Galleywood, just outside Chelmsford, has been described by Visit Essex as a “lovely village” surrounded by “masses of stunning countryside”.
It is located around a 30-minute drive up the A12 from Romford.
As well as one of Chelmsford’s main parks, Chelmer Park, Galleywood is also home to its own vineyard, which covers 20 acres of land and offers tours and afternoon teas.
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Galleywood Common is “perfect for anyone who loves a scenic walk through open fields and woodland”, according to Visit Essex.
The organisation said there are many “beautiful” walks through the countryside with dedicated routes and public footpaths.
Along your walk, you might discover some of the history of the area, including that of the historic racecourse at the Common between 1759 and 1935.
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It was one of the oldest racecourses in England and St Michael & All Angels Church is built in the middle of it – believed to be the only church in the country to be built in the middle of a racecourse.
According to Galleywood Parish Council, the phrase Steeple Chase may have come from the Galleywood racecourse.
Many traditional rural Essex cottages and farmhouses are dotted around the village, as well as pubs and even a telephone kiosk that is now used as a book swap facility.
