24 hours in Thaxted: things to do, where to eat and property

Things to do, where to eat, accommodation and top property for sale in Thaxted, Essex

For more than 1,000 years, people have been drawn to the vibrant and picturesque town of Thaxted. Its timeless appeal lies in the stunning medieval architecture and assortment of independent shops, cafes and pubs. You can easily while away a day exploring the famous Guildhall, Thaxted Parish Church and the pretty windmill, taking in hundreds of years of history in the process. 

History of Thaxted

The name Thaxted derives from the old English meaning a place where thatching materials were found. Surrounded by rolling countryside, and approached by the winding B184, the architecturally rich place displays its medieval heritage with pride. According to thaxted.co.uk, it has a recorded history dating back to before the Domesday Book.  

Thaxted was a prosperous community by the end of the Saxon period. It had become a centre for a cutlery industry in the 13th century, with much of its population employed in the trade. In the 14th century it saw a period of rapid expansion, but the industry appears to have died out by the 16th century. The earliest record of a church was in 981, which was replaced with money from cutlery in the 14th and 15th centuries.  

READ MORE: Thaxted’s timbered charm

Things to do in Thaxted

You won’t find modern tourist attractions here, but it makes for a wholesome day out, which is steeped in history. An added bonus is that there is free car parking for four hours on Park Street.  

The three big must-sees, all within walking distance of each other, are the 15th century Guildhall, the magnificent Thaxted Parish Church and John Webbs Windmill. These stunning sites are set against a backdrop of medieval houses and countryside views. 

Among the famous inhabitants are English composer Gustav Holst, who moved into Thaxted to live in The Steps, 19 Town Street, with his family in 1917. A blue plaque has been put up beside the front door to commemorate his work and connection to the town. In those days, it was a quiet place to work for him and Holst wrote several pieces specially for Thaxted, including Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, according to thaxted.co.uk. 

World-famous fine art pottery Moorcroft holds regular events in the town where you can see and purchase its exquisite pieces, which have been treasured by royalty and celebrities alike since 1897. The next event is being held at Thaxted Guildhall on March 17 and 18, 2023. 

Many visitors know Thaxted for its connection with the Thaxted Morris Men, founded in 1911, and for the Thaxted Festival, a renowned music festival held in the church during June and July.  

Vintage Style Living (Image: Newsquest)Where to shop in Thaxted 

There are lots of lovely independent shops to peruse in the town. Vintage Style Living is teeming with gorgeous interior items such as pretty vases, candles and dried flowers, alongside a coffee bar serving up tasty hot drinks. They also offer an interior design service. 

Gifted Thaxted is a Tardis of a shop with a vast array of beautiful and ethical goods, including cards, crockery, eco-friendly cleaning products, jewellery, handbags and clothing. There is little you won’t find here! Enjoy a potter around the newsagent and stationer A. R.Waylett, which is as pretty to look at as it is to peruse. Thaxted Post Office also has items on offer for visitors.  

On the more practical side, there is Lowe H & Co for pet care and home and garden supplies. Other intrinsic shops in the community are Thaxted Bakery and Butchery offering a fine selection of baked goods and locally sourced produce. 

There are plenty of pubs serving up British classics (Image: Getty)Dining out in Thaxted 

Enjoy a delicious meal at Parrishes, where you will find a selection of freshly cooked food. This place was recommended to us by locals as a great place to stop for lunch, and it also has a fine view of the Guildhall. 

Head to The Star Brasserie for classic British pub food, from fish and chips and burgers to coq au vin and seafood specials – it has a good vegetarian selection as well.  

The Maypole offers up a choice of tasty pub staples in a pretty setting – or why not whet your whistle at the White Hart? With a vast array of burgers, hunter’s chicken, steaks, lasagne and more, The Swan Inn hotel is the perfect retreat to satisfy your appetite on a chilly winter’s day. 

For tasty Indian cuisine, whether it is a cosy takeaway or a delicious meal in the restaurant, look no further than Indian Villa. 

Places to stay in Thaxted

The Farmhouse Inn is a traditional country pub and hotel set on Monk Street. They offer ten attractive en suite rooms, all with complimentary WiFi and good facilities. There is also accommodation on the very pretty Stoney Lane available via trivago.co.uk. 

The Gate Cottage in Watling Street has been renovated into luxury accommodation consisting of a cosy lounge and kitchen on the top floor, with views of the beautiful Thaxted Church. The kitchen is stocked with a toaster, kettle and a microwave grill, perfect for preparing simple meals. On the ground floor is a plush bedroom, with a king-size poster bed and a shower room across the hall. 

Property for sale in Thaxted 

Want to make a permanent move? Here are our property picks... 

Yew Tree Cottage (Image: Mullocks)Yew Tree Cottage is an attractive detached three-bedroom Grade II listed home. There is an abundance of exposed beams, timbers and beautiful original fireplaces. The standout feature is the drawing room with its heavy beams and timbers.  

Guide price £925,000, with Mullucks. 

Casa Verde (Image: James & Co)Casa Verde in Copthall Lane is a five-bedroom detached property that was constructed in a Mediterranean-villa style 23 years ago. The master bedroom benefits from an en suite, while a further bedroom is accessed via a separate staircase. 

Guide price is £845,000, with James & Co. 

36 Park Street (Image: Arkwright & Co)You’ll find character aplenty at 36 Park Street, an attractive four-bedroom, semi-detached period property with a plethora of features, including inglenook fireplaces and exposed beams. Outside, there’s parking, a detached garage and an attractive enclosed garden. 

Guide price £550,000, with Arkwright & Co.