Flat. That's the word that best describes East Anglia.
The level landscape imparts a sense of space and freedom, and also allows opportunities for easy walks and cycling. Much of that landscape was under water until several centuries ago; prodigious drainage projects from the Middle Ages onward have reclaimed land that was once best navigated in a flat-bottomed boat.
East Anglia has long been England's arable farming centre. The flat expanses of land are ideal for growing crops of wheat and barley. Leisure pursuits are also provided by this landscape, with the Fens and Broads an ideal setting for boating holidays. There are also many historical towns and cities such as the historic market town of Bedford the seaside ton of Maldon.
Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire form the bump on England's eastern side. The area is directly to the north of London, and has preserved much of its unspoilt character, rural landscape, architecture and traditions.
The region is particularly noted for its traditional market towns
and outstanding examples of historic architecture - flint, thatch and timber-framed buildings, plus fine country houses. There is also Britain's best collection of cathedrals and churches
Because of its proximity to London and the economic magnetism which that city exerts, many of East Anglia's settlements function as dormitory towns or villages where London workers raise their families. Essex, as one,is known for being the origin of the political term Essex man, and of the Essex girl joke. |
