Officially in Essex but only 18 miles from Cambridge, the thriving market town of Saffron Walden is buzzing with things to do, things to see and lots of lovely independent shops and traders – some you may recognise from Cambridge too!
Saffron Walden’s indie offering includes great boutiques, galleries, cafés, restaurants, antiques and of course market stalls. A market has been held here since 1141 and market days are now every Tuesday and Saturday. Stalls vary from week to week, but among the flowers and the fresh fruit you will no doubt find handy household items, fashions, health foods, jewellery, fresh fish and other groceries including locally-sourced organic fruit and veg.
Beyond shopping, Bridge End Gardens is a beautiful setting, with a restored Victorian yew hedge maze that kids will love. There’s also an ancient turf maze on the common and a miniature railway, a skate park and the Kids’ Museum. History buffs can pay a visit to Audley End House and for art-lovers, the Fry Gallery is not to be missed.
The town is also home to the award-winning independent cinema (Saffron Screen) and a highly acclaimed concert hall.
It’s easy to find your way, by train from Cambridge to Audley End station (followed by a short bus ride to the town centre), by bus from the Cambridge Bus Station or by a 20 minute car journey following the A11 south.
Saffron Shop Local: www.facebook.com/pages/Saffron-Shop-Local/110250389145374
Tourist Information: www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk
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The colourful and informative book, Independent Cambridge, is available from Waterstones, Heffers, many of the independent shops and online at www.independent-cambridge.co.uk
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