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1-Day Ongar Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Ongar in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Ongar, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Ongar (often called Chipping Ongar) offers a compact historic high street with timber-framed buildings, old coaching inns and a traditional market-town feel. Visitors can see remnants of Ongar Castle, one of England’s early Norman motte-and-bailey sites, and the medieval St Martin’s Church. The heritage Epping Ongar Railway runs nearby, with vintage trains linking the town to countryside walks and the edge of Epping Forest. Its rural Essex setting also makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby villages and scenic lanes.
With favorites like Epping Ongar Railway, Smith's of Ongar, and Vojan Restaurant, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like Nerissa and Claire's Coffee Bar and Restaurant and Smith's of Ongar so you can get the best taste of Ongar while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Visiting Ongar? See our Ongar Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Ongar in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Epping Ongar Railway and St Andrews Church with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Ongar without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 2 hours of your day.
1

Epping Ongar Railway

4.6
(1025)
•
4.1
(657)
Heritage railroad
Tours
Rail museum
Scenic Railroads
Embark on a journey with the Epping Ongar Railway for a unique and stylish travel experience. The medieval town of Chipping Ongar offers an intriguing market and historical exploration. Visitors can enjoy themed events such as the Christmas light train, where passengers are treated to festive decorations, hot chocolate, and friendly staff engaging in singing and dancing. While some passengers wished for more onboard activities for children, others appreciated the quaint two-hour steam train ride with included picnic lunch.
It's a great little line,what I like is the enthusiasm that the place gives off,services are ran by diesel and steam and its just a nice trip down memory lane.who doesn't want to ride in a slam door carriage and feel the spring in a 70's coach seat..excellent, you can taste the age that the trains come from in the sights and smells..Also riding the vintage buses between epping,North weald and Ongar is a special treat to.long may these experiences continue. And of course lovely countryside of Essex.
David P — Google review
We had the fish n chips lunch. We were pulled by both steam and diesel locos. The whole day was so good. There is plenty to see in the way of old locos and memorabilia. It's definitely worth the visit. We started our journey at North Weald where parking is available onside and surrounding area.
Michael R — Google review
A lovely little steam railway. Lots of helpful, friendly volunteers, all smartly suited and booted. We joined at Ongar but soon found out about parking difficulties eventually finding a place in the library public car park a few minutes down the road. A quick jog back to catch our steam-pulled train through a couple of miles of Essex countryside, just a few minutes stop at North Weald before returning on the same train this time pulled by a diesel loco. We liked the Thomas-lookalike engine, the good signage, helpful volunteers and the pretty countryside over our short ride. Quite expensive but we expect it costs a lot to run a railway. Recommended.
Ian F — Google review
Went on the railway for the first time today for the Halloween event and was so impressed with the whole experience. All the staff were absolutely amazing and the train and old London buses were brilliant. Will be back for a general ride and also the Christmas event. Thank you to everyone who helped make our day so enjoyable
A L — Google review
The day out gets five stars - but - to get the most of the visit I’d recommend using both the trains and the buses. The ticket covers both and the 339 bus is a great ride. On the day we visited trains were not serving Epping Forest meaning a long wait at North Weald, but the 339 filled this in perfectly. The train journey was great, very relaxing and the vast Essex countryside gives weight to this - incredible to think that this was part of the tube many years ago! There is so much history on display, from representing the Great Eastern Railway, to the LNER, right up to British Rail and of course London Transport. This railway is unique to capture so many different genres in its time and it all works so well, the mainline steam/diesel across to London Transport buses. A winning combination. Great day out and top marks, cheers!
Captainpubwatch — Google review
What a fantastic railway. The staff are so friendly and helpful, each station is lovely to look at. The steam trains are out of this world. Always a special day out.
T — Google review
A unique heritage train rides with options to ride on diesal or steam trains. The train itself is very comfortable and it was so cool seeing the head carriage uncoupling at north weald station and ongar! There was lots to do at each station. At north weal station, I walked it to the oldest wodden church in the world, Greenstead Church after walking through a field of sunflowers. The scenery is very amazing, with horses right by you and the people are very friendly. The vintage bus was also a highlight as well as looking at the north weald airstrip, though directions on the inside of the airstrip is non existant. The highlight of the railway was going on the steam trains as the steam locomotive that pulled our carriage had inspired thomas the tank engine! The staff were very friendly in stations and in the trains and buses! Definitely worth the visit!
Perhaps — Google review
We visited the railway last night, the experience from start to finish way amazing. We are a large family group, ages from 6months to 60 + the evening was enjoyed by all. The staff are friendly and helpful and joined in with all the fun. The station and train are decked out in thousands of lights, and the on board entertainment went above and beyond. We left the railway on a high, can't recommend this experience highly enough.
Lynn A — Google review
Railway Station, Station Approach, Epping, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 9BN, United Kingdom•http://www.eorailway.co.uk/•+44 1277 365200•Tips and more reviews for Epping Ongar Railway
3 min · 1.6 mi
2

