Part 4/8:
The remnants of the Roman road network in Britain played a significant role in medieval travel. While some of these roads had fallen into disrepair, key routes such as Watling Street remained vital for commerce and transportation.
Medieval roads varied in quality, influenced by weather and geography. Seasonal changes greatly affected travel, particularly in the winter months, when conditions became treacherous.
Maintained roads, particularly in urban centers, were crucial for fostering commerce. Local governments collected temporary tolls to fund improvements, leading to paved areas, which were a source of civic pride.