Bulmer: Church, Brickmaking History and Walks

Bulmer offers three distinct points of interest for a stay: St Andrew’s Church, surrounded by a group of historic buildings; a long tradition of brickmaking; and walks through the countryside along Belchamp Brook. If you would like to focus on heritage, craftsmanship or time outdoors, these aspects can be clearly distinguished in Bulmer. The church’s architectural history and the streetscape form the historic focus; open space and the walking route offer a different way to experience the village.

St Andrew’s Church and the historic village landscape

St Andrew’s Church stands on a high ridge overlooking the village street. A cluster of historic buildings in the Bulmer Conservation Area is grouped around the church. This places the church building and the historic buildings in a clear spatial relationship.

The church’s architectural history spans several centuries: some of the fabric may date from the 12th century; other parts date from the 14th and 15th centuries, and restoration work took place in the 19th century. The church also has a 15th-century font depicting the “Green Man”. Anyone interested in church architecture will find several periods represented here, from the possibly early fabric through medieval features to later restorations.

The streets are also part of the village landscape. Narrow roads with grassy verges, hedges and low brick walls shape Bulmer’s streets. When exploring the village’s historic character, these features are as much a part of the scene as the church and the buildings grouped around it.

Brickmaking tradition and craftsmanship

A brickworks has been operating at the site of Bulmer Brick & Tile on Hedingham Road (B1058), southwest of Bulmer, since the 15th century. Bulmer Brick & Tile specialises in hand-cut, carefully shaped special bricks made from its own washed clay and BBT Rubbers. This brings together the site’s long brickmaking tradition and a specific area of craftsmanship.

The brickworks is not regularly open for public tours. The company welcomes groups of two to more than 30 people by prior arrangement. This visitor requirement is important if you are considering including the brickworks in your travel plans.

Open space and walking routes

Coe’s Meadow is a publicly accessible open space for recreation, with views of the church. The Belchamp Brook walking trail follows footpaths along Belchamp Brook and through water meadows; the route then visits St Andrew’s Church in Bulmer. This offers two distinct options: a public recreational space with views of the church, or a route combining the brook, meadow landscape and a church visit.

Several walks also offer views of the deep hollows of old chalk pits. So choosing between the options depends on more than just an interest in the church: Coe’s Meadow offers space for recreation, while the walking trail takes in several landscape features along the way. As path conditions can change, it is advisable to check the route’s current conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Stondon Massey, Loughton, Epping, Woodham Ferrers, Colchester, Earls Colne, St Lawrence, Saint Osyth.

For the broader travel overview: Essex.