Attractions and Places To See around Uttlesford - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Uttlesford offer a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and charming settlements. This region in Essex features ancient forests, stately homes, and traditional market towns. Visitors can explore well-preserved medieval forests and discover historical architecture. The area provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration, making it a notable destination for places to visit in Essex.
Best attractions and places to see around Uttlesford
- The most popular attractions is Audley End House, a historical site that features a 17th Century mansion. Part of the park is freely accessible from the village, offering views of the impressive house.
- Another must-see spot is Arkesden Village, a settlement known for its thatched roofs and small village green. It offers a peaceful place to stop and experience a quintessential Cambridgeshire village.
- Visitors also love Saffron Walden β Market Town, a historical settlement. This market town, known for its medieval saffron trade, features a selection of cafes and operates market days on Tuesday and Saturday.
- Uttlesford is known for its historical sites, natural areas, and charming settlements. The region offers a variety of family friendly attractions, from ancient forests like Hatfield Forest (a National Trust property) to historical houses and market towns.
- The attractions around Uttlesford are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 110 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Audley End House
Highlight β’ Historical Site
Translated by Google β’
Tip by
Hatfield Forest Lake
Highlight β’ Lake
The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, cafΓ© and river that meanders through.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta)
Highlight β’ Cafe
Tip by
Roos Byway
Highlight (Segment) β’ Cycleway
Tip by
Bridge End Gardens
Highlight (Segment) β’ Viewpoint
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_End_Gardens
Tip by
The Snug at High Easter
Highlight β’ Cafe
Tip by
Icknield Way Singletrack Near Bell Hill
Highlight (Segment) β’ Cycleway
Tip by
St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End
Highlight β’ Religious Site
In 1850βs there was a move by the gentry to construct
Churches to provide a Christian faith for the less
fortunate.
On Friday 5th August 1859 the consecration of this neat
little structure, situated in the ancient forest of Hatfield,
and on what was formerly considered the most wild and
destitute part of the parish.
Two notable men lay at the heart of the Church. These
being:
John Archer Houblon
Rev. Thomas Francis Hall
The early yearsβ¦β¦.
ο§ The church was built in the Gothic style favoured
at that time
ο§ The foundation stone was laid on 8th July 1856
and can be seen on the outside of the south-east
end of the church, it reads:
ο§ βTo the glory of the eternal Trinity. This dedication
stone of the church of St John the Evangelist was
laid July 8 1856 by Sarah daughter of the late
Stanes Chamberlyne Esq. formerly of the Ryes in
this parishβ.
The connection with Hatfield Forest
The names of the Houblon family and the Rev T Hall occur many times in the history of the church.
The Houblon family owned Hallingbury Park that once stood adjacent to the forest. It was used as a hunting forest and they enjoyed country pursuits by the lake. Indeed the famous landscape gardener Capability
Brown redesigned the lake and surrounding parkland.
The stained glass windows of the apse of St Peter was presented by Georgina Anne Archer Houblon in 1857.
The centre window is that of the patronal dedication - St John the Evangelist. This was given in memory of Robert Impey first born child of Thomas Hall MA Vicar of the parish and Mary Phillippa his wife. The right hand window was presented by Joseph Clarke Esq. the
Diocesan architect in 1844.
There are also two in Hatfield Heath church in memory of Mr Hallβs infant daughter Mary jane who died from scarlet fever in 1844. Mr Hall himself died in 1858 one
year before the consecration of the two churches that
he brought into being. Indeed it was said that he died
in consequence from anxiety, of frequent disappointment and of over exertion in his endeavors
to get the churches built!
Mr Houblon indeed was to say at the consecration ββ¦.had he lived to see these churches consecrated he
was sure it would have been one of the happiest days of his life.β
The Parish of Bush Endβ¦.
The power of faithβ¦.
ο§ In 1864 Bush End became a separate parish but was resided by the vicar of Hatfield Broad oak as was Hatfield Heath. In 1929 the living became vacant and since that date has been linked with that of Broad Oak. Indeed the name Broad Oak is linked to that of the famous Doodle Oak tree that stood in the Hatfield Forest parkland.
ο§ The church has an early english inscription of the ten commandments written in red and black. It is worthy of record that whereas the neighbourhood used formerly to be the most notorious for thieves, poachers and deer stealers, not one of the reverendβs gentlemenβs flock has been before the magistrate since the vicar was resident within them!
Dedication of organ as a war memorial at Bush Endβ¦..
Within the church there once was a church organ donated by the Rev. F W Galpin as a memorial to those who fell in the great war 1914-1919 within the parish.
The only evidence today is the brass plaque that would have been located on the organ.
Itβs cost was Β£200 but sadly this memorial was either sold or donated to another church.
