FOSSE (or

See also:

• FOSS, EDWARD (1787-1870)

Foss) WAY  , the Early English name of a Roman road or series of roads in Britain, used later by the English, running from Lincoln by Leicester and Bath to Exeter . Almost all the Roman line is still in use as modern road or lane . It passes from Lincoln through Newark and Leicester (the Roman Ratae) to High Cross ( Venonae), where it intersects Watling Street at a point often called " the centre of England." Hence it runs to Moreton-in-the-Marsh, Cirencester, Bath and Ilchester, crosses the hills near Chard, Axminster and Honiton, and enters Exeter . Antiquaries have taken it farther, usually to Totnes, but without warrant . (See further under ERMINE STREET.) (F . J .