Braintree (Essex) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations in Braintree (Essex).


Introduction to Braintree (Essex)

Welcome to Braintree, a charming market town located in Essex, England. Braintree boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman times and features a bustling town center, beautiful scenery, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, Braintree has something to offer. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations in Braintree.

List of Places to Visit in Braintree (Essex)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Braintree District Museum : Experience Braintree’s rich history in the interactive and engaging Braintree District Museum. The museum houses a range of exhibits, including local crafts, Roman artifacts, and World War II memorabilia.

  • Coggeshall Grange Barn : Located just a short drive from Braintree, Coggeshall Grange Barn is a historical 13th-century barn that boasts stunning timberwork and beautiful surroundings.

  • St. Michael’s Church, Coggeshall : Dating back to the 12th century, St. Michael’s Church is a beautiful and impressive structure and one of the most notable landmarks in Coggeshall.

Natural Attractions of Braintree (Essex): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Great Notley Country Park : With its vast green open spaces, playing areas, wildlife zones, and lakes, Great Notley Country Park is a popular destination for families and nature lovers alike.

  • Bocking Blackwater Riverwalk : The Bocking Blackwater Riverwalk offers picturesque views of the Blackwater River. The trail takes you through scenic countryside and wildlife habitats, and leads to the Cressing Temple Barns.

  • Blake House Craft Centre and Cafe : Located just outside of Braintree, the Blake House Craft Centre and Cafe is set amidst tranquil surroundings and offers an array of outdoor activities such as visits to the farmyard animals, fishing, and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Braintree (Essex)

  • Flitch Way : A former railway track now converted into a pathway, Flitch Way offers a serene 15-mile bike ride through picturesque agricultural landscapes, nature reserves, and wildlife habitats.

  • Blackwater Rail Trail : This trail offers an excellent cycling adventure that stretches over 7 miles of scenic countryside, and it’s suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.

  • Stour Valley Path : For avid hikers and nature enthusiasts, the Stour Valley Path is a 60-mile trail that winds through some of the most idyllic countryside in Suffolk and Essex.

Best Things to Do in Braintree (Essex): Activities and Tours

  • Touring Braintree on a Brompton Bike : Rent a Brompton bike at Braintree’s railway station and embark on a self-guided cycling tour of the town. The bikes are designed with on-road and off-road riding in mind, so you can easily explore all the best sights in town.

  • Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens : Take a peaceful stroll through Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens and experience the natural beauty of the area. The gardens feature a range of flora, including the historic Braintree Bury, a majestic yew tree with a girth of 33 feet.

  • Colne Valley Railway : A must-visit destination for train enthusiasts, Colne Valley Railway offers a nostalgic journey through time on a vintage steam train.

Week-Long Itinerary for Braintree (Essex)

Day Plan
Day 1 Explore Braintree District Museum and Braintree Town Hall
Day 2 Hike around Great Notley Country Park and make a stop at Blake House Craft Centre and Cafe
Day 3 Visit Bocking Blackwater Riverwalk and Cressing Temple Barns
Day 4 Rent a Brompton bike and explore the town – stopping at Witham’s Ironworks Gym, Charles and Ray Eames’ House, and Braintree Arts Theatre
Day 5 Take a picnic lunch to St. Michael’s Church in Coggeshall
Day 6 Embark on a Colne Valley Railway ride
Day 7 Take a day trip to Saffron Walden, an idyllic nearby town with historic architecture, heritage sites, and scenic countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Braintree (Essex)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Essex Pudding : Similar to a traditional apple pie, the Essex Pudding is made with bread, sugar, milk, butter, and citrus zest.

  • Kippers : A type of smoked fish, Kippers are a popular breakfast option served with bread or as part of a full English breakfast.

  • Essex Pork Pie : A savory pastry dish made with pork, onions, and sage, Essex Pork Pie is a local favorite, particularly during the holiday season.

