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More info: The Fenland region has undergone some of the most radical environmental
changes of any landscape in Europe.
Looking at its mosaic of ruthlessly rectangular fields
and carefully cultivated crops, its long straight dykes and roads, it
is difficult to believe that this area was once a wetland maze of 'black
waters overhung by fog', 'wooded islands', and the 'windings of tortuous
streams'. But this is the landscape, already very ancient, that St Guthlac's
biographer described in the 8th century, and which Fenmen of the 18th
century would have recognised.
This cycle route will take you through 150 million years
of landscape change, from monstrous marine reptiles to medieval marshes
and the bricks that rebuilt London.
Acknowledgements:
This
cycle ride has been created by Peterborough Environment City (PECT) and
makes use of the Peterborough Millennium Green Wheel. The Green Wheel
is a network of routes in and around Peterborough and is integrated with
the Peterborough Cycle Network and the National Cycle Network. A detailed
Tourism and Cycle Map can be obtained from PECT.
The
internationally renowned Flag Fen Bronze
Age Visitor Centre is located just off the circular route but is well
worth the short diversion. Entry to the visitor centre and café
is free and on presentation of a printout of this web page with the Flag
Fen logo you will be given a 20% discount off the entry cost to the site
and exhibition hall (not valid for special events or ticket only events).
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