Walks and rides around Braintree

 

Braintree has a long and fascinating history - emerging from a Bronze Age valley settlement as an important and flourishing market town located at the crossroads of two Roman roads.

The 14th century woollen cloth trade brought prosperity to the area leaving a legacy of fine architecture and listed buildings whilst the 18th century heralded the arrival of silk weaving and the famous Huguenot name of Courtauld. Generations of this generous family not only provided the increasing population with work and housing but also donated many public buildings including the magnificent former Town Hall. The grand central tower with striking clock dominates the Market Square whilst inside murals by Maurice Greiffenhagen depict scenes of Braintree's history. A bronze fountain of a young boy with shell and fish, designed by John Hodge, standing alongside St Michael's Church was yet another gift to the people of Braintree. By the mid 19th century the opening of a railway line offered the opportunity to transport bulk materials, which led to the establishment of large engineering firms such as Crittall's metal window company and Lake & Elliot iron foundry. A full story of Braintree's diverse industrial heritage and traditions is told at the District Museum in the town centre.

 

Below are some itineraries for you to download. Just click on the image to download the PDF.
If you have any routes you would like to share with the online community then please contact us via email.