About

Dedham is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, located in the North of the county, straddling the River Stour into Suffolk.

It's quaint High Street has an abundance of independent shops, cosy pubs and quintessential tearooms, including the famous Wilkin and Sons tearoom, the Essex Rose, perfect for some light refreshments or a delicious cream tea. Admire the Georgian architecture and timber framed buildings as you wander down the High Street. At the end you will find the Dedham Arts and Crafts Centre, in an historic converted church. The Centre houses many art treasures all carefully crafted by local artisans.

St Mary's Church stands at the heart of the village and is an important landmark for both residents and visitors. The church was dedicated to St Mary the Virgin in 1492 when the present church was built. However, there has been a church on this site since 1322.

St Mary's Church has been the back drop for many of the works by the great English landscape artist John Constable. The surrounding beautiful countyside, affectionately named Constable Country after John Constable has inspired many other artisits over the years including Sir Alfred Munnings and Thomas Gainsborough.

The Sir Alfred Munnings Museum holds the largest collection of his work in the world.

A short walk from the heart of the village you'll find the riverbanks of the River Stour, perfect for a stroll to admire the landscapes which inspired John Constable and his famous Haywain and Boatbuilding paintings or hire a rowing boat for a paddle down river to Flatford, where you will find Flatford Mill.

For more information on Dedham visit www.visitcolchester.com