Views across the Thames estuary, ancient ruins, and fantastic countryside walks make Hadleigh in Essex a great place to visit. Hadleigh in Essex has years of fascinating history to show you including ancient castle ruins and wonderful woodland walks. And now, thanks to its status as the site of the Olympic mountain biking contest, people are starting to take notice of this hidden treasure in South East Essex.
Hadleigh Castle was built during the 13th century and although the towers are now ruins, there is still plenty to see there. For the duration of the Hundred Years War, Hadleigh Castle was one of the many defences against the French. Whilst the first tower has decayed somewhat, the second tower is still standing to almost its original height and you’ll have great fun exploring these ancient ruins. You can stand inside Hadleigh Castle’s ruins and get a really good feel of what life must have been like back in those ancient days. People visiting Hadleigh these days come to view the amazing ruins with a picnic in tow or to fly a kite from the top of the hill.
A little further down from Hadleigh Castle is the Salvation Army Centre and Rare Breeds Farm. Many people flock to visit the Salvation Army Centre and farm and this attraction is becoming more and more popular. Many people flock to Hadleigh Rare Breeds Farm where this is so much to do and see especially for young children. Down on the farm you can make friends with lots of British rare breeds including pigs, sheep, poultry and goats. It also has a maze, sandpit and ride on tractors. The most recent additions of a fort and pirate ship climbing frames are great fun for children of all ages. The farm is a very cheap day out and you can expect to pay under £10 for a family of four and that includes all the activities inside!
When you’ve had enough of the farm you can pop to the visitor’s centre for a cup of tea and a rest whilst you take in the marvellous views across the estuary. If you are after some local produce head on down to the Hadleigh farmer’s market which is held here once a month.
Hadleigh Essex Country Park has some of the best wildlife can be found in the Essex countryside and Hadleigh Country Park is no exception Hadleigh Country Park also allures many visitors each year and is a great place to experience the great outdoors and also look for wildlife. If you like to take extensive walks through the countryside then Hadleigh Country Park is definitely a winner. In addition to its clearly marked walking trails, Hadleigh Country Park also has many cycling and bridle paths giving you additional ways to explore. Hadleigh this time next year will be buzzing with excitement in preparation for the 2012 Olympic Games – take a trip next year to get involved in the action. Transport links into Hadleigh are good and in addition to good road systems there are many buses that pass through the area. Why not take a trip to Hadleigh Essex today. Whether you visit Hadleigh Castle, the Rare Breeds Farm, or simply want to see the Olympics sites it is well worth a trip!