The quintessential riverside Essex village said to be one of the prettiest in the county

Battlesbridge
-Credit: (Image: Google)


Nestled in south Essex, there is an adorable riverside village that is incredibly unique, and visiting feels like a completely different world to the hustle and bustle of Essex's busier towns. Full of natural beauty, a lack of new builds and very peaceful, this village is a perfect escape from the city.

Battlesbridge is a tiny hamlet in the parish of Rettendon, 10 miles from Chelmsford and Southend On Sea. Like many hamlets it's small, remote and very community based - perfect for a short get away and immersing yourself in one of the county's hidden gems.

This village was also named one of the prettiest in Essex. Goodmove said: "Sitting on the River Crouch, Battlesbridge is a particularly scenic location. Appreciated as a hub for antiques, arts and collectables, the village has a very old-fashioned feel."

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The tiny hamlet is also a conservation area, which is very apt considering its natural beauty, with Battlebridge straddling the River Crouch. The Battlesbridge conservation area boundary is loosely drawn around the historic core of the settlement, and is perfect for a relaxing village stroll.

With two pubs, two tea shops and an antiques centre the hamlet is relatively self-sufficient. It's only missing a supermarket - with the nearest being three miles away. The nearest supermarket is just under three miles away - but it would take an hour to walk there.

Despite missing this modern amenity, Battlebridge is a great tourist location. More people come to visit the cafes and antiques - with one antique centre located in a former mill.

Classic car and motorbike shows are also held at the village each year, and Battlesbridge is therefore very popular with motorbike groups. For some years, the Battlesbridge Rural Theatre staged outdoor shows in a barn with proceeds going to local charities.

One of the hamlet's pubs is held in very high regard by both visitors and locals. The Barge Inn is a fantastic 300-year-old inn, full of character, with customers praising its traditional atmosphere, brilliant Sunday roasts and dog-friendly features.

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