From the late 12th century, Brentwood moved from being little more than a forest clearing and a convenient stopping place for pilgrims travelling to Canterbury to a regular coaching station in the 18th century with a selection of good inns. Brentwood is now an affluent very pleasant town with a strong community feel. There are a number of leading attractions nearby such as Ingatestone Hall and the Kelvedon Bunker but closer to home visitors will find Brentwood Museum and Thorndon Country Park. Brentwood is surrounded by countryside and woodland offering excellent areas for walking, horseriding and cycling.