Attractions and Places To See around Kelshall - Top 20

Kelshall is rich in history. You can explore the ancient St. Faith's Church, primarily built in the early 15th century, which features brasses and monuments. The village also has historic houses like The Maltings and The Old Rectory, some dating back to the 1600s. Additionally, the Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial commemorates a significant World War II site.

Yes, evidence of Roman occupation has been found in the area, including a Roman grave discovered in 2014, with artifacts now housed in the North Hertfordshire Museum. For prehistoric interest, the Gallows Hill Tumulus, a bowl barrow, indicates ancient occupation near the Icknield Way. You can also experience history on the Ashwell Street Byway, which follows part of an old Roman Road.

Kelshall is situated on a broad chalk ridge, offering elevated views of the surrounding countryside. The village green is a central focal point. Just north of Kelshall, you can explore Therfield Heath and Greens, a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Local Nature Reserve, offering many walking trails. The area also features rural landscapes extending down to the ancient Icknield Way.

Yes, there are several options for walking and cycling. The Ashwell Street Byway is an unpaved grassy trail suitable for cycling, horse riding, or walking, following an old Roman Road. The Nuthampstead Airfield Memorial Road is a scenic cycle way that rolls quietly through pretty fields. For more extensive routes, you can find various MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Touring Bicycle routes around Kelshall.

The terrain around Kelshall is varied, reflecting its location on a chalk ridge and rural setting. Trails like the Ashwell Street Byway are unpaved and grassy, suitable for off-road cycling or walking. Other routes, such as the Nuthampstead Airfield Memorial Road, are quiet roads through fields. Expect some rolling hills due to the chalk ridge, and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain, as noted by visitors.

Yes, several attractions around Kelshall are suitable for families. The Cromer Windmill, the country's only surviving windmill, offers an interesting historical visit. The Steeple Morden Airfield Memorial can also be a thought-provoking stop for families interested in history. For a relaxing break, the Fox and Duck Pub in Therfield is a family-friendly spot with good food.

The best time to visit Kelshall for outdoor activities and exploring its rural charm is generally during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn. This allows for comfortable walking and cycling on the trails and better enjoyment of the natural landscapes. Historical sites like Cromer Windmill often have limited opening hours during summer, so checking their specific schedules is advisable.

The Fox and Duck Pub in Therfield is a highly-rated option nearby, known for serving good food and drinks in a traditional village setting. Ashwell village, close to the Ashwell Street Byway, also offers shops and a coffee shop.

Beyond the main highlights, consider exploring the Queen's Green Canopy Platinum Jubilee Walk, a circular walk around Kelshall and neighboring Therfield, featuring newly planted trees. The historic village green with its Millennium Cross and time capsule also offers a quiet moment of reflection on local history. The rural lanes themselves, like those around the Nuthampstead Airfield Memorial Road, are often described as very pretty and quiet, perfect for a peaceful exploration.

The Cromer Windmill is a significant historical landmark, first built in 1681 and now restored. It is notable as the country's only surviving windmill. Visitors can sometimes tour it for a small fee, though opening times are limited, typically on Sundays and some Saturdays during summer. It's located in lovely remote countryside.

The Ashwell Street Byway is a trail that follows part of an old Roman Road. It's an unpaved, grassy path suitable for cycling (mountain or gravel bikes), horse riding, or walking. It offers a traffic-free connection between Melbourn and Ashwell, with free parking, shops, and a coffee shop available in Ashwell village.

The Nuthampstead Airfield Memorial Road is a scenic cycle way that winds quietly through very pretty fields. It's part of a lovely area known for its quiet roads and abundant wildlife, including pheasants and partridges. While it can be muddy with puddles at times, it offers a beautiful route for cycling or walking.