Discover Baldock: History and Nature

A trip to Baldock can focus on a range of themes: early settlement history, the founding of the present-day town, architecture and life as a market town. Weston Hills, the Ancient Baldock walk and the Baldock Circular Ride add nature and activity to these historical themes. If you’re looking for a hotel in Baldock, first decide which focus will shape your stay. This way, you can start your search with a specific reason for travelling rather than just the place name.

Baldock’s history: from early settlements to a market town

Baldock was continuously settled from at least the 1st century BC until the end of the Roman occupation; the town’s history includes a late Iron Age settlement and a Romano-British small town. Baldock was therefore continuously settled during this period. Baldock was founded by the Knights Templar in the 1140s. The archaeological traces of these periods and the founding of the present-day town belong to two widely separated chapters in the town’s history.

St Mary’s Church dates from the 13th century, is architecturally and historically significant, and is listed as a Grade I building. The Baldock Museum documents the development of the modern market town. The two sites have different focuses: St Mary’s centres on a single building, while the museum explores the town’s development as a market centre. If you give different weight to historic buildings and urban development, these provide two clearly defined themes to consider when planning your trip.

The Baldock Charter Fair also links history with a recurring event: since it was established in 1199, it has been held every year in October. If you choose this period for your trip, check the current dates in advance. The Baldock Charter Market represents a trading tradition of more than 300 years. If you’d like to include the market in your plans, check the latest information for this too, as current market hours and stalls may change.

Nature reserve and tours

Weston Hills in Baldock was officially designated a Local Nature Reserve in July 2012. This designation adds a clear nature-focused element alongside the cultural themes. So, in addition to the town’s history and architecture, the destination offers another focus to consider when planning your trip.

The Ancient Baldock walking route passes through Walls Field. The Baldock Circular Ride is 16 miles long and takes three hours. The activities therefore differ in how you get around; the cycle route also has a specific time frame to consider. If you’re deciding between a walk and a cycle ride, you can take these differences into account in your plans.

Find a hotel in Baldock and plan your stay

When planning a hotel stay in Baldock, two specific questions come into play: Should a particular date be the deciding factor, or would you like to include activities in your daily itinerary? The Charter Fair is held every October, while the three-hour Circular Ride has its own time frame. You can first set your travel dates and then look for a hotel in Baldock.

Discover more destinations: Hitchin, Wadesmill, Welwyn Garden City, Benington, Tewin, Saint Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Standon

For the broader travel overview: Hertfordshire.