Halstead, a Civil Parish and Town in the Braintree District of the Essex County in England
The town of Halstead in the Braintree District of the English County of Essex is also a civil parish. The town is located in the Colne Valley close to Sudbury and Colchester. Originally, the town grew up on the hill to the north of the river.
Food, Shopping and Accommodation in Halstead
Shopping on the high street is a unique experience. Although big chain stores are represented here, there is a collection of independent retailers that visitors appreciate and patronised by the locals. The thirty-eighth eating establishments in this town include cafes, wine bars, bakeries, fine dining restaurants, takeaways, bars, pubs, tea shops, and fish bars. The menu offerings range from traditional British to exotic Asian dishes. There is one hotel, five B&Bs/inns and farm cottages to house visitors of the town.
Things to See and Do in Halstead
The 14th Century church of St Andrew dominates the wide High Street. The church underwent a massive renovation during the Victorian period but has kept most of the old embellishments including a tomb that dates back to the 14th Century or even earlier.
To get a good view of the historic heart of Halstead, one has to go on a walk up the market hill. The town is a walker’s paradise with its river walk which traverses the town from east to west. The Brooks Walk which is just outside the town and owned by the Forestry Commission is also a big favourite. The pride of the town is the Halstead Public Gardens established in 1900 famous for its floral display.
The Townsford Mill, a wood-framed building that straddles the River Colne at the bottom of the town, is home to the Antiques Centre.The centre has thousands of unique and delightful pieces that range from household items to clothing. The town museum connected to the offices of the town council has several historical artefacts as well as items of interest not only to the locals but also to visitors.