Introduction

The Fosse Way is one of England’s most enduring historic roads, originally built by the Romans but later serving as a major Anglo-Saxon route for trade, military movements, and settlement expansion. Running diagonally from Exeter to Lincoln, it was a backbone of Anglo-Saxon England, linking key territories of Wessex, Mercia, and East Anglia.

The Role of the Fosse Way in Anglo-Saxon England

After the Roman withdrawal from Britain, the Anglo-Saxons repurposed the Fosse Way as a crucial transport artery. It connected Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, allowing for the movement of merchants, armies, and settlers, making it an essential Anglo-Saxon site in early medieval Britain.

Key Features of the Fosse Way

• Strategic Military Route – Used by Anglo-Saxon rulers to defend and expand their territories, especially between Wessex and Mercia.
• Economic and Trade Hub – Market towns along the route, such as Leicester, Bath, and Cirencester, flourished due to increased trade.
• Religious and Cultural Importance – Many Anglo-Saxon churches and monasteries were established along the Fosse Way, including in Gloucester and Lincoln.

Why Visit the Fosse Way?

Exploring this ancient highway provides insight into the evolution of Anglo-Saxon England, revealing how infrastructure influenced the growth of early medieval settlements and trade.

Conclusion

The Fosse Way remains an iconic Anglo-Saxon site, offering a glimpse into how trade, warfare, and governance shaped early England.