Braintree

With colourful, bustling market towns and picturesque villages set in the most beautiful rolling countryside, the district of Braintree has it all. From the designer shopping village to the medieval barns of the Knights Templar, jousting knights at a Norman Keep to steam railways, magnificent houses with stunning gardens and listed windmills. Do not miss the museums and heritage centres which give you a picture of an area steeped in history from Bronze Age and Roman settlements to the industrial successes within the wool, silk, lace and weaving trades.

Take a drive in the country through idyllic villages and beautiful scenery, stop for a hearty lunch at a traditional pub and sample the local ales or for the more active follow one of our many delightful trails whether you like to stroll or cycle.

The district has four delightful market towns; Braintree, Coggeshall, Halstead and Witham, each unique in their own way and worth a visit. 

Marvel at historic houses and gardens, or the landscaped woodland walks and footpaths of Marks Hall Estate, with its ever changing colours reflecting the seasons!

For heritage enthusiasts, why not pay a visit to the magnificent medieval barns of Cressing Temple, the largest of its kind in Europe or enjoy thrilling displays by jousting knights at Hedingham Castle, home to one of the best preserved Norman Keeps in Europe.

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. By the mid-19th century the opening of a railway line 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, and you can also download the Braintree Heritage Hunt, which starts at the District Museum and walks you through the town's rich heritage. The Warner Textile Archive, a nationally important archive, houses a unique collection of original artwork by leading 20th century designers - with fabric samples boasting royal connections!

There is a lot for families to do too. Visit the Colne Valley Railway where everyone can enjoy a ride on a vintage steam or diesel engine, Thomas the Tank Engine may even make an appearance too! A visit to Great Notley Country Park is a must. It’s a child’s paradise, from giant see-saws to Essex’s biggest climbing frame, a climbing forest and a toddler’s play area.