Manningtree is a small port on the Stour Estuary with attractive Georgian buildings, it is England's smallest town and it feels more like a village. The High Street is about ¾ mile from the station.
There are great easy, level, walks through the beautiful countryside of Dedham Vale which inspired many of John Constable's iconic paintings, the map at the bottom of this page shows paths to the peaceful hamlet of Flatford and the picturesque village of Dedham, the highlighted circular route is about 7 miles and has several gates but no stiles. Take care walking on the minor roads where there are no paths.
Manningtree to Harwich Town is the Mayflower Line.
A small museum covering Manningtree and the surrounding villages. Admission free.
Open Wed & Sat 1000-1200, Fri 1400-1600.
www.manningtree-museum.org.uk
The Museum is 1 mile from Mistley station.
Two imposing porticoed Classical towers which stood at each end of an unusual Georgian church
(now demolished) designed by Robert Adam in 1776.
Open The towers can be clearly seen from the road, see the website for arrangements if you wish to enter the grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Mistley Towers are ¼ mile from Mistley station.
Bridge Cottage is in the quiet hamlet of Flatford by the River Stour. The area was the inspiration
for many of John Constable's paintings and Bridge Cottage contains an exhibition about Constable and
his work. Gallery with exhibitions by contemporary artists. Riverside Tearoom.
Open Apr-Oct, Daily 1000-1600. Nov-Mar, SSu (and some WThF) 1000-1500.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford
Note: there is no public access to the inside of Flatford Mill and Willy Lott's Cottage which are nearby.
Castle House was the home of the artist Sir Alfred Munnings from 1919 until his death in 1959
and it contains the original furniture. Galleries display a representative collection of his work.
Gardens. Café. Exhibitions programme.
Open Apr-Oct, WThFSSu & BH 1330-1630.
www.siralfredmunnings.co.uk
