Attractions and Places To See around Takeley - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Takeley include a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. This village in the Uttlesford district of Essex, England, offers diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient forests, historical churches, and numerous listed buildings that reflect the area's rich past. The region also provides opportunities for outdoor activities through shared-use paths and scenic country lanes.
Best attractions and places to see around Takeley
- The most popular attractions is Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake that is part of 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.
- Another must-see spot is The Snug at High Easter, a cafe. This spot offers plenty of seating and a good selection of food and drinks, welcoming cyclists.
- Visitors also love St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, a religious building and historical site. Dating from the 1850s, this church was built in the Gothic style and has connections to the nearby Hatfield Forest.
- Takeley is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient woodlands to historical churches and quiet country lanes.
- The attractions around Takeley are appreciated by the komoot community, with 20 photos and 28 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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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The Snug at High Easter
Highlight • Cafe
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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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The Street (Gt Hormead to Stocking Pelham)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Other adventures around Takeley
Tips from the Community
Brilliant cafe in High Easter - great place for a cafe stop on a ride through Essex. Well worth checking out
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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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Scenic road through scenic countryside. Road is quite narrow and just east of East End the surface has collapsed leaving the road flooded by the adjacent stream and strewn with loose stones, so go easy into the blind corners.
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If heading northbound, watch out for the hill you hit at Pinchpools Farm. An absolute gut-buster to get up. Obviously fly down as fast as you dare southbound. The wind can be a killer up on the northerly plain.
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Stunning section of connected lanes where you'll hardy see a car. Lots of opportunities for great photos.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Takeley?
Takeley is closely associated with Hatfield Forest, an ancient royal hunting forest considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally. You can explore Hatfield Forest Lake, ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a meandering river. The forest is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve.
Are there historical sites to visit in Takeley?
Yes, Takeley has a rich history. You can visit Holy Trinity Church, a 12th-century parish church with Roman tiles incorporated into its walls. Another notable historical site is St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, built in the Gothic style in the 1850s with connections to Hatfield Forest. The village also boasts over 60 listed buildings, particularly around Molehill Green, showcasing its architectural heritage.
What outdoor activities are available around Takeley?
The area around Takeley offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, hiking, and cycling. The Flitch Way, a former railway line, is now a shared-use path ideal for these activities. For more structured routes, you can find various hiking trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails in the vicinity.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Takeley?
Absolutely. Hatfield Forest is a fantastic family-friendly destination, offering space to explore nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy the lake. For refreshments, The Snug at High Easter is a welcoming cafe with plenty of seating and a good selection of food and drinks, suitable for families.
Where can I find good walking or hiking trails near Takeley?
Takeley is an excellent base for walking. Hatfield Forest offers numerous trails, including easy loops around Hatfield Forest Lake. The Flitch Way also provides a scenic route for walks. For a wider selection of routes, explore the hiking guide for Takeley, which includes trails of varying difficulties.
What cycling routes are available around Takeley?
Cyclists will enjoy the area's quiet country lanes and dedicated paths. The Flitch Way is a popular shared-use path. You can also discover scenic routes like the Scenic Country Lane, known for its lack of traffic and photo opportunities, or The Street (Gt Hormead to Stocking Pelham) for a more challenging ride. For more options, check out the road cycling guide and MTB trails guide for Takeley.
Where can I find refreshments or a place to eat near the attractions?
For a pleasant stop, The Snug at High Easter is a highly-rated cafe known for its friendly atmosphere and good selection of food and drinks, especially welcoming to cyclists. There is also a cafe located within Hatfield Forest itself.
What is the historical significance of Hatfield Forest?
Hatfield Forest is historically significant as the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest dating back to the Norman kings. It was established in the late 11th century for deer hunting and was subject to Forest Laws. It's considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world, with a medieval warren within it designated as a Scheduled Monument.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in Takeley?
Yes, the area offers several scenic spots. The Scenic Country Lane is highlighted for its beautiful stretch of narrow lanes and opportunities for great photos. Similarly, The Street (Gt Hormead to Stocking Pelham) also offers wonderful views, particularly over open fields.
What is the best time to visit Takeley for outdoor activities?
While Takeley's attractions can be enjoyed year-round, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the natural beauty of Hatfield Forest and cycling the country lanes. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the forest, and even winter walks can be rewarding, though some routes might be more challenging depending on conditions.
Can I bring my dog on trails around Takeley?
Many outdoor areas around Takeley, including Hatfield Forest and the Flitch Way, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and to check specific rules for each location before your visit.
What makes Takeley unique compared to other places in Essex?
Takeley stands out due to its direct association with Hatfield Forest, a unique and historically significant ancient royal hunting forest. This, combined with its wealth of preserved listed buildings and the scenic Flitch Way, offers a distinct blend of natural heritage, deep history, and outdoor recreation opportunities not always found together in other parts of Essex.
Most popular routes around Takeley
Most popular attractions around Takeley
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