“A curated collection of my favourite places in Essex. Hidden gems, scenic stops, cosy cafés, and independent shops I’ve discovered over the years. Whether you’re exploring or just passing through, these are the spots worth knowing about.”
Birdbrook Village
A typical Essex village hidden away. Very quiet and a collection of thatched properties and old houses. We had a drink at the local pub which was very welcoming and cosy. A great little discovery.
The Hub @Sparlings Farm - Felsted
Recently opened in Felsted at Sparlings Farm, is The Hub. A new eating place with outside seating. Situated within a working farm. It has a farm shop for local produce, fresh eggs from the abundance of chickens, as well as other animals you can see.
Priors Hall Barn - Widdington
On a recent local road trip around the villages we drove past a sign for an English Heritage Barn. We’d never been there before so did a quick stop off to take a look. It was worth it!
Thaxted Village
Thaxted is small historic town near Great Dunmow and on the way to Saffron Walden. Full of interesting historic buildings, it has a lovely old windmill, a huge church at the top of the hill and some lovely shops.
Saffron Walden - A Smart Market Town
Saffron Walden is one of my favourite places to visit. It as lovely independent shops and plenty of places to eat and drink. It also has an amazing common area near the castle which reminds me of London. A great town to visit, particularly on market day. Vibrant and busy.
Debden Barns (Wimbish) Saffron Walden
I always love visiting Debden Barns to have a pot of tea and scones but also to check out new items in the home accessories barn. I'm always guaranteed to find something quirky that grabs my attention.
Blake House Craft Centre
Blake House Craft Centre is a small collection of small independent businesses situated between Great Dunmow and Braintree. Some unique artisan shops and a renovated cafe (The Grain Shed). Look out for the Peacocks that wander around and live next door!
Hylands Park Estate - Chelmsford
Hylands Park & Estate has a grade 2 listed historical house set in 574 acres of beautiful parkland in Chelmsford (just down the road from Writtle). The estate has ancient woodlands and plenty of mapped walks ideal for dog walking.
Little Easton Manor & Barn Theatre
Little Easton Manor & Barn Theatre is a nice way to spend an hour or so walking around the grounds. The Manor House is a pretty wedding venue with formal gardens leading down to the lake.
The history of the site goes back as far as the 11th century and also boasts the Barn Theatre. The Tea Room at the Manor has great food. Worth a visit!
Rowhedge - Colchester.
Rowhedge is a hidden gem in Colchester’s crown. A lovely place with real down to earth people living here. Across the water from the more affluent Wivenhoe, this small new town has it’s own charm which we love! Another place to visit regularly for us.
The Hythe - Maldon
The Hythe at Maldon is delightful place to visit, with it’s historic tall ships, curved shoreline and the quayside. It has a promenade to walk to the impressive statue of the viking warrior at the end. A great place to walk dogs, a water park for children and a couple of waterside pubs. The perfect day out and place to visit in Essex!
Cressing Temple Barns
Cressing Temple Barns was a real unexpected find! On our doorstep for so many years, but a recent discovery for us. Worth a visit to explore a collection of historic barns dating back to 1137. You'll love it, particularly the Tudor Garden.
Tollesbury Marina
Tollesbury Marina was a brilliant find a few years ago. If you like coastal shoreline, salt marshes and boats, you need to visit here for sure!
Mersea Island
West Mersea Island is a perfect way to spend the day. You'll need to check the tide timetable so you don't get stuck going on or off the Island. It has an abundance of seafood and Oysters and Oysters fro here are supplied to many Michelin star restaurants. One of our favourite pubs is located here, the Coast Inn. A great place for kids to go crabbing on the jetty.
Coggeshall
Coggeshall is lovely town between Braintree and Marks Tey on the way to Colchester (and just off the A120). It is very historic to walk around and admire the lovely properties. Not too many places to stop for a coffee or have lunch but there are a few pubs which we’ve not yet tried.
Great Bardfield Village
Great Bardfield is another frequent place we love to visit. I love the bookshop (there is always an interesting selection of books on offer). The village has a good pub The Vine and a small gaol (the cage) from days gone by, when the drunk and disorderly where locked up for the night. Many artists have lived here including Grayson Perry from the age of 14. A pretty village.
Rumblebees Bookshop and Cafe - Felsted Village
Enjoying a visit to Rumblebees bookshop and cafe in the heart of Felsted Village. It’s always good to pop in with our dog for a coffee and a chat. A great selection of books too!