Exploring Rural England: A Journey Through History and Landscapes

Welcome back to our blog series, where we share the travel stories of Museum staff and friends. In this edition, we’re highlighting Amanda’s journey through rural England, exploring the historical gems she encountered along the way!

One of the standout moments from Amanda’s journey took place in Yorkshire, in the picturesque and historic village of Low Bentham. This tiny village, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, feels like a step back in time. Despite its modest size, Low Bentham is rich in history, offering a unique glimpse into the past. A particularly fascinating highlight was the village’s Plague Stone, a striking reminder of the hardships faced by communities during the height of the bubonic plague. Located near the village’s edge, this large stone slab was used during the 17th century as a method of 'contactless' exchange, allowing villagers to trade goods while minimizing the risk of infection. At the time, Low Bentham, like many rural areas, was a close-knit community with few medical resources to fight the disease.

During outbreaks, local residents would leave money, food, and other provisions on the stone to be collected by those in quarantine or those suspected of carrying the plague. To reduce the risk of contamination, villagers often left coins in vinegar or acid, hoping to disinfect them before they were handled by others. The stone’s strategic location near the village’s boundary was key: it allowed for these exchanges to take place without direct contact, keeping the spread of the disease as minimal as possible.

Another highlight was Amanda’s visit to Kiln Hill, a nearby location offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is known for its network of traditional stone walls, which have stood for centuries and still mark the boundaries of farmland today. These walls, characteristic of the region, provide a glimpse into the historical methods of land division and farming that shaped the landscape of rural Yorkshire.

A visit to the Carnforth Viaduct at dusk offered a striking view of this impressive railway structure. Completed in 1869, the viaduct spans the River Keer and stands 150 feet (46 meters) high, with 15 stone arches. Still an active part of the West Coast Main Line, the viaduct remains a key landmark, offering a unique blend of industrial heritage and scenic charm.

Another standout moment was a visit to historic Stamford, renowned for its impressive collection of ancient buildings. The town is home to over 600 listed buildings, many of which date back to the medieval and Georgian periods, showcasing a rich architectural heritage. One of the town's notable landmarks is the Eleanor Cross, an iconic structure erected in the 13th century to commemorate Queen Eleanor of Castile. The cross stands as a testament to both the town's medieval history and its role in the royal journey following the queen’s death. Walking through Stamford provides an opportunity to see many buildings and structures still standing as they did centuries ago.

Amanda’s journey ended in rural Devon, a county located in the southwest of England. Known for its rich agricultural history, Devon is home to vast stretches of farmland, much of which has been cultivated for centuries. The county is also famous for its striking moorland areas, such as Dartmoor and Exmoor, which are designated national parks and offer unique landscapes of rugged terrain, granite tors, and wild heathland. To the south, Devon’s coastline includes both dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches, with popular spots like the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering significant geological interest. With its mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks, Devon remains a quintessential example of rural England. But beyond its natural beauty, Devon is also a place where quirky pieces of history are preserved, such as the heritage-listed three-seater toilet near the village of Bishop's Tawton.. where else in the world can you find a lavatory so historically significant that it’s been given a spot on the heritage register? It’s just one example of how Devon, with its mix of culture, history, and natural wonders, continues to captivate those who travel there.

Amanda’s journey through rural England highlighted the region’s rich history and diverse landscapes. From the ancient Plague Stone in Low Bentham to the impressive Carnforth Viaduct, each stop offered a unique insight into the country’s past. The picturesque countryside, historic towns like Stamford, and the stunning coastlines of Devon rounded out her trip, showcasing the variety of England’s architectural, cultural, and natural heritage. This journey served as a reminder of the country’s deep historical roots, as well as the enduring beauty of its rural and coastal landscapes.