Braintree

Braintree is a market town in the county of Essex on the River Blackwater. The town's prosperity is based on the woollen industry and it is noted that Flemish immigrants brought their skills here in the 16^th century. In 1665 the town was devastated by the Great Plague that killed 865 of the population of just 2,300 people. The wool trade was later replaced in the early 1800’s by the silk trade and Braintree became a centre for silk manufacturing when George Courtauld opened a silk mill in the town. The influence of the Courtauld family is still in evidence as they were behind many of the town's public buildings, including the town hall and public gardens that were established in 1888. The museum here tells the story of Braintree and is well worth a visit.

Braintree benefits from being a mainly pedestrianised town with plenty for the visitor to enjoy, including; a shopping outlet village at Freeport, Great Notley Country Park & Discovery Centre, The Original Great Maze at Blake Hall Craft Centre, Braintree District Museum and Cressing Temple Barns. Friendly pubs, restaurants, bars and excellent shopping can also be found here in Braintree.