The Story of the Fens

Before the Fens were drained this was a different world of misty marshes and treacherous bogs. Remote islands were dominated by grand abbeys and the wetlands were inhabited by a strange independent folk who lived off the fish and wildfowl of this inhospitable place.

Large scale drainage of the marshes transformed the landscape and produced acre upon acre of the most fertile farmland in the country.

The prize for draining the Fens has been rich. The price is never-ending vigilance as the water constantly strains to reclaim its ancient ground.

The changing nature of the Fens and man’s relationship with the land makes an intriguing story.

Join us on a fascinating journey through time as we explore the creation of this unique landscape and the evolution of the towns and villages that depend upon it.