The Historical Development of Bicester

This brilliant map shows the historical development of Bicester, as the town grew over the centuries.

Bicester was officially founded c.643 AD, under the name 'Berencester', although smaller individual settlements had existed in the vicinity for centuries prior to that. The town itself likely started out as two small settlements, separated by the River Bure, before merging together.

Despite it's Roman-esque name (which potentially translates to 'two forts'), Bicester began as a very much Anglo-Saxon town. It is possible that 'two forts' referenced either the two seperate initial settlements, or possibly the town's proximity to nearby Alchester (the ruins of which would still have been visible back then).

Source: British History Online.