Eastlife January 2019

and make the most of this splendid location.
Essex
Must do: The Sun Inn is an original medieval coaching
inn dating back to the 15th century which is now a
stylish restaurant with seven 5-star individual rooms to
stay each with en-suite facilities. The restaurant serves
modern European food as well as popular Sunday roast
or why not try an early spring afternoon tea? It also has
a ‘Sunday Sleepover’ offer which includes Sunday lunch,
dinner, accommodation and complimentary breakfast
at £200, conditions apply. Visit suninndedham.com for
menu and details.
6. Stansted Mountfitchet – the castle on the hill
Dating back to Saxon times with a good amount of
16th and 17th century history attached to it too, visiting
this impressive village is like stepping back in time. The
windmill built in 1787 dominates the skyline and there’s
a wide range of wonderful pubs and restaurants to
choose from once you’ve strolled the winding streets to
Mountfitchet Castle.
Must try: The House On the Hill Toy Museum situated
next to the castle is reportedly the largest toy museum in
the world with over 80,000 exhibits dating back. Find out
more by visiting stanstedtoymuseum.com for details.
7. Wivenhoe – a seaside treat
Steeped in maritime history, this bustling town has long
been a hub for the artistic community in Essex as well
as being the home of the award-winning University of
Essex and its students. Visit the quay and take a trip on
the ferry along the river to view the wildlife then stop for
lunch in one of the many pubs and restaurant, including
the Tudor Tea Rooms and the Black Buoy that serves a
variety of real ales.
Must try: The Nottage Maritime Institute is a registered
charity dating back to 1896 that not only provides RYA
shore-based courses but can also teach you how to
build a boat! With a great collection of photographs
Thaxted
Dedham
and pictures, it makes a great morning or afternoon visit.
Open seasonally. Visit nottage.org.uk for details.
8. Writtle – the village on the green
This gem of a village located just a mile from Chelmsford
was once described as the loveliest in England most
likely due to its traditional green, duck pond, the ancient
church and cottages. It’s also home to Hylands House &
Park, a grade II, Neo-classical villa that is well known for
hosting V Festival, now Rize music festival each summer.
Must try: The Bridge Street Lounge & Grill is a family
restaurant that serves a fantastic a la carte menu and has
a smart outside eating area for warmer days – and nights.
Visit bridgestreetlounge-grill.com for details.
9. Frinton-on-Sea – an elegant beach resort
This seasonal town in Essex’s Tendring District has been
visited by many notable people including the current
Prince of Wales and Winston Churchill, who even rented a
house there one summer. As well as the many boutiques,
shops and bars along the smart seafront there is the
Frinton Golf Club where you can enjoy a coffee as a nonresident
too.
Must try: There’s nothing better than Frinton beach
– even on a winter’s day. Totally unspoilt but safe for
paddling and swimming, pack a picnic and breathe in the
fresh air!
10. Ashdon – nestling on the river
Sitting just on the border of Essex and Cambridgeshire
along the River Bourn, Ashdon has one of the few
remaining post mills in Essex, Bragg’s Mill, which was
fully restored and reopened in 2006. It is a grade II listed
building and makes for some great pictures on a sunny
day. Take a stroll along to the 13th century All Saints
Church before stopping for a coffee or drink in one of the
pretty pubs.
Must try: The Rose & Crown pub is a popular eatery
serving home-cooked food including the now-famous
sticky toffee pudding dessert and some great ales. Call
01799 584337 for details and opening times.
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