This is a section of one of the Roman roads known as Ermine Street. Ermine Street was one of the main roads that the Romans constructed. 

It was the main artery that stretched along the eastern side of England from the settlement at York to London. These two cities became very important in the history of Britain. London of course evolving into the modern capital city of the country, and York which is widely regarded as the “capital of the north”. 

Both settlements have played an invaluable role in the development of modern Britain.

The Romans built the roads to help control their new province. Their role is twofold. Firstly the roads were ideal for moving military units to and from trouble spots, and the second function is that they helped and encouraged trade within the local and of course national area.

Their legacy is that many modern roads follow almost exactly the same or parallel routes. This demonstrates the skill and expertise of the Roman route planners.

The roads were in most places perfectly straight and took the most direct, efficient course. Carefully built and maintained by the Roman legions. Not only were they the most effective fighting force of their age, but they were also skilled builders.