A historic village on the River Stour, surrounded by meadows, mills, and timeless footpaths.
Dedham is one of the most beautiful walking villages in the East of England. Tucked into the Dedham Vale AONB, its flint cottages, old coaching inns, and 15th-century church are framed by open countryside and slow-flowing water. This is the centre of Constable Country — where the painter sketched skies and river scenes that remain unchanged today.
From the village, footpaths follow the River Stour to Flatford, East Bergholt, and Manningtree, or lead out into farmland toward Langham and Stratford St Mary. Trails are generally flat, easy, and perfect for self-guided circular walks or multi-day journeys along the Stour Valley Path.
Dedham also makes a great base, with pubs, cafés, galleries, and plenty of local flavour. It’s the kind of place that rewards lingering — especially for walkers who like a bit of culture with their countryside.
Village inns, riverside B&Bs, and cosy cottages in the Vale.
Walks starting from or passing through Dedham.
