Writtle – the Essex village only 40 minutes from Romford

Writtle is a village and civil parish one mile west of Chelmsford and only a 41-minute drive from Romford town centre according to Google Maps.

Essex-based estate agents Beresfords describes Writtle as a “quaint” and “picturesque” village.

“Don’t let the small size fool you, though – Writtle has plenty of amenities, including a doctor’s surgery, dentist, small supermarkets, a post office, and a selection of quaint village pubs and restaurants,” it says.

The Wheatsheaf (Image: Google) The highest rated of Writtle’s pubs according to Google is the Wheatsheaf – which was recently named as one of the top 500 pubs in the country by The Telegraph.

With a 4.7 Google rating, the watering hole has been situated in the heart of the village for more than 125 years according to its website.

The pub claims it offers a “wide selection of real ales, craft beers and an inviting atmosphere”.

Also situated around the village are The Rose and Crown and The Chequers, both with a 4.5 Google rating, and The Horse and Groom with a 4.3 Google rating.

Writtle duck pond (Image: Google) Writtle also offers a choice of more formal dining options such as Olio on the Green – an Italian restaurant with an average Google score of 4.8.

Its website says: “Our passion is to ensure our customers enjoy the real taste of Italian food.”

Pakwaan Indian Punjabi Cuisine in Bridge Street and The Potting Shed Tea Room in Ongar Road are also options for food and drink.

READ MORE: The Essex village with ‘gorgeous’ gastro pubs, ‘beautiful’ countryside and a windmill

Writtle Jazz Festival on Sunday, July 27 (Image: Writtle Jazz Festival) One of Writtle’s main attractions though is the Writtle Festival – a summer event which took a break last year but recently returned for 2025 on July 25, 26 and 27.

The festival took place at Old Chelmsfordians Sports Club in Roxwell Road and had performances from bands and soloists across three stages.

Saturday, July 26 saw band Funk 2K play and Sunday, July 27 saw a jazz focussed day welcome 12 bands to the stages.

For those preferring a quieter visit, Writtle is complete with a duck pond and surrounded by “captivating character properties”, according to Beresfords.

All Saints Church (Image: Google) The estate agents say that besides being a peaceful spot for relaxation, it is also the main place for regular social gatherings.

Stepping just beyond the green, you’ll stumble upon the “picturesque” All Saints Church.

Area researchers, Area Hive, said: “If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, Writtle won’t disappoint.

“The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering plenty of walking trails and parks.

Hylands Park (Image: Google) “Hylands Park is a local favourite, perfect for a family day out or a leisurely stroll.

“The nearby East View also provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.”

According to Rightmove, house prices in Writtle have an overall average of £480,759 over the last year.

The majority of properties sold in Writtle during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £473,939.

Detached properties sold for an average of £669,000 and terraced properties fetched £376,000.