Medieval Roads and Tracks

by Brian Paul Hindle

The medieval economy was centred on a phenomenal growth in trade of all kinds of goods, yet few have studied the actual network of roads that was so vital to medieval trading. Starting with the basic concept of a 'road' in medieval times, and discussing the increasing need to travel, this book explores the evidence from documents and maps that provide clues as to where the roads of medieval Britain led, connecting the study of individual roads together to paint an image of the broader road network. The author also uses findings from archaeological surveys and bird's-eye-view photographs to trace the centuries-old routes and illustrate the winding tracks that once carried goods to market.

Genres: History

64 pages, Paperback

First published July 10, 2008

Reviews

[Richard Newbold · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and thought provoking book, taking the problem of how to trace medieval tracks which did not go on to eventually become part of the metalled road network we have today. The most compelling documentary evidence are the royal itineraries and particular attention is given to accumulating the records of 13th century monarchs to "map" the road network in medieval times. The author (it is a 64 page booklet) does not attempt a comprehensive survey, and the individual chapters, particularly the one on Chester's roads, are illustrative of the way these roads developed. Recommended for those interested in what might be considered a "byway" of our land's history.

[Steve Dewey · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short but interesting introduction to roads and tracks in the medieval period, with some useful ideas on finding them and thinking about them, and how to begin researching them.

[Blair Hodgkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book addressed a lot of my questions about what is known of the medieval English road network. I only wish that the map showing this projected network had place names!

[Keiran Thegreat · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the excellent Shire series of books. This book focuses upon medieval roads (as the title implies) and hollow ways. A great introduction to this specific subject presented in enough detail to enlighten but not to such a degree as to lose the general reader. Illustrations, diagrams and photographs add to the book significantly.