Attractions and Places To See around Great Easton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Great Easton, Essex, include historic villages, ancient forests, and natural landscapes. This region offers a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover a variety of sites, from well-preserved medieval forests to picturesque village greens. Great Easton provides numerous places to explore for those interested in history, nature, and local charm.
Best attractions and places to see around Great Easton
- The most popular attractions is Finchingfield Village Green, a settlement that is a busy hub for cyclists and classic car enthusiasts. This beautiful village features pubs and tea shops.
- Another must-see spot is Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake located within an ancient royal hunting forest. This forest is considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally, featuring ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a river.
- Visitors also love Roos Byway, a cycle way offering a mix of gravel and dirt track. This route provides opportunities for fast riding through forested areas.
- Great Easton is known for its historic villages, ancient forests, and scenic cycle ways. The area offers a variety of attractions, including natural monuments and historical sites, for exploration.
- The attractions around Great Easton are appreciated by the komoot community, with highlights receiving more than 220 upvotes and featuring 46 photos.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Finchingfield Village Green
Highlight • Settlement
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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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Roos Byway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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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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Scenic Country Lane
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
26 Aug 24. Still ok to ride. Some parts at West end bit overgrown but stinging nettles but not to bad. Track is well drained, no pot holes or ruts so good gravel track. Its a bit loose in places with some small stoney lumps on surface bit ok if you keep your attention on track. Ford is dry.
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picturesque village with an idyllic pub location!
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it's a great ride mostly hard packed cinder with some soft spots to catch you out. All a gentle up grade Wesr to East but a great wiz down from East to West. Just don't let the speed get out of hand and watch for loose soft sections.
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Scenic route but narrow with frequent piles of loose stones in the middle of the road so watch your line especially in the corners.
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Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. 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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Best ridden in spring and early summer or after autumn as it gets very over grown but well worth the effort. Essentially all uphill West to East so be careful E to W as you can get quite fast and there are a few tricky narrow parts by the edge of the Fulfen Slade stream bed. At the western end you need to cross the dry stream bed which is a bit muddy and steep slope in and out but very ridable and enjoyable. Walk it if it looks too much don't risk it. Rode on 14th Oct 23 getting very narrow at the Western end for bikes in what is a long wheel rut best walked if you are not strong steering and balanced - but not long section. Tricky ride now until spring. Roos Lane entrance from Debden Road used by the farm is very muddy, slippery and pot holed so be careful. May 24 After 3 days of rain some standing water and slippery muddy sections ok if you are careful. Fulfen Slade stream bed is running quite deep. However passable today. There are stepping stones if you want to dismount and push
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Frequently Asked Questions
What family-friendly attractions are available around Great Easton?
For families, Finchingfield Village Green offers a pleasant setting with tea shops. Hatfield Forest Lake, located within the ancient Hatfield Forest, is also family-friendly with opportunities to see wildlife. Beyond these, you can find attractions like the Audley End Enchanted Railway, Little Monsters House of Fun, and seasonal options such as Hatters Farm Pumpkin Patch and Boydells Dairy Farm in the wider area.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife near Great Easton?
The primary natural attraction is Hatfield Forest Lake, part of Hatfield Forest, which is recognized as one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally. It's home to ancient trees, diverse wildlife including deer, and a wide array of fungi and birdlife. The forest also features a meandering river.
Are there historical sites to visit around Great Easton?
Yes, the area boasts several historical sites. St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, is a notable historical religious building dating back to the 1850s. Further afield, you can explore the historic Gardens of Easton Lodge, the Norman Mountfitchet Castle, and the ancient St Mary's Church at Little Easton, which features Roman bricks and 13th-century wall paintings.
What kind of cycling routes are available near Great Easton?
Great Easton offers a variety of cycling options. You can find routes for touring bicycles and gravel biking. For example, the Roos Byway provides a mix of gravel and dirt track for fast riding through forested areas. Other routes include the 'Singletrack to Lindsell – Stebbing Village loop' for an easy ride. For more options, explore the dedicated guide for Cycling around Great Easton or Gravel biking around Great Easton.
Are there easy hiking trails around Great Easton?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails suitable for a relaxed walk. Examples include the 'Little Easton Gravel Cut – Rough Farm Track loop' and the 'Thaxted Airfield Memorial loop'. These routes typically range from 5 to 7 kilometers. You can find more details and options in the Easy hikes around Great Easton guide.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or picturesque spots?
Finchingfield Village Green is a beautiful and popular spot, often busy with cyclists and classic cars, offering a charming village scene. Additionally, the Scenic Country Lane provides stunning views with minimal car traffic, perfect for photography.
What dining and refreshment options are available in the area?
Finchingfield Village Green is a hub for refreshments, featuring pubs and tea shops. Many villages in the region offer local cafes and pubs where you can stop for a meal or a drink.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Great Easton?
Visitors frequently praise the picturesque beauty of places like Finchingfield Village Green, noting its charm and lively atmosphere. The ancient and well-preserved nature of Hatfield Forest is also highly appreciated for its natural beauty and wildlife. Cyclists enjoy the varied terrain and scenic routes like the Roos Byway and the Scenic Country Lane.
Are there any specific considerations for walking or cycling on trails?
When using trails like the Roos Byway, be prepared for potential overhanging branches or thorns, especially after rain, as some sections can become overgrown. On the Scenic Country Lane, be aware of a challenging hill near Pinchpools Farm if heading northbound, and consider wind conditions on the northerly plain.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in the area?
While not widely publicized, the Scenic Country Lane is considered a hidden gem by many, offering a tranquil and beautiful cycling or walking experience with few cars. The historic St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, also offers a quiet glimpse into local history and architecture.
Can I find places for accommodation near Great Easton?
While specific accommodations are not detailed in the guide, the region around Great Easton, being a popular area for outdoor activities and historical exploration, offers various options including pubs with rooms, guesthouses, and potentially campsites or B&Bs in nearby villages.
Most popular routes around Great Easton
Most popular attractions around Great Easton
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