Cheryl's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Dedham Vale is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Stour Valley is John Constable Country situated on the Suffolk and Essex border. A mecca for lovers of the English landscape painter John Constable who was born in East Bergholt in Dedham Vale in 1776, the area features many historic buildings and the recognisable Stour Valley landscape which Constable studied and painted.
The National Trust visitor centre at Flatford in beautiful Bridge House is a central focus for many visitors to Constable Country. From Flatford a gentle trail leads off to Dedham village running parallel with the River Stour. Alternatively you can opt for a boat trip or row boat hire available near the National Trust’s centre in Bridge House.
The villages of Dedham Vale in Suffolk and Essex contain a wide choice of historic traditional inns serving fine ales and locally produced food.
The National Trust Visitor Centre at Flatford contains an extensive exhibition on John Constable and the Dedham Vale landscape which he studied and painted. Guides are available from the visitor centre detailing beautiful riverside trails leading to key locations which featured in Constable’s river Stour paintings.These include
Willy Lott's house, featured in Constable's painting 'The Hay Wain'.
These include just up from Bridge Cottage Willy Lott’s House which still survives and featured in Constable’s ‘The Hay Wain’ (1821). Flatford Mill near Willy Lott’s House has seen change since Constable’s day. The Mill was owned by three generations of the Constable family in the Georgian period. Close to Flatford Mill is Valley Farm which featured in pencil drawings by Constable.
The Granary once owned by John Constable’s father located near Flatford Mill has been beautifully restored and now offers bed and breakfast accommodation. Across the Stour from the National Trust Centre and Flatford Mill sits another of Constable’s famously painted sites, Flatford Lock. Visitors can then choose from a selection of walking trails which branch out from Flatford hamlet through Constable country to either Manningtree or Dedham village across the border in Essex.
The popular walking trail to Dedham village from Flatford is truly to tread in the footsteps of Constable with views of beautiful Dedham Parish Church in the distance. The walk runs parallel with the river Stour and is gentle and easily done in less than an hour.
65 recommandé par les habitants
Dedham
Dedham Vale is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Stour Valley is John Constable Country situated on the Suffolk and Essex border. A mecca for lovers of the English landscape painter John Constable who was born in East Bergholt in Dedham Vale in 1776, the area features many historic buildings and the recognisable Stour Valley landscape which Constable studied and painted.
The National Trust visitor centre at Flatford in beautiful Bridge House is a central focus for many visitors to Constable Country. From Flatford a gentle trail leads off to Dedham village running parallel with the River Stour. Alternatively you can opt for a boat trip or row boat hire available near the National Trust’s centre in Bridge House.
The villages of Dedham Vale in Suffolk and Essex contain a wide choice of historic traditional inns serving fine ales and locally produced food.
The National Trust Visitor Centre at Flatford contains an extensive exhibition on John Constable and the Dedham Vale landscape which he studied and painted. Guides are available from the visitor centre detailing beautiful riverside trails leading to key locations which featured in Constable’s river Stour paintings.These include
Willy Lott's house, featured in Constable's painting 'The Hay Wain'.
These include just up from Bridge Cottage Willy Lott’s House which still survives and featured in Constable’s ‘The Hay Wain’ (1821). Flatford Mill near Willy Lott’s House has seen change since Constable’s day. The Mill was owned by three generations of the Constable family in the Georgian period. Close to Flatford Mill is Valley Farm which featured in pencil drawings by Constable.
The Granary once owned by John Constable’s father located near Flatford Mill has been beautifully restored and now offers bed and breakfast accommodation. Across the Stour from the National Trust Centre and Flatford Mill sits another of Constable’s famously painted sites, Flatford Lock. Visitors can then choose from a selection of walking trails which branch out from Flatford hamlet through Constable country to either Manningtree or Dedham village across the border in Essex.
The popular walking trail to Dedham village from Flatford is truly to tread in the footsteps of Constable with views of beautiful Dedham Parish Church in the distance. The walk runs parallel with the river Stour and is gentle and easily done in less than an hour.
