Although formerly the site of a Roman encampment, Coggeshall's history of any note began in 1140 with the foundation by King Stephen of a large Cistercian abbey. The monks were extensively sheep farmers and this promoted the wool and cloth trade from the 15th to the mid-18th century on which Coggeshall's prosperity was based. During this time the village rose to prominence and was one of the most industrialised places in Essex, famed on the Continent for a type of cloth called Coggeshall Whites.

Paycocke House

This prosperity has left a rich legacy of timber-framed houses and Coggeshall has almost 300 "listed" buildings. Probably the finest bequest from the wool years is the large 15th century cathedral-style church of St.Peter-ad-Vincula built with wool merchant's money, most notably the Paycocke family whose own fine 16th Century house is a prominent landmark in the village. Following the demise of the wool trade the first half of the 19th century was given over to the manufacture of silk and the production of the famous Coggeshall tambour lace, and during this period well over half the population was engaged in these flourishing cottage industries.

The remains of the abbey, the still intact abbey gatehouse chapel and the large 12th century Grange barn all add to the charm of the place and there is much to see on a visit to this historic village. About a mile outside of Coggeshall is Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum' which was the home for more than 300 years to the Honywood family who were responsible for the planting of the famous Honywood oaks, one of which still remains today. Mary Honywood is commemorated in the church in Coggeshall as having no less than 365 descendants at the time of her death!

Grange Barn