Things to do in Thaxted

Activities, attractions and tours

Lovely walk on local public pathway with fantastic views of Windmill known variously as John Webb's Mill or Lowe's Mill. Thaxted Windmill is a grade II listed tower mill on the edge of the historic hilltop town of Thaxted, about 6 miles south east of Saffron Walden. The mill stands 48 feet high, and is made of red brick, with four wooden sails. The mill was erected in 1804 on land owned by John Webb, a successful businessman who owned a number of properties locally, including a brick and tile work, and the local Swan Inn. There were 4 other mills in Thaxted at the time, but these were traditional post mills, whereas Webb's Mill was built to a tower design (a post mill rotates the entire body of the structure around a central column, while a tower mill rotates a moveable cap to which the sails are attatched). The family of millers who worked the mill were the Lowe family, and so the building is sometimes referred to as Lowe's Mill. Interestingly, one of the recent leaders of the John Webb’s Windmill Trust that runs the mill is a direct descendent of the Lowe family. The building material was local brick, fired just half a mile away, and there were 3 sets of millstones. The mill was in operation for just over a century, but by 1907 it was uneconomic to keep open. The advent of efficient steam engines made wind power less appealling and more costly. #red #windmill #sunset #uk #britain #england
Lovely walk on local public pathway with fantastic views of Windmill known variously as John Webb's Mill or Lowe's Mill. Thaxted Windmill is a grade II listed tower mill on the edge of the historic hilltop town of Thaxted, about 6 miles south east of Saffron Walden. The mill stands 48 feet high, and is made of red brick, with four wooden sails. The mill was erected in 1804 on land owned by John Webb, a successful businessman who owned a number of properties locally, including a brick and tile work, and the local Swan Inn. There were 4 other mills in Thaxted at the time, but these were traditional post mills, whereas Webb's Mill was built to a tower design (a post mill rotates the entire body of the structure around a central column, while a tower mill rotates a moveable cap to which the sails are attatched). The family of millers who worked the mill were the Lowe family, and so the building is sometimes referred to as Lowe's Mill. Interestingly, one of the recent leaders of the John Webb’s Windmill Trust that runs the mill is a direct descendent of the Lowe family. The building material was local brick, fired just half a mile away, and there were 3 sets of millstones. The mill was in operation for just over a century, but by 1907 it was uneconomic to keep open. The advent of efficient steam engines made wind power less appealling and more costly. #red #windmill #sunset #uk #britain #england
Find a new advent window display in Thaxted every day during December, up to the 24th of December. Inspired by the hugely popular event in Saltaire, 2017 is the first for Thaxted. A new window is lit at 5pm on their given day and remain lit every evening until at least Christmas. There are some charming, beautiful and wonderful windows to be seen. #red #longexposure #lighttrails #christmasishere #festive #advent #christmas #uk #britain #england
Lovely walk on local public pathway with fantastic views of Windmill known variously as John Webb's Mill or Lowe's Mill. Thaxted Windmill is a grade II listed tower mill on the edge of the historic hilltop town of Thaxted, about 6 miles south east of Saffron Walden. The mill stands 48 feet high, and is made of red brick, with four wooden sails. The mill was erected in 1804 on land owned by John Webb, a successful businessman who owned a number of properties locally, including a brick and tile work, and the local Swan Inn. There were 4 other mills in Thaxted at the time, but these were traditional post mills, whereas Webb's Mill was built to a tower design (a post mill rotates the entire body of the structure around a central column, while a tower mill rotates a moveable cap to which the sails are attatched). The family of millers who worked the mill were the Lowe family, and so the building is sometimes referred to as Lowe's Mill. Interestingly, one of the recent leaders of the John Webb’s Windmill Trust that runs the mill is a direct descendent of the Lowe family. The building material was local brick, fired just half a mile away, and there were 3 sets of millstones. The mill was in operation for just over a century, but by 1907 it was uneconomic to keep open. The advent of efficient steam engines made wind power less appealling and more costly. #red #windmill #sunset #uk #britain #england
Lovely walk on local public pathway with fantastic views of Windmill known variously as John Webb's Mill or Lowe's Mill. Thaxted Windmill is a grade II listed tower mill on the edge of the historic hilltop town of Thaxted, about 6 miles south east of Saffron Walden. The mill stands 48 feet high, and is made of red brick, with four wooden sails. The mill was erected in 1804 on land owned by John Webb, a successful businessman who owned a number of properties locally, including a brick and tile work, and the local Swan Inn. There were 4 other mills in Thaxted at the time, but these were traditional post mills, whereas Webb's Mill was built to a tower design (a post mill rotates the entire body of the structure around a central column, while a tower mill rotates a moveable cap to which the sails are attatched). The family of millers who worked the mill were the Lowe family, and so the building is sometimes referred to as Lowe's Mill. Interestingly, one of the recent leaders of the John Webb’s Windmill Trust that runs the mill is a direct descendent of the Lowe family. The building material was local brick, fired just half a mile away, and there were 3 sets of millstones. The mill was in operation for just over a century, but by 1907 it was uneconomic to keep open. The advent of efficient steam engines made wind power less appealling and more costly. #red #windmill #sunset #uk #britain #england #eastanglia #colours #history #perspectives
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Thaxted

Popular places to visit

Thaxted Parish Church

After visiting Thaxted Parish Church, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Thaxted. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Thaxted Parish Church

Crazy Dog Field

After visiting Crazy Dog Field, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dunmow. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Crazy Dog Field

Frequently asked questions

Is Thaxted worth visiting?
Thaxted offers an interesting mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or local culinary flavors, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Thaxted?
Kick-start your adventures with a visit to the leading attractions. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Thaxted while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Thaxted?
Scroll up to browse a selection of recommended things to do in Thaxted, including cheap activities, family-friendly options and other highlights you shouldn't miss.
Is three days enough to stay in Thaxted?
Book a vacation in Thaxted for three days and you'll comfortably be able to explore its main sights and experience the local vibe. For the chance to see attractions in the surrounding areas and get off the tourist trail, consider visiting for seven to ten days.
What are some activities to do in Thaxted with kids?
Planning what to do in Thaxted with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Thaxted for adults?
Adults of all ages will have lots of things to do in Thaxted. Whether you're into history, art, nature or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Thaxted?
There are plenty of great things to do in Thaxted. Explore the parks or catch free shows and events. Thaxted offers lots of budget-friendly experiences that let you discover this area without reaching for your wallet.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia