The Market House, Biggleswade
The Market House, Biggleswade

The market town of Biggleswade evolved as a ford across the River Ivel (the name means "Biccel's ford" in Saxon). Though there was a medieval castle here, nothing now remains of it but earthworks and crop marks.

The Market House was built in 1565 and saw use as an administrative centre for the weekly market. The building was remodelled extensively in the 20th century and is now home to several shops, but the original 16th-century roof has been preserved.

Cycling pioneer Dan Alborne is Biggleswade's most famous resident. Albone, working from a shop at #3 Market Square, invented both the lady's bicycle and the tandem. But he didn't stop at bicycles; Albone also invented the Ivel Agricultural Tractor, which became ubiquitous on farms across Britain.

During the early 19th century the town was a bustling inland port, connected to the sea by the Ivel Navigation (canal).

Related:
Shuttleworth Collection, museums and garden

About Biggleswade
Address: Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, England
Attraction Type: Town
Location map
OS: TL188 446
Photo Credit: Chris Downer, licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Licence


HERITAGE

HeritageWe've 'tagged' this attraction information to help you find related historic attractions and learn more about major time periods mentioned.

Historic Time Periods:

Saxon

Find other attractions tagged with:

Saxon (Time Period) -


NEARBY HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS

Heritage Rated from 1- 5 (low to exceptional) on historic interest

Biggleswade Castle - 0.3 miles (Castle) Heritage Rating

Lodge Nature Reserve - 2.4 miles (Garden) Heritage Rating

Shuttleworth Collection - 2.4 miles (Museum) Heritage Rating

Swiss Garden - 2.6 miles (Garden) Heritage Rating

Edworth, St George's Church - 3.2 miles (Historic Church) Heritage Rating

Moggerhanger Park - 4.2 miles (Historic House) Heritage Rating

Willington Dovecote and Stables - 6 miles (Historic Building) Heritage Rating

Meppershall Castle - 6.5 miles (Castle) Heritage Rating



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