A country drive around our beautiful county can reveal plenty of stunning villages, perhaps none more striking than Arkesden. Near Saffron Walden, the spot boasts around 370 residents and dates back to at least 1086. Featured then in the Domesday Book as Archesdana, it has become a thoroughly peaceful haven, packed with bucolic walks and a community feel that residents love.
The village has a village hall, on the church green, and one pub, the Axe and Compasses The 13th-century parish church is dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, heavily restored in 1855. Arkesden Parish Council says that it stands on the foundations of a Norman predecessor and "still houses elaborate 17th century marble sculptured monuments and an impressive Elizabethan memorial to the Cutte family". Read more: Jamie Oliver says he wants his kids to 'struggle' as he opens up on his own challenges Read more: Incredible photos show D-Day planes flying above Essex after commemorative event Many of the properties in Arkesden in 2024 date back to the 17th century, with more than 30 Grade II-listed buildings, many thatched.
The council says that Wicken Water meanders between weeping willows along the length of the village, passing the award-winning Axe and Compasses pub making its way to the River Cam. It notes: "There are many lovely footpath walks around the proximity of the village and in spring you can see aconites, snowdrops, hellebores, periwinkle, violets, bluebells and hosts of golden daffodils – making it .
