066 after defeating Harold at Hastings and where he was offered the English Crown by Archbishop Ealdred and various noblemen before proceeding to London. William granted the Manor and Honour of Berkhamsted to his half-brother, Robert, Count of Mortain who built a typical Norman motte and bailey castle including an earthen mound surrounded by a defensive enclosure. The earliest stone buildings appeared in the mid-12th century when the castle was rebuilt. In 1216 the castle was besieged by Prince Louis of France. Castles of this type fell out of favour at the end of the 15th century and Berkhamsted was abandoned in 1495. Although much of the stone was plundered in subsequent centuries, the ruin has always been a significant feature of the town and is now in the care of English Heritage.

Mark Percy