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).
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
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
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
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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 ... |
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16 Melbourn Street Royston SG8 7BZ MAP Just 20 minutes from Cambridge, The Banyers of Royston Hotel has free parking, free Wi-Fi and a popular restaurant. Set in a grand period house, the hotel is a 10-minute drive from Duxford. The rooms at The Banyers are individually decorated with hand-cr... More Information and Book ... |
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Wimbish Manor Estate, Fowlmere Rd Royston SG8 6QP MAP Set in leafy grounds, this family-run bed and breakfast offers elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi and scenic views. The house is situated in Shepreth, just a 15-minute drive from Cambridge. Each room at The Coach House features a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee fa... More Information and Book ... |
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56 High Street Royston SG8 9AW MAP Set in a 16th-century coaching inn, The Old Bull offers historical features and traditional charm. Situated in the busy market town of Royston, the inn is just 12 miles from Cambridge. As Royston’s oldest hostelry, The Old Bull has cosy rooms with indi... More Information and Book ... |
Towns Near Royston To Visit - straight line distance:
Wimpole Tourist Information (5.67 miles) Baldock Tourist Information (8.13 miles) Duxford Tourist Information (8.34 miles) Letchworth Tourist Information (9.90 miles)