One Essex village which has inspired artists and been the birthplace for a long list of notable historic figures, remains beautifully tucked away near Colchester. The town of Dedham, which is part of the city of Colchester, remains almost completely unchanged in 100 years, as it keeps its pretty features that made it onto canvas.
Dedham and the surrounding Dedham Vale is iconic as a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. The immediately recognisable village was thought to be so exquisite, that it had to be captured in paint, most famously by John Constable. Preserved for art lovers, The Hay Wain, The Cornfield, and The Leaping Horse depict pretty areas of the landscape which trace along the Stour River and surrounding Valley.
Art lovers are not the only group who enjoy the peaceful town and countryside. Hikers enjoy following peaceful walks which lead out into the pastoral landscape. Known for being ideal for picnics and boating activities, the town is a hotspot for those wanting to just escape the swirl of city life.
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The town itself is known for quaint independent shops, as well as cosy tearooms, which are dotted around every corner. Home to some notable figures, including one of America’s founding Fathers, Roger Sherman and prolific turn of the century director, William Hagger, Dedham is certainly a place full of history and beauty.