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Uttlesford

Henham

Attractions and Places To See around Henham - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Henham encompass two distinct locations in England: a charming village in Essex and a large park estate in Suffolk. Henham, Essex, offers historical elements like its 12th-century church and village ponds, surrounded by arable fields and woodland. Henham Park in Suffolk is a 4,200-acre estate known for hosting major events and featuring ancient hunting grounds and medieval remains. Both areas provide opportunities for exploring countryside and cultural sites.

Best attractions and places to see around Henham

  • The most popular attractions is Audley End House, a historical site that is a 17th-century mansion. It is known as a prodigy house and offers impressive views, including from Adam Bridge.
  • Another must-see spot is Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake within an ancient royal hunting forest. Visitors can expect to find ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a beautiful lake within this preserved medieval forest.
  • Visitors also love Roos Byway, a cycle way through a forest. This gravel and dirt track offers a fun and fast route for cyclists.
  • Henham is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from grand estates to ancient woodlands.
  • The attractions around Henham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 11, 2026

Audley End House

Highlight • Historical Site

House and gardens are only for entry (about £ 20) to visit. Part of the park is freely accessible from the village.

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Hatfield Forest Lake

Highlight • Lake

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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This cafe has now changed management and is called Waffle and Coffee. Still has bike racks and outside seating although I did not see the bike locks last time I was there. Staff still great and the food is even better. Bacon and egg sandwich is very good. Coffee, Tea and cakes and of course waffles. Good clean toilets so well worth visiting as a rest stop.

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Roos Byway

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Fun/Fast Gravel & Dirt track.

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Bridge End Gardens

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Bridge End Gardens were built part on fields and previous garden on the edge of Saffron Walden and covers an area of 2.7 hectares (7 acres).[2][3] The area was set out as gardens from around 1828 by Atkinson Francis Gibson and his wife Elizabeth.[2] From 1838, his son Francis Gibson – who, as a Quaker, was interested in horticulture [3] and had also completed a garden design for his sister – began creating a new garden with the help of a local nurseryman William Chater (breeder of Chater Hollyhocks). [4][5] Gibson considered the Dutch Garden to be of utmost importance, and as such should be visible to visitors as they enter. [3]The hedge maze (based upon the layout of the maze at Hampton Court Palace) was planted around 1870, and restored in 1984 with 11,000 yew seedlings, [5] by which stage the garden was under the management of a local agent and was used as a venue for shows by the Saffron Walden horticultural society.


en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_End_Gardens

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Popular around Henham

Saffron Trail – Countryside to coast through rural Essex

Road Cycling Routes around Henham

Running Trails around Henham

Hiking around Henham

MTB Trails around Henham

Gravel biking around Henham

Cycling around Henham

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Saffron Trail – Countryside to coast through rural Essex

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Jen & Sim Benson

Tips from the Community

Adam VdB
December 26, 2024, Roos Byway

Great greenlane/byeway

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Braders
August 26, 2024, Roos Byway

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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Braders
April 13, 2024, Roos Byway

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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Braders
April 13, 2024, Roos Byway

Nice dip through water 10 April 24

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This cafe has now changed management and is called Waffle and Coffee. Still has bike racks and outside seating although I did not see the bike locks last time I was there. Staff still great and the food is even better. Bacon and egg sandwich is very good. Coffee, Tea and cakes and of course waffles. Good clean toilets so well worth visiting as a rest stop.

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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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Fantastic view of Audley End House from Adam Bridge. Audley End is a 17th Century mansion that is known as a prodigy house, meaning that it is extra impressive. Often seen on TV on the likes of Antiques Roadshow, the house used to three times the size, if you can believe it. It's a fabulous view as you cycling past, and worth making a detour out of Saffron Walden for.

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Braders
May 14, 2023, Roos Byway

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 historical attractions can I visit around Henham?

