Essex is a county that is abundant in beautiful countryside, perfect for a peaceful weekend away in the UK for walking enthusiasts, and Uttlesford is an idyllic location for this.

Where to Stay in Uttlesford

If you’re looking for a full weekend away to escape the hustle and bustle of your every day life, then we recommend staying at the Cross Keys Hotel in the heart of Saffron Walden. Dripping with Elizabethan charm and elegance, there are ten bedrooms available to book, all decorated individually to add unique character for every stay. The Cross Keys Hotel also serve delicious fresh food, all of which is prepared and cooked on the premises. The Red Cow is another wonderful option for accommodation in Uttlesford, found in the village of Chrishall to the west of Saffron Walden. Here, you can wake up to a delicious cooked breakfast in the warming comfort of the B&B that has been modelled from the family’s thatched and beamed barn.

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Walking in Uttlesford

The English Heritage and Historic Essex trail will take you through the beautiful town of Saffron Walden – walk or cycle the gently rolling Essex landscape, take in the unique sights of 15^th century timbered housing along Castle Street, as well as some fantastic hidden gems such as the Market Place, held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, or stop by Bridge End Garden with designs typical of the Victorian era and free of charge every day for the public to enjoy.

Alternatively, take on the first three stages of the Saffron Trail. Stage one is an easy 10-mile walk starting at Saffron Walden from St Mary’s Church, taking you through a scenic stroll of woodlands, open farmland, along Cam riverbank, before finishing at Henham Church. The second stage of the walk is 9-miles long from Henmow to Great Dunmow, and much hillier than the first stage of this trail – we recommend going in the Spring or Summer for the beautiful wild flowers. The third stage of the Saffron Trail will take you from Great Dunmow to Great Waltham for 10-miles of walking, with views of fishponds and water channels around Leez Priory and the opportunity to spot some wonderful wildlife.

You can choose to do any stage of the Saffron Trail in any order, but each section of this trail is a beautiful walking experience, and highlights the beauty of the Essex countryside and wildlife.

If you’re looking for a shorter walking trail in Uttlesford, then the Thaxted Wildlife Trail is perfect for a relaxing stroll. This 1 mile circular walk takes you across the River Chelmer, up to The Windmill, and to Thaxted Guildhall, both of which are open on Sundays and Bank Holidays during the summer months.

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Must-See Attractions in Uttlesford

Other amazing attractions in Uttlesford include the Saffron Walden Museum, where you will find outstanding exhibits displaying mummy cases, woolly mammoths, and moccasins. For some family-friendly fun, visit Audley End Miniature Railway, where you can enjoy a magical ride through enchanting woods and an adventure play area. If you’re a lover of wine, take a tour at Saffron Grange Vineyard, one of Essex’s best kept secrets, and treat yourself to some award winning English wine. For history fanatics, the Mountfitchet Castle experience is one to add to the list, including attractions such as Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village of 1066, House on the Hill Toy Museum and Dinosaur Encounters.

Discover everything else that the Uttlesford District has to offer, from great restaurants to exciting events, here.