Discover Takeley: churches, woodland and trails

Takeley brings together the history of its churches and village with nature and walking trails. Different interests can shape your stay: the features of historic churches, the landscape of Hatfield Forest or trails with a described route. If you’re looking for a hotel in Takeley, this distinction can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

Churches and local history

The Church of the Holy Trinity in Takeley is a listed building in the highest English category of protection, Grade I. The pulpit, font and font cover date from the 15th century. While the designation indicates the level of protection, the three features provide a specific link to that period. The church is easily accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs; confirm the facilities before you arrive.

Takeley Chapel in Brewers End adds another timeline to this history: it was founded in 1808, opened for worship in November of that year, and belonged to the Independent Protestant denomination. It was rebuilt in 1902. These dates mark distinct stages—its founding, the start of worship and the later rebuilding—rather than just a single point in time.

St John the Evangelist in Bush End was built in the mid-19th century for the village’s population and welcomes villagers, visitors and pilgrims. The Takeley to Wall Wood circular walk passes the church and lists it as a point of interest along the route. Check operational details before your trip.

Near Takeley, the site of Warish Hall and the remains of Takeley Priory are designated as a Scheduled Monument. The site includes a complete rectangular moat within a much larger enclosed moat complex. Another layer of history reaches far back: a prehistoric settlement dating from before 2000 BC was discovered in the Parish of Takeley.

Hatfield Forest and trails through the countryside

Hatfield Forest is on Bush End Road in Takeley and is an ancient royal hunting forest. It is designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Its landscape features include traditionally managed coppice woodland and historic rides; it is also home to rare species and a wild herd of fallow deer. For nature enthusiasts, both historic woodland management and wildlife are highlights of a stay.

The Takeley to Wall Wood circular walk is 9.5 miles long. It starts at the disused railway station in Takeley, crosses the countryside to old Wall Wood and returns to Takeley. The Flitch Way follows a different route: this 15-mile, flat, traffic-free route runs through the Essex countryside along a former railway line from Braintree to Bishop’s Stortford. The former railway line served Takeley.

Two differences are useful when comparing the routes: the Takeley to Wall Wood circular walk is described as a loop returning to Takeley, while the Flitch Way is 15 miles long and follows the former railway line. Conditions on the circular walk and along the Flitch Way can change; check them before setting out.

Getting there

In Takeley Street, Arriva bus route 508 serves The Green Man stop. If you plan to use this service, check the route with the operator before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Earls Colne, Stansted Mountfitchet, Roydon, Hempstead, Little Waltham, Chigwell, Thaxted, Broxted

For the wider travel overview: Essex.