Go Back
Dunstable, England: Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dunstable,_The_Clock_Tower_and_Market_Cross_-_geograph.org.uk_-_145452.jpgAuthor: Nigel Cox
Dunstable is a market town in Bedfordshire, England, about 30 miles to the north of London. The town has a population of 35,000 people (2012 estimate).
Dunstable dates back to Roman times, when it was named Durocobrivis. Human habitation goes back even further, into the Stone Age. There was already a settlement here when the Romans built a road passing through it. That road becomes today's Watling Street, otherwise known as the A5 road.
Dunstable was largely forested until the 12th century, when King Henry I encouraged settlers to move in. He also established Dunstable Priory in 1131. That was where King Henry VIII later divorced Catherine of Aragon, leading to the founding of the Church of England.
Dunstable remained an important market town in the 19th century, though it was somewhat eclipsed by Luton, which grew more rapidly.
Dunstable Priory: Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:DunstablePriory.JPGAuthor: JohnArmagh
Visiting Dunstable
Dunstable can be easily reached on the M1 motorway. Turn off at Junction 9 and continue on the A5 road heading northwest until you reach the town.Places of Interest in Dunstable
- Dunstable Downs: Chalky escarpment outside town. It is a popular spot of kite flying, paragliding and hang gliding.
- Dunstable Priory: Church were King Henry VIII divorced Catherine of Aragon.
- Priory House Heritage Centre: Center providing information on the history of Dunstable.
- Whipsnade Zoo: Open range zoo at Whipsnade, near Dunstable.
Latest updates on Penang Travel Tips
Copyright © 2003-2025 Timothy Tye. All Rights Reserved.