Brumsted Common

Downs, Moorland in Essex Uttlesford

England

Brumsted Common

Road junction between Brickkiln Spring and Canfield Hart These are each the names of woods nearby. The B183 runs across ahead in the shot. — Road junction between Brickkiln Spring and Canfield Hart Credit: Trevor Harris

Brumsted Common is a picturesque area located in Essex, England. Situated on the edge of the county, it encompasses a diverse landscape of downs and moorland. Spanning approximately 500 acres, it offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The common is characterized by its rolling hills, vast open spaces, and stunning panoramic views. Its rich and varied flora and fauna make it an important ecological site, attracting a range of bird species, including skylarks and lapwings. The moorland areas are home to several species of wildflowers, adding bursts of color during spring and summer.

Brumsted Common is also known for its network of footpaths and bridleways, making it a popular destination for walkers, hikers, and horse riders. The well-maintained trails allow visitors to explore the area's natural beauty, providing access to hidden valleys, ancient woodlands, and charming villages.

The common's historical significance is evident in the presence of archaeological remains, such as Bronze Age barrows and Iron Age hill forts. These remnants offer a glimpse into the area's past, providing an intriguing backdrop for history enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Brumsted Common offers various recreational facilities for visitors. These include picnic areas, play areas for children, and designated spots for camping and barbecues.

Overall, Brumsted Common in Essex is a stunning and diverse landscape, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature, explore its historical heritage, or simply enjoy outdoor activities.

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Brumsted Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.842864/0.25605535 or Grid Reference TL5518. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Road junction between Brickkiln Spring and Canfield Hart

These are each the names of woods nearby. The B183 runs across ahead in the shot.

Trevor Harris

Lane to Great Canfield

Trevor Harris

Junction and Sign

The meeting of Hatfield Forest Road/ Wood Row/ Greenhill.

David Bremner

Cannons Lane, Hatfield Broad Oak

The Broad Street Green part of the village.

Robin Webster

Shed with trailers

One of the farm buildings at Crabbs Green Farm.

Trevor Harris

Field and farm track at Crabbs Green Farm

The field has been freshly ploughed and a harrow is working nearby.

Trevor Harris

Field north of Crabbs Green Farm

Taken from Crabbs Green Lane looking west. The tractor track dead ahead shows the line of the public footpath crossing this field.

Trevor Harris

Road junction at Taverners Green

With the lane called Crabbs Green on the left ahead.

Trevor Harris

On the lane to Broomshawbury

Looking north here with the fingerpost for Boxley Lane just visible in the centre ahead.

Trevor Harris

Footpath through The Marsh

This area north of Hatfield Broad Oak, formerly apparently common grazing, is a good wildlife habitat. Though there are some areas of standing water (one can be seen to the right here), most of the marshy area was dry today - as was Pincey Brook, whose course the path runs beside.

Trevor Harris

Pillars of an ecclesiastical dispute

Or maybe not. This is the east end of St Mary the Virgin. The pillars here are the remaining two of four pillars which supported the central tower of the Benedictine Priory church - which until the Dissolution was twice as long as the present church. So much is not in dispute; however notes in the church say the church was divided by this east wall following violent disputes between the parish and its priest, and the monks - who the parishioners accused of not maintaining the then-shared. This was supposedly carried out on the orders of the king as a solution to the dispute. I can't find any reference to these events on-line, in Victoria County History etc although other disputes are recorded concerning the priory. I suspect that maybe the east wall was constructed in 1536 when the priory was dissolved in order to reduce the church to more manageable proportions - though I stand to be corrected.

Trevor Harris

Straight road near Forest Farm

This very straight section is about a kilometre in length and may mark the route of a Roman road heading for Takeley Street (several other straight sections occur between here and Takeley Street). "Street" in a place name often denotes a settlement on a Roman road and indeed Takeley Street is on Stane Street running east to west. I think it's not too fanciful to see this as a Roman route to Stane Street.

Trevor Harris

Finger post at junction near Bridgefoot Farm

Directions shown are left to Takeley and Hatfield Forest, right to Hatfield Broad Oak, and towards the photographer, to Woodside Green and Hallingbury. For a close-up see photo from contributor David Bremner TL5418 : Junction and Sign

Trevor Harris