Colchester is a market town in Essex, and is the first city in Britain that was founded by the Romans. For a period of time it became the capital of Roman Britain, and is part of the Most Ancient European Towns Network. Right on the banks of the River Colne, Colchester is situated in an ideal location, which makes it popular with commuters. It’s 50 miles northeast of London, and is less than 30 miles from London Stansted Airport and Harwich port. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, Colchester is a thriving place with plenty of things to do. From impressive visitor attractions to a great choice of shopping and places to eat and drink, Colchester is the perfect place for a short getaway.
A Roman History of Colchester
Back when it was founded by the Romans, Colchester was called Camulodunum, meaning The Fortress of the War God Camulos. Although the Emperor Claudius was only in Britain for 16 days, it was long enough for him to establish his rule, building a fortress on the highest ground, which is now the town centre. The Roman Wall was built to defend Colchester, and today is the oldest and longest remaining town wall in Britain. You can walk the entire wall on a two mile path. Look out for the Balkerne Gate, which was the original entrance to the town.
Colchester was also home to the only known Roman chariot-racing Circus in Britain, and you can visit the excavated foundations of this once monumental structure. There are many other Roman remains to be seen, from houses and churches, to a Roman theatre in the Dutch Quarter – all which will give you an insight into their everyday life.
Things To Do in Colchester
East Anglian Railway Museum
The East Anglian Railway Museum is a must for those with an interest in steam engines. There are plenty of areas to explore on a day out, from hands-on exhibitions at the Heritage Centre, to discovering the behind-the-scenes work that goes on inside the Restoration Shed. The museum is family friendly, with events taking place throughout the year, as well as regular rides on the miniature railway. Adults can also learn to operate a full size steam locomotive by booking a Driver Experience day.
Colchester Zoo
With over 260 species of animals, Colchester Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country. There are a wide range of habitats and zones, including the Orangutan Forest and the Kingdom of the Wild, where you can encounter rhinos, giraffes, ostrich and zebra. The zoo is very interactive, offering you the opportunity to feed the elephants and giraffes, and walk through a glade of exotic butterflies and plants. Colchester Zoo is also home to a number of species rarely seen in the UK, including sun bears and the Colombian black spider monkey.
FSC Flatford Mill
Not far from Colchester, the Field Studies Centre at FSC Flatford Mill provides practical courses in subjects such as Local History, Wildlife, The Arts, Crafts, and Photography. Offering both day courses and residential courses, this is an inspiring place to learn new skills, surrounded by the same picturesque countryside that inspired Constable’s paintings.
When visiting Colchester, you should definitely make a stop at Colchester Castle. The largest Norman keep in Europe, it was built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. The castle offers special guided tours where you can venture down to see the huge vaults and climb to the castle roof and take in the panoramic views. The Castle Museum exhibits some of the best finds in Britain, such as the Roman Colchester Vase, Celtic coin hoards, mosaics and medieval paintings and war armour.
Firstsite
A short walk away from the Castle grounds is Firstsite, a contemporary visual arts organisation. The impressively designed building is home to a varied programme of exhibitions, commissions, residencies and screenings from a range of national and international artists. Firstsite also has a wide range of creative events and activities for the whole family, including art and craft courses, live theatre, opera and ballet and workshops and talks.
Dutch Quarter
The Dutch Quarter can be found just north of Colchester High Street. This area was home to Flemish Protestant refugees in the 16th century, who had escaped persecution after their defeat in the rebellion against Catholic Spain. The Dutch Quarter is a great place to walk around and admire the architecture, as the area is filled with beautiful black and white timber framed houses. You’ll also find the home of Jane and Anne Taylor, who wrote the nursery rhyme Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
Mersea Island
A half hour drive to the southeast of Colchester will take you to Mersea Island. Joined to the mainland by a causeway, the island has long attracted holidaymakers to its sandy shores and colourful beach huts. Mersea Island is well-known for its seafood, which is caught fresh off the coast. The oysters are particularly sought out, and were a staple for the Romans. Watersports such as sailing, kitesurfing and stand up paddling are a popular activity here, as the waters are calm and shallow.
