Tucked away in the heart of the Essex countryside, Cressing Temple Barns is a hidden gem steeped in history, and at the center of it all sits our welcoming Barns Tea Room, the perfect place to start or end your visit.
Whether you're stopping by for a slice of homemade cake, a hearty lunch, or just a proper cup of tea, our tea room offers a cosy spot to relax and refuel.
After you’ve enjoyed your refreshments, take time to explore the awe-inspiring medieval barns, including the magnificent Barley Barn, one of the oldest timber-framed buildings of its kind in the world. The site is full of fascinating history and character, perfect for a gentle wander.
There has been mention of many ‘ghostly encounters’ in and around Cressing Temple in the last few decades. One of the most recent is believed to be ‘a phantom knight’, local legend says that he is buried somewhere on the Cressing Temple estate. In 2009, there was an eerie photograph taken by a fisherman in the middle of the night at a lake near Cressing Temple: the lakeside ghostly mist looks spookily like the apparition of a ghostly knight on horseback.
Another fascinating tale which is believed to be true is during World War II is that of Winston Churchill hiding one of his cars in the huge barns – now why on earth would he do that? You can learn more about the tea room and Cressing Temple itself on site and perhaps come along and join in at some of the huge variety of events taking place there, including vintage fairs and classic car shows. In 2013, Cressing Temple barns was the location for an episode of BBC’s Antiques Road Show.
Do not miss the Walled Garden, a beautifully restored and peaceful space showcasing traditional planting styles, herbs and flowers. It is a tranquil haven that offers something new to see in every season.
So whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, make a day of it at Cressing Temple. Start with something delicious at the Barns Tea Room, then take a stroll through centuries of history and horticultural beauty.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Latest at the Cressing Tea Room
Apple Day at Cressing Temple Barns
Autumn is the season of crisp mornings, golden leaves and, of course, apples. One of the highlights of the local calendar is Apple Day at Cressing Temple Barns, a wonderful celebration of this much loved fruit set within the grounds of one of Essex’s most historic sites.
Start Your Day at The Barns Tea Room, Cressing Temple
There’s something special about enjoying breakfast in a setting as beautiful as Cressing Temple Barns. At our Barns Tea Room, you can start your morning surrounded by centuries of history, rustic charm, and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea and coffee.
Visit the Barns Tea Room at Cressing Temple – History, Gardens & a Proper Cup of Tea
Tucked away in the heart of the Essex countryside, Cressing Temple Barns is a hidden gem steeped in history, and at the center of it all sits our welcoming Barns Tea Room, the perfect place to start or end your visit.