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About Boroughbridge

 

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Boroughbridge is a tranquil village that boasts a vibrant high street adorned with charming pubs, restaurants, and a delightful array of independent shops. Just a short distance away lies the picturesque village of Aldborough.

Exploring Boroughbridge: Boroughbridge’s primary high street exudes the charm of cottage-style houses. While it may not be the most well-known tourist destination in the area, taking the time to explore its shops and cafes is a true pleasure. At one end of the high street, you’ll find Hall Square, a picturesque area with a cobbled pavement and historic fishermen’s cottages once inhabited by the River Tutt fishermen.

History of Boroughbridge:

Boroughbridge is a small town and civil parish in the Harrogate district of North Yorkshire, England. Historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, it is 16 miles (26 km) north-west of the county town of York. Until a bypass was built, the town lay on the main A1 road from London to Edinburgh, which crosses the River Ure here. The civil parish includes the villages of Aldborough and Minskip.

The origin of the name “Boroughbridge” lies in its location relative to Aldborough, the principal settlement during the Roman period known as Isurium Brigantum. Dere Street, the Roman road heading north from York, originally crossed the River Ure just north of Aldborough, but at an unknown date, the road was diverted to cross the river at Boroughbridge. The place was first mentioned in 1155 in the Latin form “pontem de Burgo,” and by 1298 in the English form “Burghbrig” (“the bridge near Burgh or Aldborough”). A new town grew up at the bridge, and the Old Town became known as the “Ald-Borough.”

A line of three menhirs, or standing stones known as the Devil’s Arrows, believed to have been erected in the Bronze Age, can be found on the outskirts of Boroughbridge, by the side of the A1. The tallest stone is 22 feet (6.7 m) tall. The stones are of millstone grit, probably quarried from Plompton, the closest source of this material. The stones stand on an almost north–south alignment, with the central stone slightly offset.

Boroughbridge was not mentioned in the Domesday Book but was later described as part of the manor of Aldborough. In 1229, Boroughbridge, as part of the manor of Aldborough, was granted to Hubert de Burgh but was forfeited a few years later by his son, who fought against the king at the Battle of Evesham.

In 1318, Boroughbridge was devastated by the Scots under Sir James Douglas following the Capture of Berwick upon Tweed.

In 1322, the Battle of Boroughbridge took place as King Edward II overpowered Thomas, Earl of Lancaster, bringing about the end of Edward II’s retaliation against those who had opposed him in the Despenser War of 1320–21.

Market Well:

From medieval times, Boroughbridge was part of the parish of Aldborough in the West Riding of Yorkshire. In 1553, it became a parliamentary borough, electing two Members of Parliament to the unreformed House of Commons. It had a burgage franchise, meaning that the right to vote was tied to ownership of certain property in the borough and had less than 100 qualified voters by the time it was abolished in the Reform Act of 1832.

Boroughbridge was an important stage for stagecoaches because of its position on the Great North Road, midway between London and Edinburgh.

Modern Times:

Boroughbridge became a separate civil parish in 1866. In 1938, the civil parish absorbed the parishes of Aldborough and Minskip.

In 1945, the bridge carrying the A1 road over the River Ure collapsed under the weight of a heavy transport vehicle carrying an 80-ton steel mill roll housing from Sheffield to Falkirk. The incident interrupted the main transport route for a short time, and the army installed a Bailey bridge until repairs were completed.

In 1974, Boroughbridge was transferred from the West Riding to the new county of North Yorkshire.

In 2011, the town’s sewage works was upgraded to meet stringent environmental requirements, improving waste management for the local population.

A Day in Boroughbridge:

Boroughbridge offers a fantastic bustling high street with everything to delight a visitor. There’s a free car park near the Butter Market Museum, along with free disc parking, making it convenient for visitors. You can also find great local produce from local producers. The shops mainly consist of local businesses, with a few brand names for those who prefer them. Everything you need for your stay, including butchers, bakers, clothing stores, greengrocers, wines, and more, can be found in the town. After a day of shopping, there are great cafes, pubs, and restaurants to visit.

