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Discover Great Chesterford – A Historic Riverside Village

Set on the banks of the River Cam at the northern tip of Essex, Great Chesterford is a charming village steeped in history and surrounded by idyllic countryside. Just 10 miles south of Cambridge and 4 miles from Saffron Walden, it’s the perfect base for exploring both rural Essex and the academic city of Cambridge.

This ancient settlement boasts a fascinating past, with archaeological finds dating back to the Bronze Age and Roman times. In fact, Great Chesterford was once a thriving Roman town, complete with a temple and defensive walls - remnants of which lie beneath the village today. The medieval period saw the village flourish as a market town, and its heritage lives on in the beautiful All Saints Church, a striking landmark with roots in the 13th century.

Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the Icknield Way, one of Britain’s oldest routes, or explore the surrounding countryside dotted with nature reserves and picturesque hamlets. For a taste of local hospitality, stop by one of the village’s welcoming pubs, such as The Plough or The Crown and Thistle, or indulge in a stay at the historic Crown House Hotel, a Tudor gem with a Georgian façade. For visitors that want to keep moving the village also has a lovely shop where you can enjoy a take away sausage roll and a cup of coffee.

With easy rail links to London and Cambridge, Great Chesterford offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility and cultural discovery. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this riverside village promises a memorable visit.