Featured Businesses
Every town and village in North Essex has its own character - and so do the businesses that make them worth visiting. From independent cafés and antique shops to cosy pubs and hidden-away studios, these are the places we think deserve a closer look.
Each featured business has been selected because it adds something genuine to the experience of visiting North Essex. Whether you're planning a day out in Saffron Walden, browsing for something unusual in Thaxted, or looking for a great place to eat after a countryside walk - start here.
Want your business featured on Discover North Essex? Get in touch to find out more.
The Goat & Grass - Saffron Walden
Hidden down one of Saffron Waldens Side streets you'll find excellent food, service & a warm bustling vibe. Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options. Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Drinks Table Service, Takeout
8 Cross St, Saffron Walden CB10 1EX
The House by Hilly Gant - Braintree
We invite you to join us and taste the difference that comes with AA Rosette dining a new standard in Fine Dining Restaurants in Essex.
Nestled in the heart of the countryside, The House by Hilly Gant has earned its reputation as one of the best restaurants in Essex.
34 New Street. Braintree CM7 1ES
The Star Inn - Great Dunmow
Since the 16th century, The Starr has been part of the fabric of Great Dunmow. Today, this beautifully restored historic inn begins a new chapter, combining its rich heritage with contemporary British dining, carefully crafted drinks and warm, welcoming hospitality in the heart of Essex.
Market Place, Great Dunmow, CM6 1AX
The Fox - Finchingfield
We warmly welcome you to our beautiful 16th Century Coaching Inn in the heart of Finchingfield, overlooking the village green and duck pond.
We are open for full table service on our front terrace and inside our restaurant (advise booking) or for casual drinks and Fox in a Box dining in our rear garden. - Finchingfield
The Bell Inn - Great Bardfield
Home of the Bardfield artists.
Beautiful Elizabethan inn located in the heart of Great Bardfield. Pub with beer garden, Bed & Breakfast and restaurant. - Great Bardfield
The Bell Inn - Castle Hedingham
The Bell Inn, built around 1430, has been a principal inn in Castle Hedingham since at least 1592 when it was listed on Israel Amyce’s map of the village.
All customers are welcome to pay a visit to the Long Room at the Inn - an historic first floor assembly room, built in the 1780s and now home to a unique pub museum. Currently a work in progress, we plan to expand considerably with further exhibits to be added periodically.
The Cross Keys - Saffron Walden
In the heart of Saffron Walden, The Cross Keys brings together boutique hotel rooms, exceptional dining, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Housed in a stunning Elizabethan building, our inn combines centuries of history with modern comfort – the perfect place to eat, drink, stay, and celebrate in Essex.
Wildflower Meadow - Finchingfield
Our two glorious 6m Lotus Belle are a mix between the traditional bell tent and a Mongolian yurt, providing much more headroom than a bell tent allowing you to stand up fully inside.
Each Belle tent is pitched on decking with a 2m veranda overlooking stunning views of the lavender field and wild flower meadow.
The White Heart - Great Yeldham
A charming 15th-century coaching inn and award-winning restaurant located on Poole Street in Great Yeldham, Essex.Rooms: 13 five-star rated luxury rooms in a quiet separate block, sleeping up to 31 guests.
Arts Décoratifs - Antiques - Saffron Walden
Arts Décoratifs is Ann Miller’s stylish treasure-trove or Aladdins cave just off Market Hill in Saffron Walden, specialising in 19th and 20th century decorative arts - especially beautiful vintage jewellery. Expect superb quality, eclectic finds and unique gifts, loved by collectors and stylists (with pieces featured on The Crown). Pop in and see why Ann has visitors from the USA, Australia & Canada & see what you discover.
Arts Décoratifs, The Cockpit (off Market Hill), Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1HQ
Tel: 01799 513666 | Mobile: 0777 400 3851
Open: Tue/Thu/Fri/Sat 10am–3pm (and by appointment)
Petersfield Antiques - Gosfield
Petersfield Village began life as a working farm, transformed into the shopping village you see today in 2005 (officially opened by antiques expert Tim Wonnacott). Many of the original farm buildings remain at its heart — including the former Shire horse stables, now home to the café.
After a period of change and decline, Huskop Commercial Management took over in February 2022 and has been investing in restoring the village as a welcoming destination for families. Today, visitors can enjoy “Fox in the Stables” Tea Rooms (with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free treats), a family-friendly garden area, and a growing mix of shops and antiques.
In November 2022, the village expanded again with the launch of The Emporium — a brand-new space featuring additional cabinets, a new shop, and dedicated areas for furniture, mirrors and eclectic finds.
Halstead Antiques - Halstead
Over 100 dealers offering a wide range of Antique, Retro and Vintage items.