Roman Road, Cambridgeshire facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Cambridgeshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 12.4 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
The Roman Road in Cambridgeshire is a special natural area. It covers about 12.4 hectares and stretches like a long line. This area runs from south-east of Cambridge to north of Linton. It is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, which means it's protected for its unique nature. It's also a Scheduled Monument, meaning it's an important historical site. The Cambridgeshire County Council helps to look after it.
Contents
What is the Roman Road?
The Roman Road is a type of old path called a "green lane." It has grassy areas that are rich in lime, called calcareous grassland. There are also thick hedges and small groups of trees, known as copses. These different parts create a great home for many small creatures, like insects.
Plants and Grasses
You can find various plants and grasses growing here. Some common grasses include sheep’s-fescue and quaking-grass. These grasses give the area its unique look. There are also pretty herbs like wild carrot and purple milk-vetch. These plants add to the beauty and biodiversity of the road.
How Old is the Roman Road?
The exact age of this Roman Road is not fully known. However, experts have dug up parts of it to study its history. These studies, called archaeological excavations, confirm that it was built by the Romans. It was likely constructed sometime after the first century AD.
What Was its Purpose?
This road was not a major highway. Instead, it was a local road that connected the town of Cambridge to another important ancient route. This other route was known as the Icknield Way. So, the Roman Road helped people travel between these two points in ancient times.
Can You Visit the Roman Road?
Yes, the Roman Road is open to the public. It is a public footpath, which means you can walk along it. It is also part of a much longer walking route called the E2 European long distance path. This path stretches across many countries in Europe. So, you can enjoy a walk on this historic and natural pathway.
