Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chelmsford, England, to Brentwood, England

If you are searching for a quick day trip from Chelmsford, look no further! The drive to Brentwood is only about a half-hour long, but there are plenty of unexpected destinations to explore on the way. From historic houses to idyllic nature reserves, here are five of the most interesting places to stop along the route.

Chelmsford, ESS: The Halfway Point

Before getting into the main stops along the route, it's well worth mentioning Chelmsford itself. As the county town of Essex, this vibrant city has plenty of attractions of its own. Take a stroll through the Hylands Estate, a former 18th-century manor house with 574 acres of pristine parkland. Alternatively, explore the Museum of Power, home to a range of steam engines that once powered the world. No visit to Chelmsford is complete, however, without a stop at the Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre, a modern sports facility that's ideal for burning off some energy.

1. Hatfield Forest

Only a few miles outside Chelmsford, Hatfield Forest is an ancient wooded landscape that has remained largely untouched for centuries. Visitors can walk through the woods along well-maintained trails, bring a picnic to enjoy by the tranquil lake, or spot some of the wildlife that lives in the forest. With over 1,000 acres to explore, there's plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy the fresh air.

Food: When visiting Hatfield Forest, be sure to grab a cream tea from the on-site restaurant, The Forest Cafe.

2. Cressing Temple Barns

Cressing Temple Barns is a fascinating historical site that dates back to the 13th century. A former Knights Templar property, the barns were used for the storage of grain and other produce. Today, visitors can explore the two magnificent timber-framed barns and learn about how life was lived on the estate hundreds of years ago. Exhibitions, events, and workshops are held throughout the year, so check the website before your visit.

Food: On-site, there's a small cafe selling a range of tasty snacks and hot drinks, perfect for refueling after a day spent exploring the barns.

3. Greensted Church

Greensted Church is a truly unique destination. It's the oldest wooden church in Europe and dates back to around 1060 AD. The church is made entirely of wood and is a remarkable feat of engineering that has stood the test of time. Visitors can see the original wooden walls and feel the history all around them. The churchyard is also home to some ancient yew trees, some of which are believed to be over 800 years old.

Food: Bring a picnic and enjoy it in the churchyard, or head to the nearby King William IV pub for a traditional British meal.

4. Ingatestone Hall

Ingatestone Hall is an impressive Tudor manor house that was built in the 16th century. Visitors can take a tour of the house to learn about its fascinating past, including the fact that it hosted some notable historical figures over the years, including Queen Elizabeth I. Stroll through the beautiful gardens or relax in the tea room with a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

Food: The tea room at Ingatestone Hall is famous for its homemade scones, so be sure to try them while you're there.

5. Thorndon Country Park

The final stop on this road trip is Thorndon Country Park, located just outside Brentwood. This beautiful park covers 500 acres of land, including grasslands, woods, and ponds. There are plenty of walking trails to explore, including a wheelchair-accessible route, as well as a children's adventure playground. It's the perfect destination for a family day out.

Food: Grab some hot food from the on-site cafe, or bring a picnic to enjoy in one of Thorndon's many scenic spots.

Conclusion

Driving from Chelmsford to Brentwood might not seem like the most exciting of journeys, but with these five unexpected and fascinating stops along the way, it's well worth embarking on. From historic houses to untouched forest landscapes, there's something for everyone on this route. Don't forget to indulge in some of the delicious food and drink along the way, too! Overall, this road trip is an excellent reminder that sometimes the journey really is as rewarding as the destination.