Fen Ditton is a historic village located on the northeast edge of Cambridge, England. With roots stretching back to ancient times, Fen Ditton offers a unique blend of rich history and picturesque riverside charm.
Location
Historical Background
The name “Fen Ditton” was first recorded around 950 AD as “Dittone”, meaning “the village by the ditch”[4]. This refers to the Fleam Dyke, an ancient earthwork that passed through the village. The “Fen” prefix was added later to distinguish it from Wood Ditton[4].
Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in the area dates back to Neolithic times, with stone tools discovered in the meadows between the village and the River Cam[4].
Medieval Period and Beyond
During the Middle Ages, Fen Ditton played a significant role in local commerce due to its position on the River Cam. A large wharf at the western end of High Street facilitated trade for the annual Stourbridge Fair between the 12th and 14th centuries[4]. The village’s connection to the river remained important until the mid-19th century when the opening of the London-Cambridge railway line diminished its commercial significance[4].
The manor of Fen Ditton has a long association with the Church of Ely. In the 10th century, it was bequeathed to Ely Abbey, and by the 12th century, it had passed to the Bishop of Ely[1]. The manor remained under episcopal ownership until 1600 when it was taken by the Crown[1].
Village Development
Fen Ditton experienced significant growth in the early 19th century. The number of houses increased from 49 in 1801 to 114 in 1831, with an additional 35 houses added by 1891[2]. This expansion primarily occurred along High Street and Horningsea Road[2].
The village layout evolved over time, with the main road shifting from between the river and the church to the east of the church by the 17th century[4]. In the 18th century, a new road was constructed on higher ground, linking Newmarket Road to Fen Ditton and Horningsea, which now serves as the main route through the village[4].
Notable Features
Fen Ditton boasts several historic buildings, including:
- The Church of St Mary the Virgin, parts of which date back to the 12th century.
- Fen Ditton Hall, a 17th-century manor house.
- The Ancient Shepherds, originally built as cottages in 1540 and later converted into a public house[4].
Modern Fen Ditton
Today, Fen Ditton is known for its association with the annual rowing races called The Bumps. This connection is reflected in the church’s weather vane, which takes the form of a rowing eight[4].
The village maintains its rural character despite its proximity to Cambridge. It has managed to retain much of its historical charm, with efforts by residents and heritage groups to preserve its environment[1].
Fen Ditton continues to attract visitors with its own Gallery (Fen Ditton Gallery) riverside views, historic pubs, and picturesque setting. While it has evolved over the centuries, it remains a testament to the rich history of the Cambridgeshire region.
Citations:
[1] https://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/cambs/vol10/pp118-123
[2] https://www.scambs.gov.uk/media/8523/fen-ditton_0.pdf
[3] https://www.british-history.ac.uk/rchme/cambs/vol2/pp47-65
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fen_Ditton
[5] https://rah.co.uk/area-guide/cambridge-villages-east/fen-ditton/
[6] https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/stunning-cambs-village-almost-absorbed-27512170
[7] https://capturingcambridge.org/places-in-south-cambridgeshire/fen-ditton/ditton-hall-fen-ditton/
[8] https://www.dittoncorner.co.uk/roots/fen-ditton-history/
