Brentwood’s name is derived from ‘Burnt Wood’, referring to a clearing made in the dense forest covering this part of Essex by a fire. Over time, it became a stopping point for pilgrims travelling to Canterbury and the remains of a 12th Century chapel in the town centre bear testimony to this. When Henry III granted a royal charter to hold markets, Brentwood developed into a place of commerce and today, its bustling High Street and surrounding roads reflects that this is still a well-to-do town, yet surrounded by beautiful open spaces and historic locations to explore. Independent shops and popular restaurants, along with a vibrant club scene make Brentwood an exciting place to visit. Visit the website www.discoverbrentwood.co.uk
Discover Brentwood
Images from around the borough
Ingatestone Hall
Thorndon Country Park
St Thomas the Martyr
Old MacDonald's Farm
The Sugar Hut
Brentwood’s numerous Country Parks are havens for nature-lovers, walkers and families alike. Thorndon Park is home to the famous Gruffalo Trail and there’s real animal magic at Old MacDonald’s Farm on the outskirts of the town. If you’re a fan of alpine sports, over at Brentwood Park you can get your snowsports kicks all year round. Next door is a fantastic kart track and the park’s amenities also offer a golf-driving range and a Chinese restaurant.
Cyclists will enjoy exploring the leafy lanes and charming villages such as Ingatestone and Mountnessing, that dot the beautiful rolling countryside around Brentwood.
The TV show ‘The Only Way Is Essex’ thrust Brentwood into the national spotlight as a popular tourist destination and inspired the ‘TOWIE Trail’. For some serious retail therapy, Crown Street and the characterful old streets leading off Brentwood High Street are a must-visit destination, as are the High Streets of Shenfield and Ingatestone.
Two very different aspects of British history are reflected in Ingatestone Hall and the Secret Nuclear Bunker in Kelvedon Hatch. Built in the 16th century, Ingatestone Hall is still home to the Petre family, who hosted Elizabeth I on several occasions, whilst the bunker is an eerily fascinating, subterranean reminder of the Cold War era.
Well-served by the M25, A12 and A127 road network, and just under half an hour to the City of London by train, Brentwood is ideal as a base from which to enjoy Essex and the Capital. For further information visit www.discoverbrentwood.co.uk
Brentwood’s numerous Country Parks are havens for nature-lovers, walkers and families alike. Thorndon Park is home to the famous Gruffalo Trail and there’s real animal magic at Old MacDonald’s Farm on the outskirts of the town.
Two very different aspects of British history are reflected in Ingatestone Hall and the Secret Nuclear Bunker in Kelvedon Hatch. Built in the 16th century, Ingatestone Hall is still home to the Petre family, who hosted Elizabeth I on several occasions, whilst the bunker is an eerily fascinating, subterranean reminder of the Cold War era.
Well-served by the M25, A12 and A127 road network, and just under half an hour to the City of London by train, Brentwood is ideal as a base from which to enjoy Essex and the Capital.
Highlights of the area
Located in the heart of Brentwood, the community theatre is often called 'the jewel in the crown of Brentwood'. So come along for a great night out and enjoy the many shows on offer.
16th century mansion built by Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four monarchs, whose family continue to reside here. Contains family portraits, furniture and memorabilia accumulated over the centuries.
Three-storey ex-government regional HQ nuclear bunker buried some 80ft underground. Complete with kitchen, dormitories, power and filtration plant, plotting floor, government administration room, 120-yard long entrance tunnel, communication and scientists’ room.
More highlights
Located at the Secret Nuclear Bunker site (you could combine a visit) this is the place to come for adrenaline filled activities including high ropes, archery, paintball, tunnelling, water zorbing and much more.
Award-winning leisure and educational animal attraction. Explore the farm for Old MacDonald’s farmyard favourites and exotic animals plus indoor and outdoor leisure activities.
The woods are rich in birdlife and attract many species of migrant and over-wintering birds. The open parkland at Thorndon South is busy with families enjoying barbecues and picnics. It’s also a great place to fly a kite.
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Featured accommodation
Hotel with 56 rooms, £150 prpnb, Brentwood
Beautifully presented and centrally located, just minutes from M25/J28, our Tudor Manor House, with a selection of period function and meeting rooms, provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion.
Hotel with 149 rooms, £149-£220 prpnb, Brentwood
A modern hotel on the outskirts of the town and convenient for the M25 motorway and A12 to East Anglia.
More things to enjoy
Brentwood 01277 261343
Enjoy over 500 acres of woodland, lakes, meadows, open grassland and spectacular views at Weald Country Park. The park is famous for its wildlife, including fallow deer, cattle, herons, mallard ducks and other water birds.
Brentwood 01277 261343
Located in South Weald in Essex, Weald Country Park is a 700 year-old, 500 acre country park.
Brentwood 01277 261343
Visit the Stick Man Play Trail at Weald Country Park for great family fun across our seven areas of interactive themed play equipment.
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