Shopping in Colchester
Colchester is a fantastic place to shop. For big name brands, head to Culver Square and Lion Walk, the town’s two largest indoor shopping centres. For fresh local produce, meats and cheese, fashion, jewellery and lots more, visit Colchester Market, held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. If you prefer something a little different, Colchester is the place to be. Find handmade candles and bath products, unique gifts, retro buys, traditional toys, home decor and antique goods at the many independent shops dotted around the town.
70 recommandé par les habitants
Colchester
Colchester is a market town in Essex, and is the first city in Britain that was founded by the Romans. For a period of time it became the capital of Roman Britain, and is part of the Most Ancient European Towns Network. Right on the banks of the River Colne, Colchester is situated in an ideal location, which makes it popular with commuters. It’s 50 miles northeast of London, and is less than 30 miles from London Stansted Airport and Harwich port. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, Colchester is a thriving place with plenty of things to do. From impressive visitor attractions to a great choice of shopping and places to eat and drink, Colchester is the perfect place for a short getaway.
A Roman History of Colchester
Back when it was founded by the Romans, Colchester was called Camulodunum, meaning The Fortress of the War God Camulos. Although the Emperor Claudius was only in Britain for 16 days, it was long enough for him to establish his rule, building a fortress on the highest ground, which is now the town centre. The Roman Wall was built to defend Colchester, and today is the oldest and longest remaining town wall in Britain. You can walk the entire wall on a two mile path. Look out for the Balkerne Gate, which was the original entrance to the town.
Colchester was also home to the only known Roman chariot-racing Circus in Britain, and you can visit the excavated foundations of this once monumental structure. There are many other Roman remains to be seen, from houses and churches, to a Roman theatre in the Dutch Quarter – all which will give you an insight into their everyday life.
Things To Do in Colchester
East Anglian Railway Museum
The East Anglian Railway Museum is a must for those with an interest in steam engines. There are plenty of areas to explore on a day out, from hands-on exhibitions at the Heritage Centre, to discovering the behind-the-scenes work that goes on inside the Restoration Shed. The museum is family friendly, with events taking place throughout the year, as well as regular rides on the miniature railway. Adults can also learn to operate a full size steam locomotive by booking a Driver Experience day.
Colchester Zoo
With over 260 species of animals, Colchester Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country. There are a wide range of habitats and zones, including the Orangutan Forest and the Kingdom of the Wild, where you can encounter rhinos, giraffes, ostrich and zebra. The zoo is very interactive, offering you the opportunity to feed the elephants and giraffes, and walk through a glade of exotic butterflies and plants. Colchester Zoo is also home to a number of species rarely seen in the UK, including sun bears and the Colombian black spider monkey.
FSC Flatford Mill
Not far from Colchester, the Field Studies Centre at FSC Flatford Mill provides practical courses in subjects such as Local History, Wildlife, The Arts, Crafts, and Photography. Offering both day courses and residential courses, this is an inspiring place to learn new skills, surrounded by the same picturesque countryside that inspired Constable’s paintings.
When visiting Colchester, you should definitely make a stop at Colchester Castle. The largest Norman keep in Europe, it was built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. The castle offers special guided tours where you can venture down to see the huge vaults and climb to the castle roof and take in the panoramic views. The Castle Museum exhibits some of the best finds in Britain, such as the Roman Colchester Vase, Celtic coin hoards, mosaics and medieval paintings and war armour.
Firstsite
A short walk away from the Castle grounds is Firstsite, a contemporary visual arts organisation. The impressively designed building is home to a varied programme of exhibitions, commissions, residencies and screenings from a range of national and international artists. Firstsite also has a wide range of creative events and activities for the whole family, including art and craft courses, live theatre, opera and ballet and workshops and talks.
