It is near to the South bank of the River Rib which flows in the valley below towards Wadesmill.

Nearby villages include Wareside, Thundridge and Barwick.

Actor Nigel Hawthorne lived in Cold Christmas with his partner, Trevor Bentham.

Hawthorne died at his home on 26 December 2001 and his funeral took place in nearby Thundridge.

Chris Lowe of the pop duo Pet Shop Boys once lived in the Fabdens residence.