Picture a village steeped in history. That village is Impington. Nestled just three miles north of Cambridge’s bustling centre Impington boasts a rich past stretching back centuries. Impington’s name itself whispers tales of ancient origins. Some believe it derives from an Anglo-Saxon name meaning ‘Impa’s farm’. Others suggest a connection to ‘Epping’ referencing a raised platform or location. Intriguing isn’t it?
The story of Impington begins long before written records. Evidence suggests a significant Celtic settlement near the junction of Cambridge Road and Arbury Road. The Romans later occupied this strategically important location. Many of Impington’s roads follow the lines of Roman pathways. A silent testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire.
The village’s history is filled with dramatic events. In 991 AD Earl Byrhtnoth entrusted Impington to the Abbot of Ely before a fateful battle against invading Vikings. He was killed at Maldon. Impington then became the property of Ely Abbey. The Abbey later became Ely Cathedral. Impington’s lands remained under the Cathedral’s protection for centuries.
The Domesday Book of 1086 mentions Impington as ‘Epintone’. It documents a dispute between the Norman Sheriff of Cambridge and the Church over land ownership. William the Conqueror himself intervened. He ordered the sheriff to return stolen land to the Church. This land was crucial to the village.
Impington Hall a grand manor house built by John Pepys stands out in Impington’s history. It was completed by his executors for his young son Talbot. Samuel Pepys the famous diarist visited Impington Hall often. Sadly the hall burned down in 1953. It was demolished by Chivers & Sons Ltd.
Impington boasts St Andrew’s Church. Its original construction dates back to around 1130. Initially it wasn’t a parish church but rather a place for transcribing books for the Prior of Ely. Its dedication was originally to St Etheldreda. The church was extensively rebuilt in the 14th and 15th centuries. Fragments of the original fieldstone and masonry rubble construction still remain. The churchyard wall rebuilt in 2005 stands as a testament to the village’s enduring spirit.
The village also once had a National School built in 1846. It was originally a small school for 48 pupils. By 1880 its small size could no longer accommodate Impington’s growing population. The school’s foundation stone now resides in the churchyard wall a fitting tribute to Impington’s educational heritage.
Impington has evolved over time. It’s a village shaped by ancient settlements Roman roads and medieval disputes. Its people fought Vikings endured the Black Death and witnessed the growth of industry. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of Impington. A reminder that the past and present are intertwined in this remarkable place.