Attractions and Places To See around Barnston - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Barnston include historical sites and scenic routes. Located in a rural setting, the area offers opportunities for exploring former railway lines converted into trails. Visitors can discover local history and enjoy cafes popular with cyclists and walkers. The region provides a mix of cultural points of interest and places to relax.
Best attractions and places to see around Barnston
- The most popular attractions is Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre, a cycle way that serves as a stop on the Flitch Way cycle and hiking trail. This former train station houses a visitor centre, a cafe, and a railway carriage museum.
- Another must-see spot is The Snug at High Easter, a cafe. This friendly establishment offers a selection of food and drinks, and is known for welcoming cyclists.
- Visitors also love The Blue Egg Café, a cafe. It is a popular stop for cyclists, offering fresh, locally sourced food and natural energy bars.
- Barnston is known for historical sites, cafes, and sections of cycle and hiking trails. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from former railway halts to places of worship.
- The attractions around Barnston are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 17 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre
Highlight • Cycleway
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The Snug at High Easter
Highlight • Cafe
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St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End
Highlight • Religious Site
In 1850’s there was a move by the gentry to construct
Churches to provide a Christian faith for the less
fortunate.
On Friday 5th August 1859 the consecration of this neat
little structure, situated in the ancient forest of Hatfield,
and on what was formerly considered the most wild and
destitute part of the parish.
Two notable men lay at the heart of the Church. These
being:
John Archer Houblon
Rev. Thomas Francis Hall
The early years…….
The church was built in the Gothic style favoured
at that time
The foundation stone was laid on 8th July 1856
and can be seen on the outside of the south-east
end of the church, it reads:
“To the glory of the eternal Trinity. This dedication
stone of the church of St John the Evangelist was
laid July 8 1856 by Sarah daughter of the late
Stanes Chamberlyne Esq. formerly of the Ryes in
this parish”.
The connection with Hatfield Forest
The names of the Houblon family and the Rev T Hall occur many times in the history of the church.
The Houblon family owned Hallingbury Park that once stood adjacent to the forest. It was used as a hunting forest and they enjoyed country pursuits by the lake. Indeed the famous landscape gardener Capability
Brown redesigned the lake and surrounding parkland.
The stained glass windows of the apse of St Peter was presented by Georgina Anne Archer Houblon in 1857.
The centre window is that of the patronal dedication - St John the Evangelist. This was given in memory of Robert Impey first born child of Thomas Hall MA Vicar of the parish and Mary Phillippa his wife. The right hand window was presented by Joseph Clarke Esq. the
Diocesan architect in 1844.
There are also two in Hatfield Heath church in memory of Mr Hall’s infant daughter Mary jane who died from scarlet fever in 1844. Mr Hall himself died in 1858 one
year before the consecration of the two churches that
he brought into being. Indeed it was said that he died
in consequence from anxiety, of frequent disappointment and of over exertion in his endeavors
to get the churches built!
Mr Houblon indeed was to say at the consecration “….had he lived to see these churches consecrated he
was sure it would have been one of the happiest days of his life.”
The Parish of Bush End….
The power of faith….
In 1864 Bush End became a separate parish but was resided by the vicar of Hatfield Broad oak as was Hatfield Heath. In 1929 the living became vacant and since that date has been linked with that of Broad Oak. Indeed the name Broad Oak is linked to that of the famous Doodle Oak tree that stood in the Hatfield Forest parkland.
The church has an early english inscription of the ten commandments written in red and black. It is worthy of record that whereas the neighbourhood used formerly to be the most notorious for thieves, poachers and deer stealers, not one of the reverend’s gentlemen’s flock has been before the magistrate since the vicar was resident within them!
Dedication of organ as a war memorial at Bush End…..
Within the church there once was a church organ donated by the Rev. F W Galpin as a memorial to those who fell in the great war 1914-1919 within the parish.
The only evidence today is the brass plaque that would have been located on the organ.
It’s cost was £200 but sadly this memorial was either sold or donated to another church.
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Bannister Green Halt
Highlight • Monument
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The Blue Egg Café
Highlight • Cafe
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Tips from the Community
Watch out for pedestrians and dogs, great place to stop to refuel.