Henham offers a rich history across its two locations. In Henham, Essex, you can explore the 12th-century Church of St Mary the Virgin, known for its unique 'anti body-snatchers' grave and ancient bells. The village also features a War Memorial and the former school, now the OSCA community hall. Near Henham, you can visit Audley End House, a magnificent 17th-century mansion, and the historic Bridge End Gardens with its hedge maze. In Henham, Suffolk, the extensive Henham Park estate holds medieval remains, including a moat and church in Tuttles Wood, and was once an ancient hunting ground.

Are there any natural landmarks or scenic viewpoints in the Henham area?

Yes, the region boasts several natural highlights. In Henham, Essex, you'll find charming village ponds, surrounded by arable fields, woodland, and heathland, perfect for enjoying the countryside and bird-watching. Nearby, Hatfield Forest Lake is located within one of the best-preserved medieval forests, offering ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a beautiful lake. For impressive views, the Adam Bridge near Audley End House provides a fantastic photo opportunity of the mansion.

What outdoor activities can I do near Henham's attractions?

The Henham area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy walking and bird-watching in the countryside and woodland surrounding Henham, Essex. For more structured activities, there are numerous routes for cycling, hiking, and running. Explore various cycling routes, including the fun Roos Byway through a forest. Discover hiking trails of varying difficulties, or find suitable running trails for a jog.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Henham?

Absolutely! Many attractions in the Henham area are suitable for families. Audley End House offers a grand estate experience, while Hatfield Forest Lake provides a natural playground with ancient trees and wildlife. Bridge End Gardens features a fun hedge maze that children often enjoy. The village ponds in Henham, Essex, are also a hit with younger visitors, especially during late spring when ducklings are present.

What is Henham Park known for?

Henham Park in Suffolk is primarily known as a large, 4,200-acre estate that serves as a major venue for annual events. It famously hosts the Latitude Festival, a popular arts festival featuring music, theatre, and comedy, as well as the Grand Henham Steam Rally. The estate also features ancient hunting grounds, medieval remains, and offers yoga classes at Henham Yoga.

Where can I find a good cafe or place to eat near the attractions?

For a convenient stop, consider Waffle (Formerly Bicicletta). This cafe is known for its good food, including bacon and egg sandwiches and waffles, excellent coffee, and clean facilities. It's also bike-friendly with racks and outdoor seating. Additionally, Henham Barns on the Henham Park estate offer wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients.

What unique local legends or features does Henham, Essex, have?

Henham, Essex, is known for a quirky local legend involving a 'Flying Serpent' dating back to 1669. This dragon motif is still visible today on many signs throughout the village. The village also has a unique listed telephone box that has been repurposed into a free community library, adding to its distinctive charm.

Are there any annual events or festivals in the Henham area?

Yes, the region hosts several notable events. Henham Park in Suffolk is the venue for major annual gatherings like the Latitude Festival, a large arts festival, and the Grand Henham Steam Rally. In Henham, Essex, the village hosts a bi-annual 10-kilometre run in the final weeks of May, attracting local participants and spectators.

What is the best time to visit Henham for outdoor activities?

The countryside and woodland around Henham are enjoyable throughout the year. Late spring is particularly charming in Henham, Essex, when ducklings are present in the village ponds. For events at Henham Park, such as the Latitude Festival or Steam Rally, specific dates apply, typically in summer. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring trails and natural features, though some routes like Roos Byway can become overgrown after rain.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Henham?

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. For instance, the impressive views of Audley End House from Adam Bridge are a highlight. The ancient and well-preserved nature of Hatfield Forest Lake and its diverse wildlife are also highly valued. Cyclists enjoy the 'fun and fast' gravel tracks like Roos Byway, while the unique hedge maze at Bridge End Gardens is a popular feature.

Can I find dog-friendly walks in the Henham area?

Yes, the surrounding countryside and woodland areas offer opportunities for dog walking. While specific rules may apply to certain estates or nature reserves, the general rural landscape provides ample space for walks. For example, Hatfield Forest, home to Hatfield Forest Lake, is a large area where dogs are generally welcome, though always check for specific signage regarding leads or restricted areas, especially near wildlife.

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