The little-known Essex village so pretty it strikes people with rural character and charm

Essex is hugely lucky to have such wonderful places. From quaint, rural areas that still holds its period features to the more modernised and build up areas, we have it all.

We definitely have some of the best places to call home in our county - and one little-known village is just that. Some of the village's wonderful features have even been said to be amongst the best in the country - and its easy to see why.

Copford, a small village nestled in the Essex countryside, is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its quintessential rural charm. The poet Matthew Arnold noted in 1870 that he was struck by "the deeply rural character of the village and neighbourhood."

READ MORE: The overlooked Essex commuter suburb that’s been swarmed with soldiers for the past 200 years

READ MORE: The Essex seaside town among the happiest to live which also has the cheapest homes

Copford in the City of Colchester district of Essex, three kilometres west of Colchester, with the hamlet of Copford Green found a short distance to the south. Unlike the more tourist-heavy locales, Copford offers an unspoiled glimpse into England's pastoral beauty. The village, with its idyllic landscapes, quaint cottages, and a community steeped in tradition, strikes a perfect balance between historical significance and serene, countryside allure.

One of the most striking features of Copford is its remarkable St. Michael and All Angels Church, a Norman building renowned for its impressive medieval frescoes. These murals, dating back to the 12th century, depict various biblical scenes and are considered some of the finest examples of Norman church art in England.

The remarkable Norman wall paintings are the real attraction, described by Simon Jenkins as “amongst the best in England”. Only five minutes off the A12 just south of Colchester, they are certainly worth a detour if you are visiting East Anglia.

It is also home to Copford Hall, a manorial seat and stunning Grade II listed country house. The building was at one time owned by the bishops of London, and its grounds are described in Pevsner as "almost the beau idéal of what to the foreigner is an English landscape scene".

The present house is a large, square red-brick building with stone dressing and ornamentation, the façade the result of alterations in the early 1800s. However, the majority of the structure dates back to 1720, and parts of the inside to the early 1600s. The extensive grounds include canals, fishponds and water features. On the lowest pool is a classical boathouse.

The village's layout further enhances its charm, with winding lanes bordered by lush greenery and traditional English gardens. Timber-framed houses with thatched roofs dot the landscape, exuding a timeless appeal that transports visitors back to a bygone era. Seasonal blooms add splashes of colour to the verdant surroundings, creating picturesque vistas that epitomise rural beauty.

Copford's community spirit is another cornerstone of its appeal. The village, though small, boasts a vibrant and welcoming community. Local events, such as village fairs, fetes, and farmers' markets, are frequent and well-attended, fostering a strong sense of togetherness.

The surrounding countryside of Copford offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Scenic walking trails and cycling routes meander through the rolling fields and woodlands, inviting exploration and adventure. The area's natural beauty, combined with its tranquillity, makes it a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Get more news from EssexLive straight to your inbox for FREE