Dunstable Tourist Information |
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Dunstable is the oldest charter town in Bedfordshire. Located on the beautiful Downs, in a gap within the Chilterns, it is proud of its rich history and heritage. The Priory Church of St Peters is an outstanding local landmark which still dominates the town. It was founded in 1131 by Henry I but the grand building took over 150 years to complete. The Priory was where the annulment of the marriage between Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon took place, which led to the establishing of the Church of England and the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Priory House was where pilgrims would have stayed to rest from their journey along Watling Street. It is now a Grade II listed building with a 13th century vaulted stone ceiling of note. In its long life it has been an asylum, a hat factory, flats and offices. For centuries Dunstable was little more than a crossroads of two important Roman Roads: Watling Street (now the A5) and Icknield Way. However, with the rise in coach travel it became an important stopping point and many coaching inns and hotels were built. Early in the 19th century coach travel was superseded by trains and the huge empty buildings with their large windows and yards proved to be ideal for hat factories. Present Day Dunstable The town centre combines a mixture of historic buildings with newer additions such as the Grove Theatre and entertainment venue. The development includes restaurants and bars overlooking the pleasant Grove House Gardens. Priory House is now used as a Heritage Centre with a fine exhibit of local history. It also houses the "Taste of Bedfordshire" and sells local produce including crafts and foods. Dunstable still has its almshouses, built in 1723 by Jane Cart. The buildings now offer desirable town centre mews-style housing. Chews House was the original Church of England Schoolhouse, built by Jane's father, Thomas Chew and is now used as church offices. Things to Do Around Dunstable Grove House Gardens are open to the public and can be reached through the wrought iron gates which are now part of the listed building of Grove House. The surrounding Downs are a delightful area of scenic countryside. Blows Down was acquired by the Wildlife Trust and Dunstable Downs is a public area with stunning views and excellent walks. Walk the green lanes to the prehistoric camp of Sewell and the ancient earthworks at Totternhoe Knolls to appreciate the ancient history of the area. Dog Kennel Walk is a well-trod footpath from Dunstable town to Houghton Regis. Those visiting Whipsnade Zoo should make a detour to see the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral. Planted over 70 years ago by Edmund Kell, the trees have been shaped to create a natural nave, transept, cloisters and chapels around a quiet pond. It is a serene and unique place to pause for quiet contemplation.
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Attractions near Dunstable
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Escape the urban jungle and head for Whipsnade for the perfect family day out. |
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Wardown Park Museum
(4 Miles)*
Wardown Park Museum is situated 1.5 miles from the centre of Luton in a beautiful landscaped park. The first floor galleries house the Luton Life displays which explore the stories of Luton people over the past 150 years. |
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Leighton Buzzard Railway
(6 Miles)*
With its sharp curves, its steep gradients, its level crossings and its unique roadside running, the Leighton Buzzard Railway takes you back to a more relaxed age of transport. |
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Towns near Dunstable
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Houghton Regis Tourist Information
(1 Mile)*
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Lewsey Tourist Information
(1 Mile)*
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Totternhoe Tourist Information
(2 Miles)*
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Hotels near Dunstable
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Self Catering near Dunstable
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Sebright Farm Cottage is a large family luxury secluded seven bedroom house, sleeping up to 19 people, set in stunning historic parkland with easy access from London, the M1, M25. |
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Town Farm Cottage is one of seven attractive holiday cottages at Town Farm that form two sides of the central farmyard to the rear of the main farmhouse. Town Farm is a working farm nestled at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. |
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Advertising your self catering property or holiday cottage on AboutBritain.com will get you noticed by thousands of potential guests every day. |
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