Ancient Byeways

Long before the advent of railways and motor cars, ancient trackways crossed the landscape. Most have disappeared under tarmac or gardens, but in a few places they remain as a sort of green corridor.

One such is Chapmans Lane. Its in all probability named after the small market traders 'Chapmen' who would have used this to get to and from local villages. So its most probably not Chapman's lane rather its Chapmans' Lane!

It survives for a considerable length between two adjoining 1950's built housing estates; again in all probability because no one could determine ownership and thus it remains. It serves no real purpose, other than to allow adjacent householders to use it as an easy way to dump unwanted grass cuttings, whilst its a nice route to walk, exercise dogs and cycle.