Halstead is a town and civil parish found in Braintree District of Essex in England. The town is near Colchester and Sudbury, in the Colne Valley. In accordance with the 2011 Census, Halstead has a permanent population of 11906. The town originally developed on the hill to the north of the river. The name Halstead is claimed to have actually come from the Old English 'hald' (sanctuary, shelter, healthy) and 'stede' (site, place or farm), meaning 'healthy farm' 'safe place' or 'place of safety'. The historical core of Halstead can be observed on a walk up the market hill. There are many social, cultural and leisure options in Halstead. A river walk runs through the town from east to west, and just outside the town is Broaks Wood, a popular space for taking a walk owned by the Forestry Commission. Halstead Public Gardens were set up in 1900 and is noted for its botanic displays. Townsford Mill that spans the river at the bottom of the town houses the Antiques Centre, with countless intriguing pieces ranging from clothing to household products. A historical society consistently holds monthly meetings, and a town museum connected to the town council offices features some historic artefacts and various things confined to regional interest. The Empire Theatre in Butler Road hosts occasional bingo nights. Halstead is also the home of Hume's Bakery, which opened in 1960, and continues to trade at the exact same shop. Halstead's best football club is Halstead Town F.C. The club plays in the 10th tier of the English football league system, in the Eastern Counties Football League Division One. The town is additionally home to a cricket club and a rugby club that play regularly. For all your home improvements, make certain to identify respected professionals in Halstead to make certain of quality.