Dedham Delightful

Essex has many charming towns and villages, not to mention some extremely picturesque landscapes, but Dedham must be one of the brightest jewels in its crown. Petra Horns by went to explore.

- Petra Hornsby

SITUATED in northeast Essex, on the border with Suffolk, Dedham is a village that has plenty to offer both visitor and resident which has become quite a tourist hot spot. The village rests in the Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it isn’t hard to see why it attracts so many daytrippers. Its green, lush lowlands with the River Stour meandering throughout are a great lure to visitors keen to see the compositions that once inspired one of the country’s most famous landscape artists.

John Constable went to school in Dedham and would walk back across the meadows to his home in neighbouring East Bergholt, drinking in the scenery which would later move him to paint some magnificent local views. Today, the area is affectionately referred to as Constable Country.

The walk from across the bridge, that divides the two counties, and then along the Stour to Flatford Mill — the route Constable may have taken — is a lovely way to soak up the atmosphere, although be warned, you might have to share some space with some inquisitive grazing cows! Others might opt to rent a boat (available from the Boathouse restaurant) and row themselves to Flatford – an easy option or hard work depending on your rowing skills, but certainly great fun –especially on a sunny summer day.

On high days and holidays, Dedham is certainly packed with people wanting to spend time by the river, browse in the shops along the High Street and then grab a tea, light lunch or an ice cream from the Essex Rose Tea House. There are several places to eat in the village including several pubs, restaurants and tea rooms.