Mysteries
of Mistley
Saturday 20th June 2026
10am-4pm
About the event:
Saturday 20th June 2026
Time: 10am-4pm
Mistley is a wonderful village, with its treasures of architecture, history, scenic views, industry, arts, small business, rugby, cricket and community. So let’s celebrate it.
On Saturday 20th June 2026 10am-4pm, local organisations in Mistley will be opening their doors as part of a trail, food, and history event. There will be competitions, collector cards, prizes, and much more. Keep scrolling to find out who’s on the trail and what they are doing.
2026 MAP
COMING SOON…
What’s on…
Each wonderful organisation (listed A-Z below) will have the following activites going on throughout the day:
EDME
Find out how we source grains from local farmers. Learn how we turn them into wholesome, natural ingredients – flour, flakes, kibbles and mixes – for bakers and food manufacturers across Britain and the world. Savour baked treats made with EDME ingredients from the wonderful Wooster’s Bakery.
Mistley Thorn
Welcome to our new bar area, The Postie. See how the old post office has been transformed, and enjoy a hot or cold refreshment alongside some delicious fresh bakes.
Cooper’s Gallery
We’re based in the beautiful Mistley Quay Workshops, dating back to 1724 and with connections to Constable, whose 250th anniversary is this year. Discover high quality work by local artists and designers, members of Suffolk Craft Society, ceramics, textiles, prints, paintings, sculpture and furniture.
Old Knobbley
Wonder at this 800 year old living piece of history! Think what life was like in Mistley when it was just a sapling. And of all that it has witnessed in its long and noble existence. Talk to Morag Embleton, author of ‘Old Knobbley, the Oak Tree’, about the book (she has copies for sale) and this amazing force of nature.
Mistley Church Hall
We’re offering car parking, toilets, light refreshments, hot and cold drinks – and ice lollies! Enjoy the display about our historic Arts and Crafts Hall and impressive works of the Manningtree Photographic Society.
Manningtree & District Photo Society
We’re a friendly group of photography enthusiasts who meet in Mistley Village Hall on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Thursdays of the month at 7.30 pm. We hold presentations, workshops and competitions for prints and digital images. Join us! On display in the Church Hall , see a few of our best images – some for sale.
Mistley Fisheries
Pop into this family-run business for lunch from 12 – 2pm or stop by after the trail for dinner, served from 4.30 – 9pm. Enjoy traditional fish and chips, or try our delicious vegetarian options!
Station Hair and Beauty
Stop by the front of the Salon, where Heidi the Station Wagon is parked, serving hot and cold drinks and more. Get creative in the craft area which is set up to inspire and spark your imagination.
Mistley Towers
A rare chance to go inside the Towers, courtesy of English Heritage and the Manningtree Museum and Local History Society. Delve into what the Towers were for, who built them, the gap between them, and the national importance of the architecture. Discover the Society’s role in exploring local history, investigating the past and understanding more about the present.
PACE
Manningtree
Meet our fruit and veg growers at the allotments. Get tips and advice on veg growing – in gardens, window boxes or plant pots. Find out what we’re doing to combat the impact of climate change and loss of biodiversity. Also check out Manningtree Earth Festival! https://mef.pacemanningtree.org.uk/
Mistley RUFC
The club has been a central hub of the community for over 40 years. Our dedicated team of coaches and volunteers give up their time to offer rugby – and massively popular social events – to all ages, genders and abilities. It’s a friendly, grass roots village club with members from 5 to 90 years old – and teams to reflect the variations.
St Mary and St Michael’s Church
Uncover the fascinating history of the church and its historic organ. Church members are on hand to provide guided tours. The bell tower will be open some of the day: you can see the bells and hear about bell ringing from our bellringers. There’s a small car park and a toilet – and if it’s a hot day, cold drinks will be available.
Rise & Shine Play Cafe
Stop off for a specialty coffee, matcha or cold refreshment (and maybe a slice of cake or local ice cream!) and take a moment to take in the view of the beautiful river stour. Talk to us about our warm and welcoming space the whole family to connect, play, and recharge – and how to book.
N. Essex & Suffolk Veterans
We’re a registered Veterans’ charity with an ever-growing monthly breakfast club. It brings veterans, their families and members of the local community together and is a great support network for the whole community. Come to our event on Furze Hill on 27th June and find out more!
Mistley Kitchen
Step inside and discover a mix of gorgeous homewares and delicious deli finds – not to mention a selection of fine wines: all perfect for a little browse and some retail therapy.
Cricket Club
We are a 200 year old community based club run by volunteers, We provide Cricket for 5-15 year olds and have 3 men’s Saturday sides, 1 men’s Sunday side and 2 women’s sides, all of whom compete in North Essex and Suffolk leagues. From noon onwards, grab a drink from the bar, watch the games and enjoy the atmosphere!
Manningtree Stour Valley Rotary
Our motto is Service above Self. We support communities and change lives at home and internationally. Find out more: www.manningtreerotary.org.uk
Tea at the Quay
Mistley’s favourite coffee shop is the perfect pit stop for your day of discovery. We serve tasty light bites, amazing cake and our own delicious Mistley Quay Coffee. Complete our ‘Mysteries of Tea at the Quay’ wordsearch, while enjoying stunning views of the river Stour.
Wooster’s Bakery
Acclaimed Bury St Edmunds based bakery renowned for their sourdough and a range of popular speciality products.
Walled Garden Café at Acorn Villages
Tucked away in the heart of Acorn Village, here is a welcoming space offering homemade food, delicious cakes, and barista-style drinks, all served in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Open to all, including dogs! Find out about Acorn Village and the fantastic home it provides for people with a learning disability.
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