The Hundred Parishes

It contains over 6,000 listed buildings and many conservation areas,[1][2][3][4] village greens, ancient hedgerows, protected features and a historical pattern of small rural settlements in close proximity to one another.

The idea of recognising the area for its special heritage characteristics was originally conceived by local historian and author David Heathcote.

[8] The conference was attended by delegates from more than 30 authorities and organisations and The Hundred Parishes Society was established as a company limited by guarantee immediately afterwards.

In the west, the rivers Rib, Ash and Stort flow south from the Hundred Parishes to meet the Lea and then the Thames.

An ancient long-distance trackway, the Icknield Way, which may pre-date the Roman roads, passes from west to east through the northern part of the area.

Typical architectural features include timber-framed buildings, flint (especially for churches), thatched roofs, whitewashing and/or pargeting on external walls.

The Hundred Parishes has a strong cultural heritage from the 20th century when it was the home of, among others, Gustav Holst, H. G. Wells, Henry Moore and the Great Bardfield artists including Eric Ravilious and Edward Bawden.

The artists are particularly celebrated at the Fry Art Gallery in Saffron Walden and Thaxted hosts annual festivals of classical music and Morris dancing.