NEN Gallery

In Norman and Saxon times the Roman Roads had fallen into disrepair in this area. At one time there had been a Roman town, however the area lay derelict for centuries. In the year 1100 it was just a crossroads in a forest (similar to that shown). However trade and commerce were growing in England and the country was growing richer. The number of travellers was also increasing. In 1109 King Henry I deliberately created a new town at the ancient crossroads of Watling Street and the Icknield Way.