Premier Inn Brentwood

Absolutely! Brentwood is a great mix of countryside and lively town life, making it a lovely spot for a day trip or a short break. Families can spend time at Weald Country Park, where open meadows, woodlands and lakes provide space for picnics, nature walks and deer spotting. Old MacDonald’s Farm is perfect for younger visitors, with animal encounters and outdoor play areas. History lovers can head to Ingatestone Hall, a Tudor manor house that’s still family owned and packed with period features. Brentwood’s high street has a mix of shops, cafes and restaurants to explore after a walk in the surrounding countryside.

No, Brentwood isn’t classed as London – it’s in Essex, just northeast of the capital. However, it’s close enough to feel connected, and many commute into London. It benefits from great transport links, including the Elizabeth Line, which takes you straight into central London in under 40 minutes, and it’s also near the M25 for easy access by car.  

Brentwood dates back to the 12th century, originally growing as a small settlement along an old pilgrimage route to Canterbury. Its name is thought to come from “burnt wood,” possibly referencing a clearing made in the forest by fire to create space for the early settlement. During the coaching era in the 18th century, it became an important stop for people on the London to East Anglia route, and many of the old inns and historic buildings reflect this past. Today, while it’s a modern and lively town, you can still spot traces of its history in places like St Thomas’ Church and Ingatestone Hall. 

Brentwood is known for a few different things. Nature lovers know it for Weald Country Park, a huge green space with woodlands, open fields, and deer, which inspired the Stick Man story trail. You might also recognise Brentwood as the home of The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE), which has brought attention to its boutiques, salons and cafes along the high street. It’s also known for its historic coaching heritage and surrounding Essex countryside, making it a unique mix of relaxing rural escapes and modern town life.