Willingale's Medieval Charm & Alpaca Surprises

0:00On April 3, tucked in the Essex countryside just under an hour's drive from Romford sits Willingill, a tiny village with around 500, 30 residents. It's a civil parish that includes nearby shallow boughs and millers green. Like many rural spots, its pubs, shop, and school have all shut down over time. What keeps it charming are the basics, a village hall, social club, and cricket ground. But here's the standout feature. Willingill boasts the only shared churchyard in Essex between two ancient churches. One's the 12th century St. Andrew and All Saints. The other's the 14th century St. Christopher's with the Essex Way footpath running right. Through locals and visitors dig the peaceful vibe, especially with the rolling pastures drawing crowds to Butler's farm. Herds of alpacas roam there and you can snag alpaca products at their shop or even take a walk with the fluffy crew, they're super welcoming too. History buffs head straight for the memorial to Willingill Airfield,

1:00aka Chipping Angar Airfield. The US Army kicked off construction in August 1942, wrapping it up a year later in August 1943. So next time you're craving that old school English countryside makes of medieval quirks, wartime echoes, and surprise alpaca encounters, point your. Rye toward Willingill, it's a hidden gem worth the detour.