The name derived from 12th century Thomas Becket pilgrimages to Canterbury through Brentwood, a popular stopping place at the time, before travelling onto Tilbury for the ferry.

[3] At this time Pilgrims Hatch was not recognised as a community as such, having only a few properties in an area which was mainly open countryside and not settled in any numbers until the 20th century.

Although some buildings from the site remained early into the 21st century it has now been transformed into housing developments and an extension to Bishops Hall Park.

There is an annual festival held at the centre, as well as a traditional fireworks display on or close to Guy Fawkes Night each year.

The area relies mainly on Brentwood's high street stores and supermarkets, but does have a number of local shops and businesses.