A riverside hamlet in the heart of Constable Country, where historic watermills, meadow paths, and connections to long-distance trails make it a favourite stop for walking holidays and outdoor adventures in the Dedham Vale National Landscape.
Flatford, on the River Stour, is famous as the setting for some of John Constable’s most celebrated paintings, including The Hay Wain. Much of the hamlet is now cared for by the National Trust, with preserved buildings such as Flatford Mill, Willy Lott’s House, and the Granary offering a glimpse into rural life in the early 19th century. The surrounding landscape has changed little since Constable’s day, making it a rewarding spot for self-guided walking and photography.
The Stour Valley Path passes directly through Flatford, linking it to Manningtree to the south and Dedham to the north. Short, easy riverside walks are perfect for a half-day visit, while longer routes explore the wider Dedham Vale, rich in meadows, hedgerows, and gently rolling farmland.