Attractions and Places To See around Great Dunmow - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Great Dunmow include a mix of historic sites, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes. This historic market town in Essex features medieval architecture and offers access to scenic walking and cycling routes. The area is characterized by its rural setting, with rivers, forests, and charming villages providing diverse exploration opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Great Dunmow
- The most popular attractions is Finchingfield Village Green, a settlement that is a beautiful little village with cafes and pubs. It is known for its picturesque setting and is a popular stop for cyclists and visitors.
- Another must-see spot is Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre, a cycle way with facilities and a historical site. Visitors can enjoy a cafe, a railway carriage museum, and access to the Flitch Way for walking and cycling.
- Visitors also love Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake within an ancient royal hunting forest. It is considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally, featuring ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a tranquil lake.
- Great Dunmow is known for its historic sites, natural features, and charming villages. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches and market towns to extensive forests and scenic trails.
- The attractions around Great Dunmow are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 220 upvotes and 45 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Finchingfield Village Green
Highlight • Settlement
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Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre
Highlight • Cycleway
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Hatfield Forest Lake
Highlight • 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, café and river that meanders through.
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The Snug at High Easter
Highlight • Cafe
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St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End
Highlight • Religious Site
In 1850’s 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 years…….
The church was built in the Gothic style favoured
at that time
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:
“To 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 parish”.
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 Hall’s 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 “….had he lived to see these churches consecrated he
was sure it would have been one of the happiest days of his life.”
The Parish of Bush End….
The power of faith….
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.
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 reverend’s gentlemen’s flock has been before the magistrate since the vicar was resident within them!
Dedication of organ as a war memorial at Bush End…..
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.
It’s cost was £200 but sadly this memorial was either sold or donated to another church.
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Tips from the Community
Watch out for pedestrians and dogs, great place to stop to refuel.
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Brilliant cafe in High Easter - great place for a cafe stop on a ride through Essex. Well worth checking out
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Great place for a break! Able to order outside (if the weather is nice) so don't need to worry about securing bike if a solo biker!
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Joined the Flitch way here - an excellent off road trail all the way to Bishop's Stortford - as an old railway - fairly flat with gentle gradients - highly recommended.
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picturesque village with an idyllic pub location!
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Good coffee and cakes served here
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to experience nature and outdoor activities around Great Dunmow?
For nature lovers, Hatfield Forest Lake is a must-visit, located within one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally. You can also explore the scenic Flitch Way, a converted railway line perfect for walking and cycling, or enjoy tranquil riverside walks along the River Chelmer. Nearby, the Gardens of Easton Lodge offer beautiful historic landscapes, and Hatfield Forest provides 1,000 acres of ancient woodland.
Where can I find historical sites and cultural experiences in Great Dunmow?
Great Dunmow is rich in history. You can visit the 13th-century St Mary's Church with its striking architecture, stroll along the historic High Street with its medieval buildings, or see The Old Town Hall and The Plume of Feathers, both dating back to the 16th century. The Great Dunmow Museum, housed within the 16th-century Great Dunmow Maltings, offers insights into local history, including the famous Dunmow Flitch Trials. Don't miss St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, a historical religious building.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Great Dunmow?
Yes, several attractions are great for families. Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre offers a cafe, a railway carriage museum, and access to the Flitch Way for cycling and walking. Hatfield Forest Lake is within a forest that's home to diverse wildlife and offers plenty of space for exploration. For a unique experience, Talliston House & Gardens, dubbed 'Britain's Most Extraordinary Home,' features 13 themed rooms and gardens (pre-booking essential).
What are some popular walking and cycling routes near Great Dunmow?
The Flitch Way is a highly recommended route for both walking and cycling, offering miles of scenic paths through the countryside. For more specific routes, you can find various options like the 'Dunnow Cutting Forest Trail' or 'Flitch Way Country Park loop' for running, and 'Flitch Way road crossing' or 'Bannister Green Halt' for gravel biking. Explore more routes on the Easy hikes around Great Dunmow, Running Trails around Great Dunmow, and Gravel biking around Great Dunmow guide pages.
Where can I find charming villages or viewpoints near Great Dunmow?
The most popular settlement is Finchingfield Village Green, known for its picturesque setting with cafes and pubs, making it a popular stop for cyclists and visitors. The historic Great Dunmow High Street also offers a charming atmosphere with its medieval timber-framed buildings.
Are there any unique cultural traditions in Great Dunmow?
Great Dunmow is famous for the quirky, centuries-old Dunmow Flitch Trials, held every four years (next in 2025). Married couples who can prove their devotion are awarded a 'flitch' (side) of bacon in humorous court-like proceedings. You can learn more about this tradition at the Great Dunmow Museum.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gems' to discover?
While not entirely hidden, Talliston House & Gardens offers a truly unique and extraordinary experience, transforming a former council house into a labyrinth of themed rooms and gardens. Doctor's Pond, a tranquil spot surrounded by greenery, is also steeped in local folklore and offers a peaceful escape.
What are some nearby attractions worth visiting outside of Great Dunmow itself?
A short drive away, you can visit Audley End House and Gardens, a magnificent English Heritage property with extensive gardens. Mountfitchet Castle offers a unique historical experience with its Norman Village. The Saffron Walden Museum, located in the picturesque market town of Saffron Walden, is one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the UK.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or a meal while exploring?
Yes, you'll find several options. Finchingfield Village Green has cafes and pubs. Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre features a cafe. For a dedicated cafe experience, The Snug at High Easter is a friendly spot popular with cyclists, offering a good selection of food and drinks.
What kind of historical architecture can I see in the area?
Great Dunmow boasts a rich architectural heritage. You can admire the 13th-century St Mary's Church, a Grade I listed building with intricate stonework and stained-glass windows. The High Street features charming medieval timber-framed buildings. The Old Town Hall and The Plume of Feathers date back to the 16th century, as does the well-preserved Great Dunmow Maltings, showcasing Essex's brewing history.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the natural areas?
In areas like Hatfield Forest, you can expect to see deer, which were historically kept for hunting. The forest is also home to over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects, and a diverse array of birdlife, making it a fantastic spot for nature observation.
Most popular routes around Great Dunmow
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