Places to see and visit
in Dedham & Flatford
As we go back to visit these places in our own travels we will expand what to look out for and enjoy. If you get there before us why not contact us and tell us your experiences.
Dedham
An historic, picturesque village on the River Stour – further up river from Manningtree, easily reachable with a short drive or a lovely countryside walk from Manningtree along the river, just beyond Flatford.
There are lots to see with the old houses in the high street, the church of St Mary’s , walks by the river, a weir and boat hire. There are many interesting small shops including a deli, book shop, art gallery with art supplies, chocolate shop, and gift shop. Ample parking is available.
Craft Centre contains The Cotswold Co. selling furniture and items for the home as well as other stores catering for painters, crafts etc.
Munning’s house art museum and gardens: Contains the works of the local painter Sir Alfred Munnings.
Flatford
Flatford is a small hamlet just south of the village of East Bergholt, situated in the Vale of Dedham. This was the area where the painter John Constable grew up and a place to which he returned to paint throughout his life. Bridge Cottage is a beautiful, old thatched cottage by the river that contains an exhibition of some of his paintings.
Down by this section of the River Stour there can also be found Flatford Mill and Willy Lotts cottage. Only open to the public by arrangement. They are both leased to The Field Studies Counci. It is from here that they run art-based courses.
Easy to reach from East Bergholt, Flatford has ample parking and other attractions include boats for hire, a tea room, a National Trust shop, and lovely walks along both directions of the River Stour, towards Manningtree or Dedham.
