Halstead
Halstead is a town and civil parish located 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 initially grew on the hill to the north of the river. The name Halstead is believed to have stemmed from the Old English 'hald' (haven, shelter, healthy) and 'stede' (site, place or farm), meaning 'healthy farm' 'safe place' or 'place of sanctuary'. The historical core of Halstead can be viewed on a walk up the market hill. There are a lot of 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 spot for taking a walk owned by the Forestry Commission. Halstead Public Gardens were established 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 interesting pieces ranging from clothing to home items. A historical society routinely holds monthly conferences, and a town museum attached to the town council offices contains some historic artefacts and a range of things confined to local interest. The Empire Theatre in Butler Road hosts periodic bingo nights. Halstead is also the home of Hume's Bakery, which opened in 1960, and continues to trade at the 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 also home to a cricket club and a rugby club that play regularly. For all your home refurbishments, make sure to identify reputable professionals in Halstead to make certain of quality.
