Eastlife Spring 2021

Essex
Exploring Uttlesford;
a Rural Road Trip
Historic market towns and over 100 villages and hamlets make
up this area of North Essex. The bustling small towns are full
of independent business and are surrounded by miles of
country walks. It’s no wonder the district regularly lands in the
top five as one of the best places to live in the UK – it’s rural
living at its finest.
You could easily visit most of the towns and slightly larger
villages within one day. A rural road trip could be just the
socially distanced spring activity you need. On your travels
you’ll discover over 3,500 historic listed buildings, conservation
areas, stunning churches, thatched cottages, tearooms and
cosy country pubs.
Start your journey in Saffron Walden. Combining the best of
both worlds, it’s where old meets new. You can often feel as
though you’ve been transported to a time gone by while doing
your grocery shopping. A wander around the cobbled streets,
while popping into independent boutiques and admiring the
historic architecture is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Market day takes place every Tuesday and Saturday, but on
quieter days take advantage of a stroll around the manicured
lawns of The Common, which features a playground and turf
maze. Seek out Bridge End Garden hidden in the back streets of
the town. The grade II listed space consists of seven interlinked
gardens and a popular hedge maze. Saffron Walden is also
home to English Heritage’s Audley End House and Gardens
which features immaculate landscaped gardens, a Victorian
country house, service wing, stable yard and café.
From here, hop in the car and travel via the villages of Newport
and Quendon. It’s worth finding a spot to park. Both have a
number of country walks and a stunning church. Carry on
towards Stansted Mountfitchet. A small town with a number
of eateries. The Cork House on the corner is a stylish pub with
outdoor seating and a tapas menu.
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