The pretty parish of Cressing
by: propertywidearticles
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Date: Tue, 5 Apr 2011 Time: 4:03 AM
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The pretty parish of Cressing is located to the south east of Braintree, Essex. Cressing has an interesting history and is known as the earliest British settlement of the Knights Templar, the mysterious warrior monks who were among the most skilled fighters during the Crusades. The vast medieval barns at Cressing Temple are said to be Europe's two finest Templar barns. Today they form the centrepiece of a rural estate that also includes beautiful Tudor walled gardens, a Tudor granary and a 17th century farmhouse.
Cressing itself is a relatively small parish with a population of under 2,000 noted during the 2001 census. It boasts a number of facilities including a train station, choice of pubs, grocery store, post office and primary school. The centre of Braintree is less than four miles away, offering all the amenities that one would expect in a sizeable town.
Braintree is the principal settlement in the district, located within easy reach of Chelmsford and Colchester and with two railway stations, Braintree and Braintree Freeport. It is approximately 40 miles from London and trains from the town travel to Liverpool Street via Witham.
Braintree has a long history and was recorded in the Domesday book of 1085. It prospered in the 17th century when Flemish immigrants made the town well known for its wool cloth trade. By the early 19th century the town had become known for its silk manufacturing, led by George Courtauld, whose family held a strong influence over the town. This industrial and commercial heritage can be explored at the Braintree District Museum and the Warner Textile Archive.
There are many other interesting museums and heritage centres in the area. Bocking Windmill is an 18th century post mill with a two storey roundhouse. It has been recently restored and contains much of the original equipment. The smaller Finchingfield Windmill is another post mill in the area and is open to the public on specified days throughout the summer months.
Hedingham Castle is a fascinating Norman motte and bailey castle with a stone keep. Built by the Aubrey de Vere in the 12th century, the castle is still owned by one of his descendants. A number of events take place throughout the year including jousting contests during the summer months.
The area also has some lovely open spaces. The Great Notley Country Park is set in over 100 acres of wetland and open grassland. It is home to a number of mature examples of native trees, many creatures including bats and some beautiful wildflowers. The area is popular with walkers, joggers, horse-riders and families alike and a number of events take place throughout the year.
There is much in the way of entertainment here too. Shoppers find a wide range of retail facilities on offer, from small independent shops to the well known names that can be found at the Freeport designer outlet centre. Braintree also has a cinema, bowling alley, arts centre and its own football team. With so much within easy access, Cressing is an ideal place to spend some time offering opportunities to step back in time as well as enjoy the modern world.
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