Shipston is a small town of great antiquity. It was originally a Saxon settlement near a ford that was used as a sheep wash.
In 1268 Henry III granted a charter to "Shepeston" (as it was then spelt), giving the town the right to hold markets and a three day fair (10th-12th June). During the 17th and early 18th centuries the town experienced a period of industrial prosperity as a result of the lively plush and shag weaving industry. These were versatile materials used for all manner of goods from labourers’ trousers to lavish curtains.
Shipston still retains many interesting Georgian houses and inns with fine doorways and doorknockers, harking back to the industrial boom period, and a wealth of architectural features that are found on exploration of this vibrant market town. It is an intersting place for visitors with quaint alleyways and an interesting range of local galleries and shops.
Shipston’s history adds to the character of Shakespeare’s County with the historic towns Stratford-Upon-Avon and Warwick both less than 15 miles away. Shipston is near the Roman road - the Fosse Way - in a district studded with picturesque villages, and many Roman artefacts have been discovered locally. The beautiful Cotswolds are on the town’s doorstep, and old battlefields of the English Civil War are within easy reach.
Heritage Walks - explore the town
Take a couple of hours to explore Shipston’s local treasures - imagine how this rural market town developed over the years from the time of the Domesday Book, through Shakespeare’s time as Stratford and Warwick became hugely important in middle England and through the town’s industrial heyday that created many of the beautiful streets and buildings that still exist today.
Shipston to Brailes cycle route
This cycle route combines both the heritage and uniquely attractive landscape of the South Warwickshire countryside. The route highlights 12 key features of the area and gives an insight into the lives of the people who lived in the area and the relationship between the way of life and the landscape. Local bike hire is available.
Middle of everywhere
Once the local attractions have been explored, Shipston is an ideal location from which to explore some of England’s finest tourist attractions and offers a wonderful contrast and true glimpse of local life to that of a big city stay such as London, Birmingham or Manchester.