Here are some of the businesses in Boroughbridge:

  • The Beauty Shop
  • Address: 19 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 325205

    Absolute Fitness Hair & Beauty Studio

    Address: 2A Brickyard Rd, Roecliffe, York YO51 9NS, UK

    Phone: 01423 323241

    Dzyna Nails

    Address: 18 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 325683

    The Leonard Cheshire Foundation

    Address: 22 St James’ Meadow, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AR, UK

    Phone: 01423 324780

    YMCA Shop

    Address: 27 Fishergate, Boroughbridge YO15 9AL, UK

    Phone: 01423 324318

    Oxfam

    Address: 43-47 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Chemist

    Treharne D H & G Ltd

    Address: 26 High St, City Centre, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 322448

    Food Shops:

    SPAR Boroughbridge

    Address: 37 High St

    Phone: 01423 32235

    On the Run Deli

    Address: Horsefair

    Phone: 01423 324699

    Fink

    Address: 14 High St

    Phone: 01423 324188

    Fashion Store Ltd

    Address: 39 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 325999

    Wardrobe

    Address: 12 Fishergate, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AL, UK

    Phone: 01423 324374

    Explore a curated collection of fashion at Wardrobe, 12 Fishergate.

    Gift Shops:

    Issima Of Boroughbridge

    Address: 6 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 325979

    La Tienda Gifts

    Address: 16 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 329172

    Florists:

    Bloomerang Flowers

    Address: 42 High St, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9AW, UK

    Phone: 01423 324863

Shopping in Boroughbridge is reminiscent of the old days, with the personal service you used to get from your local shopkeeper. Enjoy the quaint charm and local offerings in this delightful village.

Accommodation in Boroughbridge

The Crown Hotel stands as a testament to Boroughbridge’s rich history, extending a warm welcome to guests since the 16th century. Situated in the heart of the town, this historic establishment offers not only comfortable accommodations but also a dining experience that showcases the best of British cuisine.

Venturing further into the town’s hospitality, The Grantham Arms, with its roots tracing back to the 18th century, graces Boroughbridge with 27 rooms and suites. Nestled along the picturesque River Ure, this establishment boasts a charming setting, featuring a restaurant, bar, and a timeless ambiance.

For those seeking a popular choice in accommodations, The Bridge House Hotel emerges as an excellent option. With 14 well-appointed rooms, a vibrant bar, and a restaurant serving traditional British fare, it remains a favored destination for Boroughbridge visitors.

Adding a touch of familial warmth, The Crown Inn, a family-run hotel, offers cozy lodgings and a dining experience that revolves around homemade dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

In the heart of Boroughbridge, The Black Bull Hotel, a traditional English pub, seamlessly blends comfortable accommodation with the charm of a lively bar. Here, patrons can indulge in pub food and savor the richness of real ales.

The Three Coopers, another historic pub with rooms in Boroughbridge, invites guests to revel in a friendly atmosphere. Boasting a popular bar and serving up traditional British fare, it stands as a quintessential part of the town’s hospitality scene.

Stepping just outside Boroughbridge to the village of Aldwark, The Aldwark Arms takes on a boutique persona. Offering five individually decorated rooms, a restaurant presenting modern British cuisine, and a bar complete with a cozy fireplace, it creates a unique retreat.

A few miles beyond Boroughbridge, The Plum and Partridge, a country inn, beckons travelers with its nine spacious rooms. A well-appointed bar and a restaurant committed to hearty meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients complete the experience.

For those desiring a luxurious escape, The Black Swan at Fearby, located approximately 10 miles from Boroughbridge, emerges as a beacon of opulence. Boasting 45 rooms and suites, a spa, and a restaurant showcasing modern British cuisine, it sits amidst beautiful countryside, providing breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales.

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