Local Beverages

  • Mersea Island Vineyard : With roots dating back to the 1950s, Mersea Island Vineyard is one of the oldest vineyards in the UK. They produce a variety of white, red, and rose wines.

  • Adnams Brewery & Distillery : A popular local brewer, Adnams Brewery & Distillery produces a range of beers, spirits, and wines.

Where to Stay in Braintree (Essex): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The White Hart : A premium boutique hotel located in the heart of Braintree, The White Hart boasts stylish rooms with modern amenities and a chic bar and restaurant.

  • Premier Inn Braintree : A well-known budget hotel chain, Premier Inn Braintree offers comfortable and spacious rooms, excellent service, and a central location.

  • Red Lion : This charming 15th-century inn features cozy rooms with traditional decor, a pub, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce.

What to Buy in Braintree (Essex): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Honey and Honey Products : Braintree is known for its locally produced honey, which can be found in shops and farmers’ markets around town.

  • Handmade Crafts : From pottery to textiles, Braintree is home to many local artisans that create unique, handmade crafts that make for excellent gifts and souvenirs.

  • Essex Jams and Preserves : Made with locally sourced ingredients, Essex jams and preserves are a delicious taste of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Braintree (Essex)

  • Bocking Arts Theatre : Braintree has a vibrant arts scene, and the Bocking Arts Theatre is a great place to take in a show, concert, or play.

  • Braintree District Council : A local government body, the Braintree District Council is responsible for public services and amenities in and around Braintree.

Best Time to Visit Braintree (Essex)

The best time to visit Braintree is between April and September when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The summer months are particularly popular due to the range of festivals, fairs, and events that take place throughout the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Braintree (Essex)

Do:

  • Do take in the charming architecture and historic landmarks in Braintree.

  • Do try the locally produced honey and jams.

  • Do take advantage of the outdoor activities and scenic countryside.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the beauty and charm of Braintree’s surrounding countryside.

  • Don’t forget to visit the Bocking Arts Theatre for a show or concert.

  • Don’t forget to pack for all types of weather, as the weather can be unpredictable in the UK.

Safety and Health

Safety in Braintree (Essex)

Braintree is a safe town, but it’s always important to take standard safety precautions such as locking doors and windows, being aware of your surroundings, and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Braintree (Essex)

Braintree is serviced by the National Health Service (NHS), which provides both emergency and non-emergency medical care to residents and visitors.

Getting to Braintree (Essex): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Braintree (Essex)

  • London Stansted Airport : Located just 13 miles from Braintree, London Stansted Airport offers flights to destinations worldwide.

Bus Stations Near Braintree (Essex)

  • Braintree Bus Park : Braintree Bus Park is the town’s main bus station, serving most routes in and around the area.

Other Options

  • Braintree Railway Station : Braintree Railway Station is located in the town center and offers regular services to and from London Liverpool Street Station and other destinations in the UK.

How to Get Around in Braintree (Essex)

Many of Braintree’s top attractions are within walking or cycling distance of each other, and the town’s central location makes it a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations. Taxis and buses are readily available, and rental cars and bikes are also options for those who prefer more flexibility and independence.

Where to Go Next from Braintree (Essex): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Chelmsford : Just a short drive from Braintree, Chelmsford is a bustling city known for its shopping, museums, and art galleries.

  • Saffron Walden : Another charming town nearby, Saffron Walden features historic architecture, heritage sites, and scenic countryside.

  • Colchester : One of England’s oldest towns with a rich history dating back to Roman times, Colchester features a range of attractions, including museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Braintree is a hidden gem in the East of England, offering a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure that’s sure to please both locals and travelers. Whether you’re strolling through the town’s historic landmarks or exploring the scenic countryside, Braintree has something to offer everyone. With this travel guide, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip to this charming town.

Blackwater at Bocking Blackwater at Bocking St Michael's Church St Michael's Church Bocking Mill Bocking Mill