Welcome to the Historical Archive of Great Shelford

Nestled in the heart of Cambridgeshire, Great Shelford stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of English history. This charming village, with its picturesque streets and quintessential English charm, invites you to explore its storied past.

Our Village's Origins

Great Shelford’s history which was uncovered by history essay writer at domyessay.com is steeped in the mists of time, dating back to its mention in the Domesday Book of 1086. The village’s name itself is thought to derive from ‘Scelford’, indicating a shallow crossing (‘shelf’) over a river (‘ford’), reflective of its landscape and geography.

Medieval Times and Beyond

Throughout the medieval era, Great Shelford was a thriving agricultural community. The village church, St. Mary’s, is a gem of historical architecture, with parts dating back to the 12th century. Its presence is a testament to the village’s enduring importance in the region.

The Impact of the Railways

The arrival of the railway in the 19th century marked a significant turning point in Great Shelford’s history. It transformed the village from a primarily agricultural community into a desirable residential area, facilitating easy access to the city of Cambridge and beyond.

Modern Great Shelford

Today, Great Shelford balances modernity with tradition. It retains much of its historical charm while accommodating the needs of a contemporary community. The village continues to celebrate its heritage through various events and festivals, fostering a sense of community and continuity.

Explore and Discover

We invite you to explore Great Shelford through our historical archive. Delve into old photographs, documents, and stories that bring to life the rich history of this unique village. Whether you are a resident, a historian, or a curious visitor, Great Shelford’s past has much to offer.

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.