The Festival of Essex Archaeology & Heritage is returning to Cressing Temple Barns following the success of the first event! This is a fantastic free and family-friendly festival for anyone with an interest in archaeology, history and the heritage of Essex – young and old.
Encounter some of the country’s leading experts and those involved in discovering, preserving and presenting the best of the county’s heritage. Meet experts and browse finds, enjoy children’s activities and re-enactments, talks, tours and so much more, including food stands.
The festival takes place at Cressing Temple Barns, home to the oldest known timber-framed barns in England. As well as the thirteenth-century barns, the site boasts several other post-medieval buildings, as well as a faithful recreation of the Tudor walled garden.
So much to do for all the family: Enjoy re-enactments, browse the exhibitors' stands, finds and activities. Watch the bird of prey displays and be tempted by the refreshments. There will also be a programme of lectures and activities taking place throughout the day - see below for more information!
Don't worry if the weather is looking changeable: Many of the exhibitors will be under cover in the historic wheat and barley barns so you can enjoy the event whatever the weather. Food stalls and sessions such as Eden Falconry will be outside. Bring your own picnic and a blanket or take advantage of the picnic benches scattered around the atmospheric site.
UPDATE 05/05/26
Over 40 organisations have confirmed their attendance at this year's event, including local museums, archaeological contractors, community heritage groups, and historical re-enactors. There will also be activities to enjoy throughout the day, including falconry displays and a British classic – the Punch & Judy show!
Alongside the exhibitions, many of the organisations involved in this year's events will be delivering talks in the two lecture rooms. There's something for everyone, whether you're interested in archaeological excavations that have taken place in Essex, taking a deep dive into the history of a particular town or event, or going behind the scenes with organisations working to raise awareness of our county's heritage. Free tickets are available to book on Eventbrite.
Read more about Cressing Temple Barns and plan your visit.
Location
Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Cressing, Braintree, Essex, CM77 8PD, United Kingdom
Additional location/direction information
Cressing Temple is situated on the B1018 between Braintree and Witham and can be accessed from either the A120 at Braintree or the A12 at Witham. Your sat nav may complete your journey early on the B1018 just south of the site – you will need to follow the brown signs for the barns and access the site from the entrance on Temple Lane. There will be plenty of free parking on site, including disabled bays.
There are two disabled toilets on site. There is step-free access to all areas of the site being used for the festival, and disabled toilets located in the Visitor Centre and Granary Barn.
Schedule
Thu, 23 Jul
10:00 AM
|
5:00 PM
Additional booking information
The event is FREE but requires booking.