boydens.co.uk 53 Location focus Historic Essex The Braintree District has a vast range of historically important buildings. Visit Cressing Temple Barns, between Witham and Braintree; it’s of supreme interest for its unique buildings and gardens, gifted to the Knights Templar in 1137. Among Cressing Temple’s many gardens, the Walled Garden is a lovely place to wander; it’s been faithfully reconstructed as a Tudor pleasure garden – one of a few in the country. Also, tuck into a yummy cream tea at a Tiptree tearoom, ‘The Barns’, which offers a range of homemade meals with fresh and local ingredients. Hop on over to Hedingham Castle too and step back into mediaeval England and watch jousting in the castle grounds. Or try an escape room with a difference on the top floor of the castle’s keep. Vineyards Thanks to its warm and dry climes, Essex has become renowned for its excellent vineyards. Just a short drive from Witham is Bardfield Vineyard which has been producing award-winning wine for almost 30 years. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the vineyard and wine tasting either with a self-guided trail or for groups by appointment. Wine can also be purchased from the vineyard shop. To discover more, www.visitessex.com SCAN HERE A bright future Supporting the availability of good quality, sustainable and affordable A BRIGHT FUTURE Supporting the availability of good quality, sustainable and affordable homes that best meet the needs of current and future residents remains a key priority for Braintree District Council. More than 400 affordable homes were completed across the district in 2021-22, the highest number ever delivered in one year. The council is also investing £24.3 million into Horizon 120 – a 65-acre business and innovation park being built just off the A131 at Great Notley in Braintree, strategically close to the A120. The development will create up to 2,000 jobs for local people, and includes a new enterprise centre, providing space for conferences and events as well as
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA4ODM=