How to get here

Royston, A505 east of Letchworth,west on A10 from M11

Royston map

Location Map of Royston

Hertfordshire Holiday Cottages

Hertfordshire Guide Features

Hertfordshire Areas

Hertfordshire Guides & Maps

 

Royston, a busy market town, lies in the north-east corner of the county, on the border with Cambridgshire.

Royston grew up at the intersection of two ancient thoroughfares: Ermine Street and Icknield Way. Ermine Street was constructed by the Romans but the prehistoric Icknield Way said to be 'the oldest road in Britain' was ancient even before the Romans invaded Britain.

The town takes its name from the wayside cross erected by Lady Roysia in around 1066.

Hidden beneath the central junction of the town, at the junction of the two ancient routes, lies the man-made Royston Cave.

In the 17th century Royston was a favourite hunting base for King James I, who built a hunting lodge there. Royston boasts some historic buildings and award-winning gardens for the visitor to see.

The town's facinating history is detailed at the Royston Museum.

Today, light industry also provides employment for residents of the market town.

Wimpole Hall, a magnificent stately home, lies six miles from Royston (in Cambridgeshire).

What to see - Royston Tourist Attractions

  Activities

Royston Cave Melbourn Street, Royston
hidden beneath the pavement, this circular, bell-shaped cave was cut into the 60 m (197ft) layer of chalk which underlies the town. Legend suggests that in the 13th century it was used as a secret meeting place by the Knights Templar.   Royston Cave information

  Historic Houses

Wimpole Hall Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW
Six miles from Royston (in Cambridgeshire). A magnificent stately home set in an estate with gardens and farm. National Trust.   Wimpole Hall information

  Museums

Royston Museum Lower King Street, Royston SG8 5AL
Has the Royston Tapestry project, local history and a collection of ceramics and glass. Royston Museum information

Where to stay in Royston

Call our Hotel Telephone Reservations Line: 0870 4786316

Hotels

Sheene Mill 37 - 39 Station Road Royston SG8 6DX MAP
This former mill house with restaurant and bar has a tranquil, elegant atmosphere. It is close to the centre of Royston and 15 minutes south of Cambridge. Sheene Mill is set in pretty landscaped gardens, and is not far from junctions 10 and 11 of the M1...
More Information and Book ...

Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and other Hotels

The Chequers Guest accommodation

The Chequers 58 High Street Royston SG8 9AW MAP
This charming 15th century coaching inn, set in the beautiful old market town of Royston, Hertfordshire, offers a well-balanced blend of contemporary design and traditional architecture. The Chequers is a unique environment for a casual drink, a meal fro...
More Information and Book ...
Coach House Hotel Newmarket Road Melbourne near Royston SG8 7PN MAP
The Coach House Hotel primarily built of local flint and after major refurbishment has maintained its old world charm and offers warm friendly welcome to all our guests. Nestled amongst farmland this pretty coaching inn situated on the.....
More Information and Book ...

Around The Royston Area

Tourist Information on Nearby Towns To Visit - straight line distance:
Wimpole (5.67 miles) Baldock (8.13 miles) Duxford (8.34 miles) Letchworth (9.90 miles) Bourn (9.93 miles) Biggleswade (10.40 miles) Saffron Walden (11.73 miles) Hitchen (12.25 miles) Cambridge (12.36 miles) Sandy (12.56 miles) Stevenage (12.62 miles)