When in Essex, search for treasures and antiques

Although it has its own train station, Battlesbridge is a little known, little visited Essex village, not far from the larger towns of Wickford and Rayleigh. The village sits on the River Crouch, making for some beautiful views and fascinating structures. I only live a short drive away, and had no idea that it was home to one of Essex’s largest antiques centres. So, when in the county, and at a loss for things to do, a visit here might make your day.

The largest draw to this part of Essex is its enormous antiques centre. There are four major areas of antique stores, and a number of dealers positioned all over the village, selling some great deals, and fascinating finds. One of these areas is the Old Granary, essentially a warehouse of treasure within an old mill. It’s easy to get lost inside the labyrinth, and you might find yourself like Aladdin, mesmerised by a shiny object. On our last visit, I had to chase a very inquisitive one year old as she tried to scale the stairs herself, and as she tried to take home all the toys for sale on the third floor.

In the attic of the mill, there is a cute little tea room which offers stunning views across the River Crouch and surrounding fields. Perhaps start your visit there, sipping on a tea and snack for sustenance, after all, you might easily lose track of time.

A short walk west along the main road from the Old Granary (and its car park) you’ll find Muggeridge Farm and Cromwell House, another set of buildings full of antiques. If you look hard enough, you’ll find the Motorcycle Museum, which is stuffed with an enthusiast’s dream! The treasures you find in these areas are a little different from in the Old Granary – there you’ll likely stumble across some furniture, records, and clothing.

Related: Three South Essex Coast walks along the Thames Estuary

Then a little further along, you’ll find Bones Lane. This little parade of shops is particularly scenic and stuffed with all sorts. There is a doll and teddy hospital, where you could take your childhood pals to be repaired; there’s a room full to the brim of old books, and the smell in inescapable. In one corner, there is a dugout of militaria, including quite a substantial collection of Nazi kit – cool to look at, but not something I want in my house, thank you.

Then there are the craft stores, like Vintage Rose Canalware, selling hand painted enamelware, and a small nook specialising in pagan, wiccan, and witchcraft gifts. Bones Lane is definitely the place to find cute, shabby chic pieces for your home.

Related: My favourite free things to do in Essex

Once shopping, or at the very least exploring, has left you famished, there are a few cafes and two pubs in Battlesbridge. I prefer The Hawk Inn for its decor, ambiance, and quality of food. It’s also dog-friendly, which is a huge tick in my book.

On a recent visit to The Hawk Inn with Dan and Ted, we were seated in a quiet corner of the bar area. A friendly member of staff brought over menus, gave Ted a scratch behind the ears, and took our drinks order. We decided to treat ourselves, and opted for a starter, main, and dessert, which was both delicious and arrived quickly. My favourite dish there is the Asian-style crispy duck salad – tasty, and filling! Just to top off the experience, The Hawk Inn also serves cocktails, and who would I be if I turned down a passionfruit martini?

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