The hidden and picturesque Hertfordshire village, Braughing

Braughing in Hertfordshire is often described as a charming hidden village <i>(Image: Google Maps)</i>
Braughing in Hertfordshire is often described as a charming hidden village (Image: Google Maps)
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A hidden village in Hertfordshire has been described as "picturesque" and offering a "quaint charm".

Braughing is a civil parish between Quin and Rib in East Hertfordshire and takes country life to a new level with its splendid countryside views.

Under a 50-minute drive from Watford via the A414 and A10, it is near the likes of Stevenage, Bishop’s Stortford and Ware and not too far from London Stansted Airport. Braughing is best known for its rich history, with roots tracing back to ancient times.

Hertfordshire’s picturesque hidden village

The name Braughing was first recorded in Anglo-Saxon times under the Old English spelling of Breahinga, according to Braughing.org.

Adding to the village’s historic charm is St Mary the Virgin Church and the annual celebration of Old Man’s Day.

On October 2, the village marks Old Man’s Day in honour of Matthew Wall, a local farmer who was believed to have died.

However, as the coffin carrying Wall was taken along Fleece Lane, the pallbearers slipped on leaves and dropped the coffin, waking the young man.

Confused as to where he was, Wall began hitting the coffin, leaving everyone in shock that he was alive the whole time.

Wall went on to live for another 20 years and, in his will, he left financial provision for Fleece Lane to be swept each year, a tradition that is carried on today.

Away from Braughing’s interesting past, the village has several amenities, including The Golden Fleece Pub.

The Golden Fleece has a Tripadvisor rating of 4.2 out of 5 from more than 300 reviews.


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One recent guest shared: “Amazing Sunday lunch coupled with friendly professional service in a beautiful setting.

“I recommend the Golden Fleece to anyone wanting to feel relaxed and looked after.”

Have you ever visited Braughing? Let us know in the comments.

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