Learn more about the 15th-century Deepings landmark that became a Regency jail

When it comes to local history and heritage, we Peterborians are very lucky in the regard we have so many sights of historical interest to enjoy in and around our city.

Of course, we are all familiar with the well-known big-hitters, like Peterborough Cathedral and Flag Fen, which enjoy perennial visits from history buffs and casual sightseers alike all throughout the year.

However, there are plenty of other local sights which are every bit as interesting yet, through no fault of their own, remain relatively unknown.

Deeping St James Cross was built in the 15th century.

placeholder image — Deeping St James Cross was built in the 15th century.

The Deeping St James Cross is one such place.

Built in the 15th century in the centre of the large village of Deeping St James, this medieval monument is well worth checking out, standing incongruously on a cobbled area just south of the Priory Church of St James.

Now a Grade 1 listed building, this stone cross was initially constructed to help serve the market centre of the village.

Stone crosses of this kind were common sights during this period, with estimates suggesting more than 12,000 would have been sited across Britain by the late middle ages.

It is believed fewer than 2,000 examples still exist today.

The free-standing market cross at Deeping St James served its purpose diligently for several hundred years before an abrupt change in outlook saw it repurposed during the Regency period.

In 1819, the 4m-high cross – which housed a small stone-built chamber – was converted into a gaol (jail) cell.

According to the signage which now stands beside the monument, the lock-up could “house up to three people overnight, before being taken to the magistrate next morning.”

Evidently, the structure was often used for the temporary detention of drunk or disorderly locals.

Peeking inside the locked oak door with barred grille reveals very little space, with perhaps four square-metres of bare stone flooring and walls with modest recesses set within for seating.

The nearby sign states the gaol’s ‘guests’ would not have expected any luxuries in terms of being fed and watered:

“Between those bars a long spouted tea kettle was thrust – if you were lucky!”

It goes without saying that the structure stopped catering to miscreants and inebriates many years ago. Many locals of a certain vintage recall that, as children, they could play inside the cross as, back then, there wasn’t a locked door. For many years, there was also a street lamp mounted on top of the structure, but this was removed when the cross was renovated by the local parish council in 1999.

Happily, the cross retains much of its charm and heritage, with its 15th-century perpendicular style limestone base and medieval carvings perfectly intact. Above the door lintel, the inscription "REBUILT 1819" is perfectly legible.

So, while it may not boast the grandeur or gravitas of a cathedral or a Bronze Age causeway, the Deeping St James Cross is still a gem of place to visit and appreciate, regardless of whether you’re a history buff or not.