Market Towns

At the time of the Domesday Book, Atherstone is mentioned as a small settlement on the line of the Roman Road - Watling Street, which runs directly through the centre of the town.

 

Atherstone was established as a market town during the late 11th Century, but it wasn't until the 16th Century that it became famous for its thriving trade of cloth, wool, and felt, which then became the basis for the 19th Century hat trade. A felt hat producing town for 300 years, Atherstone prospered at a time when it was fashionable for men to wear hats. As fashion became more casual after the Second World War, trade declined, with the closure of the last factory in 1999.

 

As well as the hatting industry, many residents of Atherstone worked in the local coal mines.

 

Accessibility

Atherstone has good communication links:

• It is 22 miles from Birmingham and 16 miles from Coventry.
• The M6, M42 and A5(T) are all within easy distance of Atherstone.
• Birmingham International Airport lies within 15 minutes drive of the town. East Midlands and Coventry Airports are also within easy reach
• Atherstone Railway Station - Hourly service between London and Crewe.

Demographics

• Around 8,600 people live in Atherstone
• Since 1991, the number of jobs have risen by over 3%
• TNT UK has its headquarters in Atherstone

Events

The famous Atherstone Ball Game has been played through the streets of Atherstone every Shrove Tuesday since the Middle Ages.
Another annual event in the town is the ever popular Dickens Night. The event, which is held in November, recreates the town's Victorian era and includes the switching on of the Christmas lights.

 

Shopping

There are around 150 traders in the town centre who offer a wide range of goods and services for local people and visitors. Somerfield and the Co-op are the main supermarkets.

 

Other

Leisure Centre including gym and swimming pool