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Easy route, suitable for all bikes and ages. Can be bumpy in places.
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Brilliant cafe in High Easter - great place for a cafe stop on a ride through Essex. Well worth checking out
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Bannister Green Halt was sited on the up side of the line and consisted of a clinker platform with timber facing raised to rail level; it was attended by staff from Felsted or Rayne Stations. It was one of two halts built by the GER in 1922 to attract passengers to the railway and counteract the then recently introduced bus service. Passengers joining or alighting at the halt were required to use retractable steps mounted by the side of the coach and operated by the guard.
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Former halt on Flitch Way railway route. Great for a gravel bike ride!
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Great place for a break! Able to order outside (if the weather is nice) so don't need to worry about securing bike if a solo biker!
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Classic cafe stop in the area, always plenty of cyclists and places to put your bike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of attractions can I expect to find around Barnston?
Around Barnston, you'll discover a mix of historical sites, charming cafes, and sections of popular cycle and hiking trails. The area is known for its rural setting, offering opportunities to explore former railway lines converted into scenic routes.
What historical sites can I visit near Barnston?
You can explore several historical sites, including the former railway stations along the Flitch Way. Notable examples are Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre, which now houses a visitor centre, cafe, and railway carriage museum, and Bannister Green Halt, another former railway halt on the Flitch Way. Additionally, St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End, offers a glimpse into local religious history, dating back to 1859.
Are there good walking or cycling trails near Barnston?
Yes, the area is well-suited for walking and cycling, particularly along the Flitch Way, a converted railway line. This trail offers easy routes suitable for various activities. For more detailed routes, you can explore options like the "Flitch Way — East section – Bannister Green Halt loop" for cycling or several easy hikes around Flitch Green, such as the "Rumblebees Café – Plunge Pool in the Stream loop." You can find more routes in the Cycling around Barnston and Easy hikes around Barnston guides.
Where can I find places to eat or drink near Barnston?
Barnston and its surroundings offer several popular cafes, especially favored by cyclists and walkers. The Snug at High Easter is a friendly spot with a good selection of food and drinks. The Blue Egg Café is another institution, known for fresh, locally sourced food and natural energy bars. You can also find a cafe at Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre, perfect for a stop along the Flitch Way.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Barnston?
Absolutely. Many attractions cater to families. Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre is a great option, featuring a railway carriage museum that children enjoy exploring. The Flitch Way itself, which passes by Bannister Green Halt, offers easy and safe routes for family walks and bike rides.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Barnston?
Visitors frequently praise the welcoming atmosphere of the local cafes, many of which are known for being cyclist-friendly and offering fresh, local produce. The historical aspect of the former railway line, now the Flitch Way, is also highly appreciated, with places like Rayne Station offering a unique blend of history and recreation. The ease and accessibility of the trails for walking and cycling are also a big draw.
Are there any dog-friendly walking routes or attractions in the Barnston area?
The Flitch Way, being a former railway line, generally offers flat and open paths, making it suitable for dog walking. While specific dog-friendly amenities at attractions might vary, the outdoor trails are usually welcoming for pets on a leash. Always ensure to follow local guidelines regarding dogs on trails and in public spaces.
What is the best time of year to visit Barnston for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like walking and cycling around Barnston. However, the Flitch Way's relatively flat and well-maintained surface means it can be enjoyed year-round, though some sections might be muddy during wetter winter months. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any easy walks suitable for all abilities near Barnston?
Yes, the Flitch Way provides many easy walking opportunities. Its flat terrain, as a converted railway line, makes it accessible for various abilities. Several easy hikes around Flitch Green are available, such as the "Rumblebees Café – Flitch Way loop," which are generally short and manageable. You can find more details in the Easy hikes around Barnston guide.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Barnston?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities around Barnston. Routes like the "Great Dunmow trails loop" or the "Flitch Way road crossing – Flitch Way — East section loop" offer options for mountain bikers. These trails vary in difficulty from easy to moderate. For more information and specific routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Barnston guide.
Is there parking available near the main attractions in Barnston?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For instance, Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre typically has dedicated parking for visitors. For other trailheads or village attractions, street parking or small public car parks might be available. It's advisable to check specific location details if driving.
Most popular attractions around Barnston
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