Dutch Quarter
The Dutch Quarter can be found just north of Colchester High Street. This area was home to Flemish Protestant refugees in the 16th century, who had escaped persecution after their defeat in the rebellion against Catholic Spain. The Dutch Quarter is a great place to walk around and admire the architecture, as the area is filled with beautiful black and white timber framed houses. You’ll also find the home of Jane and Anne Taylor, who wrote the nursery rhyme Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
Mersea Island
A half hour drive to the southeast of Colchester will take you to Mersea Island. Joined to the mainland by a causeway, the island has long attracted holidaymakers to its sandy shores and colourful beach huts. Mersea Island is well-known for its seafood, which is caught fresh off the coast. The oysters are particularly sought out, and were a staple for the Romans. Watersports such as sailing, kitesurfing and stand up paddling are a popular activity here, as the waters are calm and shallow.
Shopping in Colchester
Colchester is a fantastic place to shop. For big name brands, head to Culver Square and Lion Walk, the town’s two largest indoor shopping centres. For fresh local produce, meats and cheese, fashion, jewellery and lots more, visit Colchester Market, held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. If you prefer something a little different, Colchester is the place to be. Find handmade candles and bath products, unique gifts, retro buys, traditional toys, home decor and antique goods at the many independent shops dotted around the town.
Mersea Island is an idyllic location found nine miles south east of Colchester and covering seven square miles, with a glowing reputation for beautiful scenery and historic charm. The Island’s stunning countryside and Estuary views are a great place to take a walk. The round the island walk is a popular 13 mile challenge which will take around 3 hours for seasoned walkers.
Mersea is a great place to go for a bite to eat or a drink with friends in one of its many pubs and restaurants.
Coast Road is home to some great establishments including the Victory Hotel, The Company Shed, The Oyster Bar restaurant & The Coast Inn, all with great views of the local boating community.
Other eateries on the Island include The Fox Inn, the Mersea Island Fish Bar, The Dog & Pheasant and Mersea Barns.
If you are looking for great lunchtime treats head to The Art Cafe, The Gilt Rooms, Maria’s Vintage Tearoom or Coastal Coffee.
17 recommandé par les habitants
West Mersea
Mersea Island is an idyllic location found nine miles south east of Colchester and covering seven square miles, with a glowing reputation for beautiful scenery and historic charm. The Island’s stunning countryside and Estuary views are a great place to take a walk. The round the island walk is a popular 13 mile challenge which will take around 3 hours for seasoned walkers.
Mersea is a great place to go for a bite to eat or a drink with friends in one of its many pubs and restaurants.
Coast Road is home to some great establishments including the Victory Hotel, The Company Shed, The Oyster Bar restaurant & The Coast Inn, all with great views of the local boating community.
Other eateries on the Island include The Fox Inn, the Mersea Island Fish Bar, The Dog & Pheasant and Mersea Barns.
If you are looking for great lunchtime treats head to The Art Cafe, The Gilt Rooms, Maria’s Vintage Tearoom or Coastal Coffee.
Clacton-on-Sea
Great day trip to the beach.
Short drive from Ardleigh is the picturesque village of Mistley & Manningtree. Lots of cafes and little shops to browse around.
Mistley
Short drive from Ardleigh is the picturesque village of Mistley & Manningtree. Lots of cafes and little shops to browse around.
A little piece of Heaven - on Earth..
Green Island Gardens is 20 acres of private gardens, open for the public to visit in Ardleigh near Colchester, Essex. Professionally designed by its owner Fiona Edmond, the land is laid out as a series of structured gardens displaying a huge range of unusual trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs - 'A Plantsman's Paradise'. Surely one of the best gardens open to visit in Essex. Featured in Country Living February 2019, and recommended in Great British Gardens 2019 and Essex Days Out
Green Island Road
Green Island RoadA little piece of Heaven - on Earth..
Green Island Gardens is 20 acres of private gardens, open for the public to visit in Ardleigh near Colchester, Essex. Professionally designed by its owner Fiona Edmond, the land is laid out as a series of structured gardens displaying a huge range of unusual trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs - 'A Plantsman's Paradise'. Surely one of the best gardens open to visit in Essex. Featured in Country Living February 2019, and recommended in Great British Gardens 2019 and Essex Days Out
Food scene
MILSOMS RESTAURANT AND BAR
The downstairs restaurant (with 1 AA rosette) and bar are bustling and full of atmosphere. They are open all day and there’s no need to book in advance, so please call in whenever you like.
