The Fens

at Wicken Fen]] The Fens are very low-lying compared with the chalk and limestone uplands that surround them – in most places no more than 10 m above sea level. As a result of drainage and the subsequent shrinkage of the peat fens, many parts of the Fens now lie below mean sea level. Although one writer in the 17th century described the Fenland as entirely above sea level (in contrast to the Netherlands), the area now includes the lowest land in the United Kingdom. Holme Fen in Cambridgeshire is around 2.75 metre below sea level. Within the Fens are a few hills which have historically been called "islands", as they remained dry when the low-lying fens around them were flooded. The largest…

, the design has gained widespread popularity as the de facto flag of the region. The tiger is a homage to the term "Fen Tiger", which was originally coined in the 17th century to describe locals who exhibited fierce resistance to the drainage schemes in the Fens. The yellow symbolises the agricultural prosperity of the Fens, while the blue represents both the natural and man-made waterways of the region.]] Some authors have featured the Fens repeatedly in their work. For example: The following fictions, or substantial portions of them, are set in the Fens: Some films have large portions set in the Fenlands: And television: Music: Video games also have been set in the Fens: