Hooper’s Green - Built on History

Filled with character and charm, the beautiful riverside market town of St Neots has a fascinating history which dates back over 1,000 years. Step back in time with us as we explore some of the breath-taking architecture lining the streets of St Neots, and discover the fantastic history of this incredible place…

Market square 4-minute drive from Hooper’s Green

A typical market town, St Neots hosts the weekly Charter Market every Thursday, and the fortnightly Farmers Market. Filled with a plethora of independent brands, the Farmers Market is a great place to meet local producers and sample their delicious goods.

The market originated in 1137, and was formerly made up of rickety wooden stalls, but over the years, the stalls were replaced by permanent structures and high-street shops, which now line the current ‘Market Square’. Today, the market is one of the largest in England!

The Priory of Saint Neots 7-minute drive from Hooper’s Green

The Priory of Saint Neots is the town’s most famous landmark, dating all the way back to 972. Although it is no longer standing, the town recently secured a £20,000 Heritage Lottery Grant for a ground radar study to identify the remaining foundations of the priory.

St Neots was named after the 9th-century monk Saint Neots, who spent much of his life in the town. In commemoration of the monk’s death, the Priory was built in his honour. Over the centuries, The Priory faced an unfortunate fate – it was attacked during the Danish invasion in 1010 and under Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, the priory was forced to close.

St Mary’s Church 5-minute drive from Hooper’s Green

Another impressive structure in St Neots is the beautiful ironstone and pebble parish church of St Mary, one of the county’s largest medieval churches. It is set back some way from the town centre, but with a remarkable 130 ft high tower, it is worth a visit!

River Great Ouse 13-minute drive from Hooper’s Green

The River Great Ouse is the fifth longest river in the UK at just under 75 miles long, running through St Neots to Great Yarmouth and the Broads.

The river plays host to a Dragon Boat festival in August, which offers a chance for the local community to come together for a day of healthy competition on the water. Additionally, adjacent to the banks of the river is the charming family Ambience Café, where you can enjoy delicious pastries and coffee.

Historically, the River Great Ouse was a significant trade route and, over the years, has seen lace, foods and other resources shipped along its waters.

St Neots Local History Society 10-minute drive from Hooper’s Green

If you are interested in learning more about the rich history of St Neots, we’d recommend St Neots Local History Society.

The group explores and promotes the area’s varied history, meeting monthly to discuss research and embark on summer outings, led by members of the Society or local experts The Society publishes a popular magazine which contains interesting articles on local history.

Best of all, membership is open to anyone with an interest in the history of the town, or local history generally!

Society membership is not only a great way to learn more about the fascinating history of the town but also an excellent way to meet local people who take pride and interest in the town they live in

 

A fascinating history combined with a vibrant modern-day culture makes the beautiful town of St Neots a truly unique place to live.