If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of life in the city, then a weekend in Finchingfield is just what you need. This little village in Essex is just 54 miles away from London and is one of the most photographed villages in England.
You’ll find a beautiful duck pond, rolling green hills, colourful thatched cottages and an 18th-century windmill to name just a few places within walking distance of each other. There are plenty of things to do in Finchingfield to keep you busy! Here’s a guide to visiting this picturesque village…
This idyllic village has long captured the hearts of anyone who visits. It’s a textbook example of a traditional English village and has all of the charms to match. However, Finchingfield offers more than just stunning views; it also has an intriguing history that dates back to the Anglo-Saxons.
It was first recorded as a settlement in the famous Domesday Book of 1086 under the name Phincinghefelda. Throughout the centuries, the village has remained largely unchanged and still features many historical buildings.
Where to go
The green
Village green & pond
At the heart of the village, you’ll find a delightful duck pond surrounded by lush greenery, a few shops, a pub and a little hump-backed bridge. Keep an eye out for dragonflies in the summertime, or baby ducks in the spring.
The landmark
The windmill
One of the most recognizable landmarks is the iconic 18th-century windmill perched atop the village green. We were lucky enough to go inside on an open day. Once we climbed the narrow, steep stairs we were treated to some wonderful views across the village.
The village
Guildhall & St. John’s
Begin at the Finchingfield Guildhall, a stunning timber-framed building constructed in the 1500’s. St. John’s Church is another must-see, with its impressive medieval tower and a graveyard filled with old headstones.
Where to eat
Breakfast
Winners Tearoom
Open from 9 am most days. A traditional English tearoom for a hearty breakfast, or coffee and cake, with a terrace overlooking the village green.
Lunch
Picture Pot Tearoom
If you have a craving for jam, scones and clotted cream this is the place to go. Open on weekends and Tuesdays between 10 am – 4 pm.
Dinner
The Lion & The Fox Inn
The Finchingfield Lion is a dog-friendly pub — if you want a Sunday Roast this is the place to go. The Fox Inn, a 16th Century Coaching Inn, overlooks the village green and duck pond.
Where to stay
A 10-minute walk
Unplugged Rest
If you’re planning a weekend in this part of Essex, I would highly recommend staying in an Unplugged Rest. We spent a weekend in an off-grid cabin just a short 10-minute walk out of the village and it was the perfect accommodation.
A short drive
Saffron Walden
For other options, Saffron Walden is just a short drive away and is a great base for exploring these areas. The historic town is 9 miles from Finchingfield, with a magnificent medieval market square.
Nearby
6 miles
Great Bardfield
Just 6 miles away from Finchingfield you’ll find this picturesque village full of historic buildings.
9 miles
Saffron Walden
This historic town has a rich heritage, a magnificent medieval market square, streets full of interesting shops and an impressive museum.
Nearby
Thaxted
Known for its historic architecture, windmill and guildhall — this little village looks straight out of a postcard.
On the map
Finchingfield, Essex
Postcode
CM7 4JS
What3Words
///cracks.toxic.amounting
Co-ordinates
51.9675° N, 0.4501° E
From London
54 miles
There isn’t a car park in the village — on-street parking is free, and easier before 10am on bank holidays and in high summer.
A note on this stay I stayed at Unplugged Rest as a guest. The notes in this guide are my own, written as I’d pass them to a friend heading to the same village.
