The Old Cartlodge

A little more information on Halstead

A picturesque village dating back to medieval times with narrow, winding streets and lots of timber framed cottages; many of which date back to the 15th century. The Norman castle, after which the village is named, is open to visitors and has within it a keep which is believed to be the best preserved in England. The castle holds regular events including jousting tournaments, archery contests, battle re-enactments and is a popular wedding venue. Every little boy wants to drive a steam train when he grows up, well now is your chance! With the Colne Valley Railway you can book a Driver Experience Course and experience what it is like for real. There is a fine choice of eating establishments in the village from a cream tea or light snack at the local tea shop up to a full meal at one of the village pubs or the restaurant. There is also a post office, an excellent children's playground and plenty of walks and pathways to explore by foot or cycle. Sudbury offers a weekly market, plenty of choice for shopping and supermarkets, Gainsborough’s house and a setting beside the River Stour. Braintree is a bustling market town just a short distance away where you can enjoy multiplex cinema and Freeport Designer Outlet. Dedham and Flatford in Constable Country and are well worth a visit, whilst Thaxted gives everyone the chance to slow down and enjoy this beautiful countryside before you get ready for the excitement of horse racing at Newmarket! Colchester, the oldest city in England, is less than 30 minutes away where you can visit the zoo, Colchester Castle or sample the oysters. Cambridge, with its river and academic links, and Lavenham, home to the Guildhall and excellent restaurants, are easily reached, as is London, with the Olympic site at Stratford around an hour away by train, and central London only an hour and fifteen minutes by train from the station at Witham.