Tip by
Arkesden Village
Highlight β’ Settlement
Tip by
Saffron Walden β Market Town
Highlight β’ Settlement
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Uttlesford.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Uttlesford
Saffron Trail β Countryside to coast through rural Essex
Hiking the Greater Ridgeway β Following Roman roads across England
Cycle the Greater Ridgeway Trail β English Channel to North Sea
Icknield Way Trail β Ancient bridleways of Central England
Forest hopping in Essex β Three Forests Way
Adventures from the capital β northern & easterly road rides
Road Cycling Routes around Uttlesford
MTB Trails around Uttlesford
Hiking around Uttlesford
Cycling around Uttlesford
Other adventures around Uttlesford
Tips from the Community
Such a pretty village in the Spring sunshine and the Axe and Compass pub looks like a good spot for refreshment, although I didn't have time to stop in.
0
0
Brilliant cafe in High Easter - great place for a cafe stop on a ride through Essex. Well worth checking out
0
0
great place to grab a drink and something to eat βΊοΈ
0
0
This is actually a section of the Icknield Way but I agree, it is a fun downhill section.
0
0
26 Aug 24. Still ok to ride. Some parts at West end bit overgrown but stinging nettles but not to bad. Track is well drained, no pot holes or ruts so good gravel track. Its a bit loose in places with some small stoney lumps on surface bit ok if you keep your attention on track. Ford is dry.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly attractions in Uttlesford?
Uttlesford offers several family-friendly attractions. You can visit Audley End House, which has extensive grounds and gardens. Hatfield Forest Lake is another excellent choice, providing ancient woodlands and open spaces for exploration. The market town of Saffron Walden also has family appeal with its market days and historical charm.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife in Uttlesford?
For nature and wildlife, Hatfield Forest Lake is a prime location. It's an ancient royal hunting forest, home to deer, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects, and diverse birdlife. The forest offers a beautiful lake and a meandering river, perfect for spotting local flora and fauna.
What historical sites can I visit in Uttlesford?
Uttlesford is rich in history. Audley End House is a prominent 17th-century mansion with historical significance. The market town of Saffron Walden itself is a historical settlement known for its medieval saffron trade. Additionally, Bridge End Gardens offers historical garden designs, and St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, is another notable historical religious building.
Are there good places for walking or hiking in Uttlesford?
Yes, there are several excellent spots for walking. Hatfield Forest provides extensive paths through ancient woodlands. The area around Saffron Walden also offers pleasant walks, including circular routes that explore the town's surroundings and rolling hills. For more structured routes, you can explore the Cycling around Uttlesford guide, which often includes paths suitable for walking.
What cycling opportunities are available around Uttlesford?
Uttlesford is popular with cyclists. You can find various routes for different cycling styles, including gravel biking, road cycling, and general touring. Explore guides like Gravel biking around Uttlesford, Cycling around Uttlesford, and Road Cycling Routes around Uttlesford for detailed route information.
Where can I find cafes or places to eat near attractions?
The market town of Saffron Walden has a fantastic selection of cafes and pubs. You can also visit Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta), a popular cafe that also serves as a bike shop. Another option is The Snug at High Easter, offering a cozy spot for refreshments.
Are there any wheelchair accessible trails or attractions in Uttlesford?
While specific wheelchair accessible trails are not detailed for all areas, parts of the park at Audley End House are freely accessible from the village, offering views of the impressive house. It is advisable to check directly with specific venues for their most up-to-date accessibility information.
What do visitors enjoy most about Uttlesford?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and charming settlements. The well-preserved medieval forests, stately homes like Audley End House, and traditional market towns such as Saffron Walden are highly rated. The peaceful atmosphere of villages like Arkesden Village, with its thatched roofs, is also a highlight.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known places to discover?
Beyond the main attractions, exploring the quaint villages like Arkesden Village, known for its quintessential Cambridgeshire charm and peaceful setting, can be a delightful discovery. The lesser-known byways, such as Roos Byway, offer unique experiences for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, particularly for gravel biking.
What is the best time to visit Uttlesford?
Uttlesford can be enjoyed year-round, but the spring and summer months (April to September) are ideal for outdoor activities, exploring gardens like Bridge End Gardens, and enjoying the full beauty of natural areas like Hatfield Forest. The market days in Saffron Walden on Tuesdays and Saturdays are also popular during warmer months.
Are there specific routes for gravel biking in Uttlesford?
Yes, Uttlesford offers several routes specifically for gravel biking. You can find detailed tours and guides, such as the Gravel biking around Uttlesford guide, which includes routes like the 'Sweeping Country Lane β Saffron Walden loop' and the 'Roos Byway β Saffron Walden loop'.
Most popular routes around Uttlesford
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didnβt find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight youβre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