OUTDOOR DINING
Enjoy fabulous al fresco dining at Milsoms any time of the day. The terrace, which is covered by an architectural sail and fully heated, is a fantastic setting for outdoor dining in Essex.
27 recommandé par les habitants
Milsoms
Stratford Road DedhamMILSOMS RESTAURANT AND BAR
The downstairs restaurant (with 1 AA rosette) and bar are bustling and full of atmosphere. They are open all day and there’s no need to book in advance, so please call in whenever you like.
OUTDOOR DINING
Enjoy fabulous al fresco dining at Milsoms any time of the day. The terrace, which is covered by an architectural sail and fully heated, is a fantastic setting for outdoor dining in Essex.
The uniquely named Wooden Fender is located in the village of Ardleigh, Colchester. Located just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Britain's oldest recorded town, The Wooden Fender blends relaxed, contemporary, sensibly priced fresh food pub fine dining with a traditional, welcoming "proper" pub.
Richard, Dan and their team offer a warm welcome, a choice of superbly kept real ales and good old fashioned friendly service in a place full of character. Joint Head Chefs Jacey Eddington & Chris Rout and their team offer both classic and contemporary dishes, using the best of seasonal and where possible, local produce. We also offer a complete gluten free menu. Dine in our traditional bar or our restaurant.
The Wooden Fender station
The uniquely named Wooden Fender is located in the village of Ardleigh, Colchester. Located just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Britain's oldest recorded town, The Wooden Fender blends relaxed, contemporary, sensibly priced fresh food pub fine dining with a traditional, welcoming "proper" pub.
Richard, Dan and their team offer a warm welcome, a choice of superbly kept real ales and good old fashioned friendly service in a place full of character. Joint Head Chefs Jacey Eddington & Chris Rout and their team offer both classic and contemporary dishes, using the best of seasonal and where possible, local produce. We also offer a complete gluten free menu. Dine in our traditional bar or our restaurant.
A modern wooden building serving good food with great service all year round.
Boathire is also available from March to October, a great
22 recommandé par les habitants
The Boathouse
Mill LaneA modern wooden building serving good food with great service all year round.
Boathire is also available from March to October, a great
Lucca Enoteca Manningtree
High StreetGreat place for wonderful Italian food
Bellapais Steak House and Greek Restaurant
Saint John's StreetSun Inn Dedham
High StreetMiddletons Steakhouse & Grill Colchester
"Located in the centre of Colchester, stylish casual, premium steakhouse and grill is perfect for dining or relaxing anytime of the day. The fixed price menu is perfect for a working lunch, a break from shopping or an early dinner, unrivalled at £10.95 for three courses, available Monday – Friday 12 - 6pm and Saturday 12 - 5pm. And why not check out the delicious Sunday Roast too?"
High Street
High StreetMiddletons Steakhouse & Grill Colchester
"Located in the centre of Colchester, stylish casual, premium steakhouse and grill is perfect for dining or relaxing anytime of the day. The fixed price menu is perfect for a working lunch, a break from shopping or an early dinner, unrivalled at £10.95 for three courses, available Monday – Friday 12 - 6pm and Saturday 12 - 5pm. And why not check out the delicious Sunday Roast too?"
Tucked away in the heart of The Hythe, Colchester, Bambu is a family run Vietnamese Restaurant offering an array of fresh tasting culinary from scrumptious small eats and salads, to heart-warming bowls of “Pho”.
6 recommandé par les habitants
Bambu Vietnamese
95 Quayside Dr
Tucked away in the heart of The Hythe, Colchester, Bambu is a family run Vietnamese Restaurant offering an array of fresh tasting culinary from scrumptious small eats and salads, to heart-warming bowls of “Pho”.
A great local favourite, wonderful home cooked food with pleasant outside dinning area. Owned by the same people as The Wooden Fender in Ardleigh.
The Court House
Harwich RoadA great local favourite, wonderful home cooked food with pleasant outside dinning area. Owned by the same people as The Wooden Fender in Ardleigh.