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FELSTED, sometimes spelt Felstead, lies to the S. of
the Great dun-mow to Braintree road, the A120, not far from the River Chelmer.
It is famous for its public school, founded in 1564 by Lord
Rich. In fact you pass through part of the original school to
reach the Church of the Holy Cross, with its Norman west tower
topped by an 18th-cent. cupola.
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A 15th-cent south porch leads to the 12th-cent.
doorway and inside the architecture shows a similar range of
period. Its most splendid feature is the monument to Chancellor
Lord Rich, d. 1568. This large wall tomb is probably by Epiphanius Evesham, one
of the best known sculptors of his time (see the monument to John
Troughton at ingatestone).The Old School House through which you enter the church was part of the late
medieval Guildhall; opposite stands a cottage with its beam proudly carved -
"George Boote made this house 1596". Further along the main street to the E. are
the Victorian buildings of the present school, dating from 1860 with additions
at subsequent dates. From the days when Oliver Cromwell's sons were among its
pupils it has had a fine record of academic and sporting success. It has a
beautiful cricket ground nearby. The unattractive factory used by the sugar-beet industry is something of a
contrast, but its great expanse is to some extent relieved by the cottages and
farm-houses to be found in and around the village.
Advertise and sell property in Felsted
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