Great Shelford
Great Shelford is a village located approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) to the south of Cambridge, in Cambridgeshire, in eastern England. In 1850 Great Shelford parish contained 1,900 acres (7.7 km2) bisected by the River Cam. The population in 1841 was 803 people.By 2001, this had grown to 3,949 and by the Census 2011 to 4,233. It was described as Britain’s twenty-second richest village in 2011.
History of Great Shelford
In Victorian times, academics from the University of Cambridge established their homes in Great Shelford, which evolved into a commuter hub in the 20th century. Yet, the layout of the original settlement remains discernible. The heart of the current village is positioned between two historical Anglo-Saxon settlements, one located on the grounds of a former Romano-British village and the other closer to Little Shelford.
The most popular landmark
The parish church of Saint Mary the Virgin in Great Shelford, standing for 600 years, was constructed around 1400, funded by Thomas Patesley, likely replacing a Norman church. It underwent significant changes, including the loss of original stained glass by Puritan iconoclast William Dowsing in 1643 and the replacement of its stone spire and tower in the early 19th century. The interior, featuring a Minton-tiled floor, was restored during Revd A.T. Crisford’s incumbency. Notable features include a “Doom” painting of the Last Judgment, a 15th-century chancel screen with the Green Man carvings, a 1636 pulpit, and a parclose screen. The font’s plinth bears the diocese of Ely’s arms, and there’s accommodation for a curate above the porch, with the church also housing a ring of 8 bells.
Social life in Great Shelford
Great Shelford boasts a diverse array of businesses and amenities, including a wine shop that doubles as a bar, two pubs, a couple of dining venues, a public library, multiple real estate offices, two barber shops, a financial institution, a pharmacy, a dental clinic, a law firm, an accounting firm, a specialty delicatessen, a bakery, and a plant nursery. The village also hosts a Farmers’ Market each month. Shelford railway station, which connects Great and Little Shelford on the West Anglia Main Line, offers direct services between Cambridge and London Liverpool Street. Additionally, the former Great Shelford library was torn down to make way for a new development that includes affordable homes, a project undertaken by the Bedfordshire Pilgrims Housing Association.
Pubs in Great Shelford
The Three Horseshoes:
A classic choice among the locals.
The Great Shefford:
Located at Newbury Rd, Great Shefford, Hungerford RG17 7DS, Great Britain
Red Lion:
Known for its welcoming ambiance.
The Tickell Arms:
Offers a blend of traditional and modern pub experiences.
The Green Man:
A popular spot for its lively setting.
The Navigator:
Known for its unique offerings.
Square & Compasses:
Located at 46 High Street, Great Shelford, this pub is well-regarded for its British cuisine and bar atmosphere.
For dining options, Great Shelford has a variety of restaurants to choose from:
Zara Indian Cuisine:
This award-winning Indian restaurant is known for its sophisticated dining experience and substantial wine list.
Forum House:
A Chinese restaurant located at 52-54 Woollards Lane, offering Cantonese cuisine along with other Asian dishes.
Royal Oak:
Another Indian restaurant that’s part of Great Shelford’s culinary scene.
The Plough:
Specializing in British cuisine.
Square & Compasses:
Also doubles as a restaurant with a British menu.
Houses for sale in great shefford
Regarding real estate, Great Shelford offers a range of properties for sale, including:
A 4-bedroom detached house on London Road, Stapleford: Priced at around £1,050,000.
A 6-bedroom detached house on the same road: Listed for £1,750,000.
Another impressive 4-bedroom detached house on Hinton Way: With a guide price of £1,195,000.
A 2-bedroom end of terrace house on Chaston Road: Available for £350,000.
A 6-bedroom detached house in Coppice Avenue: This spacious property is listed for £2,250,000.
Great Shelford offers a rich mix of traditional and modern amenities, making it an attractive place for both residents and visitors.
Why We Need to Go to Great Shefford
Great Shelford is an appealing destination for its blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. The village is home to the historic Saint Mary the Virgin parish church, a remarkable structure with a rich history dating back 600 years, offering a glimpse into England’s architectural and religious past. Beyond its historical allure, Great Shelford boasts a variety of shops and services, including unique local pubs, diverse restaurants, and a monthly Farmers’ Market. The presence of the Shelford railway station provides convenient access to Cambridge and London, making it an ideal spot for both short visits and longer stays. With its picturesque setting and a mix of traditional and contemporary amenities, Great Shelford offers a unique experience for visitors seeking to explore the English countryside.