Stevenage is a large town in Hertfordshire located around thirty miles north of central London. It became Britain's first designated New Town in 1946 and was extensively planned and developed to accommodate population growth after the Second World War. The modern town was designed around separated residential neighbourhoods, extensive green spaces and dedicated pedestrian and cycle routes. Despite its modern character, the original Old Town preserves a much older settlement and traditional high street.
Stevenage: Historical sights and information
Facts about Stevenage
- Latitude:
- 51.903019
- Longitude:
- -0.200804
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°54' N, 00°12' W
The historical and tourist significance of the town
Stevenage's most distinctive attraction is its New Town heritage, with planned neighbourhoods, green corridors and modernist architecture reflecting post-war urban design. The historic Old Town contains traditional buildings, independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Fairlands Valley Park provides lakes, walking routes, watersports and open countryside within the town. Knebworth House and its surrounding parkland are nearby, while London, Cambridge and St Albans are convenient destinations for longer excursions.
Food, shopping and leisure
Stevenage has extensive shopping and dining facilities, including the town centre and the pedestrianised historic Old Town. Restaurants range from traditional British pubs to international cuisines reflecting the diversity of the local population. Fairlands Valley and the surrounding Hertfordshire countryside provide opportunities for walking, cycling and outdoor recreation. The town is particularly convenient for travellers because of its railway connections and proximity to major roads linking London and northern England.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Stevenage.