The ancient town of Stevenage is located in the county of Hertfordshire. Originally founded in the mid 1000s the town's name is believed to be a derivative of an old word meaning Oak. The town was built along a roman road that ran from Baldock to Verulamin. By 1281 the town was populous enough to be granted a twice weekly market and an annual fair. But it remained a somewhat quiet country town until after World War II. Then in 1946 it was designated as Britain's first "New Town". Today it has many things for visitors to see and do.
The Gardens at Benington Lordship is a popular retreat for those anxious to be in the great outdoors. This seven acre retreat is a beautiful mix of herbaceous borders, roses and yes rocks. Visitors can cruise the gardens at their own pace and take in the serene surroundings. It is a wonderful way to get out of the car/room and spend a day outside. One of the main features of the garden isn't agricultural it's architectural. A 19th Century Norman gatehouse ruins lies within the boundaries of the gardens and is a beautiful feature in such delicate settings.
If you are looking for information on the town itself then head over to the Stevenage Museum. This museum charts the town's history. The exhibits range from prehistoric times all the way up to modern day. You will find information on what it was like during the Roman times, and even get to see a few Roman coins and, for those of the more modern generation, can even see what a typical 1950's sitting room looked like. There are the usual displays in which you would normally look and not touch as well as the interactive displays that allow you to learn about the past through doing. The museum also plays host to special exhibitions that rotate through the museum throughout the year.
For those interested in windmills them Stevenage has an interesting piece of history for you. The Cromer windmill which was built from 1679 to 1681 is the last remaining post-mill in Hertfordshire. Visitors and windmill enthusiasts can go by this amazing piece of history and see what a 17th Century windmill looked like for themselves.
If you are in the Stevenage area during late February then head just east to Benington. This quaint little town has charm and beauty. You can find many things to do while wandering the city streets, but it's best to go in late February. If you do, swing by the church to see the beautiful snowdrop in bloom.
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