Explore two magnificent Grade I listed medieval barns from the 13th century, part of a fascinating Knights Templar estate with beautiful gardens and free admission.

Cressing Temple Barns is a historic site of significant medieval importance located between Witham and Braintree in Essex. The venue preserves two extraordinary Grade I listed timber-framed barns dating back to the 13th century, including what is claimed to be the oldest standing timber-framed barn in the world. Originally built as part of one of the Knights Templar's earliest and largest English possessions, granted to the order in 1136, the barns showcase remarkable architectural heritage and craftsmanship from the medieval period. The site offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into medieval history, with the barns standing as testament to the agricultural enterprise that once operated here on over 1,400 acres. The estate supported extensive farming operations and was a key holding for the Knights Templar before being passed to the Knights Hospitaller in 1309. Today, the venue features a beautiful walled garden and is run by dedicated volunteers and the local authority. Cressing Temple Barns welcomes families and history enthusiasts with free entry and is fully pushchair friendly, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. The on-site Tiptree Barns Tearoom provides refreshments, and the venue hosts seasonal events and fairs. Booking is recommended for visits, and the site's combination of indoor and outdoor spaces ensures an enjoyable experience regardless of weather.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

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Malcolm Weeks

2 months ago

A great place to visit and on non event days it's completely free including parking. The walled garden is very pretty and informative as most plants have an information plaque. The barns are impressive in size and condition. There is a Tiptree tearoom on site providing hot and cold food.

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Peter Cowling

2 months ago

I have been coming here on and off over the years and l have always found this place interesting to wander around. The tudor walled garden is very impressive with its knot garden and beautiful plants. On site you will find a good cafe, with a good selection of cakes, lunches etc. I would recomend comibg here.

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E

4 months ago

The food was great but I do wish I had the plowman's instead of the quiche. Obviously food and drink is not the only thing anyone is going for but It was the highlight.

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Mark Poley

5 months ago

Interesting historic barns and a formal garden to explore. Free to enter but do leave a donation if you can. Lots of interesting details with information boards covering the history and plants. There's a good cafe for coffee cake and more substantial lunch snacks and afternoon teas. Do book in for lunch as it is very popular.

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Rachel Ambrose

5 months ago

It felt closed, the stalls were all empty and there was nothing for kids to do considering it's half term. The exhibits were very dated and some just missing. The tudor garden was stunning and thw only reason I have given 3 not 1 star. The garden is pristine with lots of traditional plants. But my child was thoroughly bored by the empty barns and lack of people and frankly didn't care about plants. We won't be going back.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026