The Hornsey Turnpike, a road that once stretched through this very spot, was a busy thoroughfare. A vital link between London and the north, it buzzed with activity for over a century. The road was so important that it was even given a turnpike gate in 1765, a toll that required travelers to pay for its upkeep. Before that, people could cross the road freely.
Today, though, all that remains of the Hornsey Turnpike is a small plaque marking its former location. It’s hard to imagine, standing here now, the bustling scene of horse-drawn carriages and weary travelers making their way into London. The Turnpike was a testament to the desire to make travel easier, and it was crucial for local trade and the growth of the surrounding areas.
Perhaps the most interesting fact about the Hornsey Turnpike is how it became obsolete. In the 19th century, the era of steam and railways dawned, and the road became less important. It was eventually demolished in 1872 to make way for the expanding railway network. This once vital route was swallowed by the advancements of technology. If you look to your right, you can see the site of the former Hornsey station, where the bustling network of railways connected the city to the north.
Today, the Hornsey Turnpike is a reminder of a bygone era. It’s a silent witness to the changing face of London, a city that has never stopped evolving. It’s a testament to the enduring human spirit that seeks to advance and improve travel, but also a reminder that progress can sometimes leave behind the things that came before. You may not even notice the plaque on this corner but it contains within it the story of a road that was crucial to London’s history.