If a street could talk, what kind of stories would it tell? The fact is that every street has a story, one just has to listen carefully. A simple two-way lane is where the past, the present, and the future collide, coexisting in a continuous loop. The older the street, the longer the trip down memory lane.
Nowadays we hear the word vintage being thrown around a lot, but in the cases of what we are about to share, it is certainly the most appropriate one. These six particular streets in England can’t get any more vintage than this. Dating back to medieval times, they look like something ripped straight out of the pages of a fairy tale.
Besides being incredibly picturesque and beautiful, these medieval cobbled streets are the “road” to England’s history. From the Roman age to Tudor times, these streets below have been named the most significant and historically important in the country. We’ve assembled a countdown, ending with the most spectacular.
Gold Hill – Shaftesbury
Featured in many TV shows, movies, calendar pictures, and photographs, both personal and professional, Gold Hill is Shaftesbury’s very own Hollywood Boulevard. Both uphill and downhill, it doesn’t make a difference. This street is truly a sight for sore eyes, one of the most romantic in all of England
Steep Hill – Lincoln
A true historical gem, Steep Hill certainly deserved being named Britain’s Best Place by the Academy of Urbanism, as it is one of the most popular destinations in the city of Lincoln. There are numerous reasons why this particular street deserves the reputation it has, but nowadays, it is worth mentioning that nothing shapes its beauty and charm like the various independent shops across Steep Hill do.
From bookstores and art galleries to sweet shops, cafes, restaurants, and gift shops, the list of independent and entrepreneurial retail outlets on Steep Hill is quite impressive and never ceases to amaze the curious visitors.
Elm Hill – Norwich
If you want be transported back to a distant place in time, make sure that you visit the town of Norwich, and more precisely, Elm Hill. The moment you step foot on the beautifully constructed cobblestones, we can assure you, you will have the experience of a lifetime.
This historic lane will most surely take you right back to the Tudor era as if you’re actually living there. The street’s whimsical, almost dreamy, quality makes it the perfect go-to place for the weary traveler and the curious eye.
King’s Parade – Cambridge
A popular tourist destination, just like the rest of England’s medieval streets included on our list, King’s Parade is possibly the most famous street in central Cambridge. Apart from its historical significance, it also represents the spirit of the entire city.
Surrounded by the legendary colleges of Cambridge and many other historic sites and museums, King’s Parade is one of the main tourist attractions in the city of Cambridge and one of the most photographed places in the entire country.
Petticoat Lane Market – London
Of all the old markets spread across the city of London, none has a history as rich and intriguing as the Petticoat Lane Market, which is not just one of the oldest in London, but also, in all of the United Kingdom.
Split into two markets down on Middlesex and Wentworth Street, with over 1,000 stalls that sell mostly retail price clothes, it is open from 9 A.M to 3 P.M. every day of the week, except Saturdays.
In the time of the Tudors, it was originally known as Hogs Lane, probably because livestock was brought in the city through here. But as the street market became bigger and bigger, by the start of the 17th century it got to be called Petticoat, and the name has stuck, even to this day.
The Shambles – York
Apart from being York’s most famous street, the Shambles is also widely known as the best preserved medieval street in Europe. This narrow cobbled street is set in the heart of the city of York among a great number of beautifully preserved Elizabethan buildings, many of which add more medieval charm to the historic street.
In case you are heading England this period, make sure to add some of these iconic medieval streets to your “must visit” list. We promise you won’t regret it!