SPOTLIGHT
SAFFRON WALDEN Promising charming timbered houses, afternoon tea and treasures, this north Essex market town is straight out of a storybook – and perfect for a day trip or weekend stay. Phoebe Harper takes a tour Falling for
F ormerly known as just ‘Walden’, did you know that Saffron Walden takes its name from the breed of crocus that flourished in these environs at the height of the saffron trade in the 16th century? Like its eye-catching titular flower, today Saffron Walden enjoys a blossoming reputation as a haven for day trips and short stays. Picturesque and postcard-perfect, Saffron Walden was voted by The Sunday Times as the best place to live in the UK in 2025. But if your plans to visit are slightly less permanent, just a short walk around town will unveil a host of delights that leave you wanting to come back for more. With summer warming up, Saffron Walden hosts its hotly anticipated 8 Day Weekend event this month. From 4 to 12 July, the town will be transformed by a colourful extravaganza of music, sports and other family-friendly entertainment based around the Common – including a carnival procession that’s been a feature of the town’s calendar since the 50s. There’s no better time to see Saffron Walden truly come to life! A wander through Walden Begin at the town’s beating heart – the Market Place. A market has been held here ever since the 12th century, and to this day the square comes alive every Tuesday and Saturday, with traders selling everything from flowers to focaccia, local cheeses to vintage finds. With the handsome Town Hall presiding over the cobbled square and independent cafes spilling onto the pavements, it’s the ideal spot to grab a flat white and soak up the scenery. Just steps away, the Rows – Saffron Walden’s medieval shopping lanes – are perfect for a mooch. Here, quaint, timber- framed buildings house quirky stores like painting and craft activity shop The Crafty
The Cricketers Clavering Quaint countryside bolthole with great food, only a 15-minute drive away. thecricketers.co.uk The Cross Keys High Street, Saffron Walden A historic stay in an atmospheric Elizabethan building. theoldcrosskeys.co.uk The Red Lion Hinxton Traditional 16th-century inn located just ten minutes from Saffron Walden. redlionhinxton.co.uk SPEND THE NIGHT Fancy making a weekend of it? Choose between one of these accommodation suggestions… Beanie and independent boutiques such as Neon Leo – a women’s retail space specialising in pre-loved clothing and fashion rentals. The Saffron Walden branch of Cambridge favourite Modish is close by too, for fabulous footwear. Plus, look out for handmade jewellery, locally made candles and one-off finds that you’ll brag about for months. If you’re feeling peckish or prepping for a picnic, be sure to stop by and grab a bite from independent deli and grocery store, Sage & Saffron. With a bounty of quality local produce at your fingertips, the Common is the ideal spot to park your picnic blanket. In this vast, green open space just minutes from the centre, children play, dog walkers
34 JULY 2025 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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