These days, this well-travelled route goes by the name of the Essex Great Road, or, more commonly, the A12, but its origins date all the way back to when the Romans ruled Britannia.
Ingatestone village which nestles neraby is probably best known for its Hall of the same name. This impressive red-brick Tudor mansion has been home to the Petre family since its construction in the 16 th century, and once played host to Queen Elizabeth I.
Ideally set within eleven acres of formal gardens, Ingatestone Hall is now a major tourist attraction in the summer months when it welcomes the proletariat into its upmarket grounds.
Ingatestone has a 4,500 strong population and there's lots going on in the village to keep them entertained – particularly in the form of pubs, some of which have been around for a few centuries.
One of the village's oldest establishments, a restaurant, is even said to have a resident ghost or two; nowadays it's called Little Hammonds but it was once known simply – and perhaps accurately - as The Haunt.
Elsewhere, the compact-but-bijou village centre has a variety of shops including, somewhat bizarrely, the one and only supplier of traditional Highland dress in the south of England.
And, with both countryside and commuter links close at hand, it's small wonder that Ingatestone appeals to a cross-section of residents looking to have the best of both worlds.
Some properties in Ingatestone date as far back as the 1700s and 1800s and tend to be situated around the village centre; several are Grade II Listed.
The 1960s brought about the building of many family three and four-bedroom houses which extended the boundaries of Ingatestone.
In more recent years, there have been some new-build developments, including apartments, which has increased the property choice on offer.
Fryerning is one of the most sought-after parts, and its countryside homes tend to cost six figure sums.
Buyers: There are a great many families in Ingatestone, and a huge draw is the Anglo European Secondary School.
This prestigious school was the first in Britain to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma and the first to become a Language College.
Wealthy buyers will find grand, country properties in neighbouring Fryerning, and Willow Green and Whadden Chase also have some substantial houses.
Ingastestone's good transport links to London means it also attracts commuters.
Transport
- Ingatestone is next to the A12 and only 10 minutes from the M25.
- There is a direct rail service to London Liverpool Street with a journey time of around 30 minutes.
- There is a bus service to Brentwood and Chelmsford where there are further transport connections.
- Stansted Airport is approximately 45 minutes per car.
Shopping
- Ingatestone High Street has a good range of shops including: two supermarkets, a post office, a number of hairdressers, optician, chemist, off licence, travel agent, kitchen and bathroom shop, boutique, beautician and several banks.
- Nearby Chelmsford has a great selection of shops, and Brentwood has a good-sized high street.
Eating and drinking
- There are four pubs in Ingatestone, two of which have beer gardens, plus a wine bar. The Bell, in particular is popular for its food.
- There is an Italian, a Chinese and an Indian restaurant in the High Street.
- Ingatestone’s community club has a bar and is child friendly.
Sports and leisure
- Ingatestone Hall is a stunning 16 th century Tudor mansion set in beautiful grounds which, on certain days in during summer months, opens its doors to the public.
- Various local halls run groups and classes including flower arranging, photography, karate, dance and aerobics.
- The gym at the local secondary school is open to the public, and Ingatestone has a cricket and football team.
- Two village parks, Seymour Field and Fairfield Recreation Ground, have a variety of facilities between them including a children's play area, a climbing wall, and football and cricket pitches.
Facilities: Stock is quite a small area. It has a few shops with basics including a post office and newsagent, and it also has a doctor's and a village hall.
Nearby Greenwoods Estate, a luxury spa and retreat, has a gym and swimming pool, and there are a few membership options. There are also two golf clubs in close by.
Property: Sought-after Stock's property prices are a good deal more expensive than those in Ingatestone.
Mill Road and Well Lane have very expensive homes which can reach far beyond a million pounds. More affordable cottages and apartments can be found on the main road that runs through the village.
Buyers: Many older families or people looking to spend a fair amount on their home look to buy here.
Anyone looking to be part of a friendly, village atmosphere will not be disappointed with Stock, but they will need to pay a fair amount for the privilege.
Transport: Stock's main road is on a bus route between Chelmsford and Lakeside via Basildon.
Facilities: The village of Blackmore has a post office and general store as well as three pubs, all serving food, churches, primary schools and various sports facilities.
Property: Prices are similar to Ingatestone, if a little more affordable.
There are some 16th century period properties, cottages and detached houses, which are among the most desirable homes in Blackmore.
The village also has some ex- local authority houses dating from the 1960s and 70s which offer good value for money.
Buyers: Most homes in Blackmore have three and four bedrooms so it suits families seeking a rural location to bring up their kids.
Many residents have been there for years and therefore it may appeal to retirees looking to for a small village to settle in.
Transport: Bus routes run through the village to Brentwood and Chelmsford.