The parish also includes the hamlets of Lower Raydon (west) and The Woodlands (east).

It was recorded in Domesday as "Reindune" or "Reinduna" and appears on John Speed's 1610 map as "Roydon".

Raydon is based along part of the B1070 named The Street (runs north–south) and St Mary's church is close to the T junction with Woodlands Road in the north of the village.

The south and west of the parish, including Lower Raydon, is part of the Dedham Vale AONB.

During World War II an airfield was built in this area, which was initially known as United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) Station 157, later becoming RAF Raydon.