St Andrews Church

4.9
(309)
•
4.6
(62)
Anglican church
Sights & Landmarks
Churches & Cathedrals
Parts of this Church of England place of worship are believed to originate from the 11th century. St. Andrews Church, an Anglican church located in Essex, is a remarkable historical monument with over a millennium of history. The walls of this ancient church hold inscriptions that can leave visitors speechless and impressed by the opportunity to learn something new about the area's rich heritage.
Great place to visit! It’s nice and quiet, and pleasantly cool inside. There are lots of things you can buy, like jams, local honey, and more. A really cool spot overall, and you can also enjoy a nice walk around the area and explore
Marianna Z — Google review
Wonderful wooden church in Greensted – such a unique and peaceful place. For a long time people thought it was built in 845, though later studies showed it’s about 200 years younger. Inside the old oak walls you really feel the history. There’s even a small “leper’s squint” in the north wall, where, according to legend, those with leprosy once watched the service. Quiet, calm, and full of timeless beauty.
Snejana F — Google review
A historical church which the oldest timber church in the world. A small church which is very small and quiet. Be careful when closing the door, I thought i was locked in but you have to pull the lever and twist it to the right. There's a cemetery near by with park bemches and a public footpath that is easy to follow that directs you straight to ongar station, so perfect to visit if you're looking for something to do while waiting for the epping ongar railway train
Perhaps — Google review
The oldest wooden church in the world, amazing little church, so old, feels so calm and peaceful, and you can buy local honey, mint sauce, horseradish, and lots of other things, well worth a visit,The oak timbers are over 1,000 years old.
Steve P — Google review
Beautiful! oldest wooden church in the world. St Andrew's Church in Greensted-juxta-Ongar, commonly known as Greensted Church. Oldest wooden church in the world and oldest "stave built" timber building in Europe. The timber planks of the church's nave date from approximately 1060 AD, though earlier timber structures from the 6th and 7th centuries were discovered during excavations in the chancel. No tickets. Tip: bring some cash, you can purchase some homemade jam / chutney / honey inside the church.
Ania N — Google review
I have been wanting to visit here for years, and I finally took the time to divert from my route to make the visit. And it was very much worth it. This historical wooden church is stunning. It's a fascinating building, made over very different eras, using differing materials and styles etc. There's a good amount of information at hand to explain all. We took time to have a snack in the grounds, whilst sat on a bench admiring the view, bare footed we strolled about, taking I the scent of the roses. And inside we sat, appreciating the calm and quiet. Contemplating the span of time that this church has survived.
Andrew B — Google review
Visiting this little church was so incredible. It took about 2 hours from paddington on public transport, and a 1 mile walk, but was so worth it. The church was beautiful and so well preserved. I was the only person there when I visited and took my time soaking in the ancient building.
Rilynn V — Google review
beautiful church and we came across when rambling walk and visit inside to find a little shop and bought some jams and honey. Instresting building.
David D — Google review
Church Ln, Ongar, CM5 9LD, United Kingdom•http://www.greenstedchurch.org.uk/•+44 1277 532770•Tips and more reviews for St Andrew's Church
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Where to eat

Under a 5-minute walk from Epping Ongar Railway, here are a few close by recommendations for when you get hungry exploring around.

Nerissa and Claire's Coffee Bar and Restaurant

4.6
(110)
•
4.4
(56)
$$$$affordable
Coffee shop
Nestled in a cozy corner, Nerissa and Claire's Coffee Bar and Restaurant is the perfect spot for a delightful meal or a casual catch-up with friends. Whether you're grabbing a takeaway jacket potato loaded with cheese and beans or enjoying a leisurely breakfast of perfectly poached eggs, the food here is consistently fresh and delicious. The generous portions are complemented by thoughtful touches like complimentary condiments, cutlery, and even homemade coleslaw.
First visit last week. Greeted with a smile as soon as we walked in. Both had light breakfast huge portions. Great produce. Delicious. Highly recommend
Louise L — Google review
I came in at lunch to get a jacket cheese and beans to takeaway. They were super efficient, and the food was well prepared and packed. The price was good as the jacket also came with a side of dressed salad and homemade coleslaw, which was delish! The portions were also really good. When getting home, I also realised they had provided a packet with cutlery, little packs of proper butter, salt, pepper, and mayo! Such a good complimentary condiment selection! Really yummy and will 100% be coming back.
Indiana R — Google review
Lovely coffee shop and gorgeous food. Had a delicious tuna melt tosstie and it felt very relaxed. Felt safe with covid precautions in place too. I'd definitely come back!
Simon C — Google review
Great little spot. The food is lovely, fresh and reasonably priced. Scones were delicious! A real gem!
G B — Google review
Wow. Everything was perfect. Great food. Perfect poached egg. Fresh. Delicious. Great atmosphere. Really, really friendly staff. I spent Thursday morning working on my laptop. Had 3 coffees and a LOVELY breakfast and only spent £15 something. Has a lot of regulars who they treat great. That is saying something. I heartily recommend this place.
Aumchanter P — Google review
Gets busy but that's because it's fairly priced with big portions and an owner / manager ethos. Helpful and good food.
Justin H — Google review
This place looks nice inside and was a good place to meet my friend for a catch up. Staff were lovely and so was the tea and scones. I would visit again.
Kerry T — Google review
Lovely family lunch. My wife, my 2 year old son and I had toasted sandwiches that were tasty and arrived quickly (ideal as we didn't have long before we had to catch the train back). Service was exemplary, friendly staff, all smiling (behind masks of course) and completed our requests for a high chair and extra sauce with pleasure. When we go back to Ongar we will not hesitate to stop off for a bite to eat. Latte was lovely too!! Thank you
Chris K — Google review
Budworth Hall, 205 High St, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 9JG, United Kingdom•+44 1277 514051•Tips and more reviews for Nerissa and Claire's Coffee Bar and Restaurant

Smith's of Ongar

4.7
(1611)
•
4.5
(1697)
$$$$expensive
Seafood restaurant
Smith's of Ongar is a renowned seafood destination that has been serving customers since 1958. The restaurant prides itself on its extensive menu featuring a variety of fresh fish and meat dishes. From Whitstable cockles to Scottish oak-smoked salmon, the a la carte menu offers an array of delectable options. With locations in Ongar and Wapping, London, Smith's is celebrated for its high-quality food sourced sustainably and prepared by master fishmongers.
Upscale food in a charming setting, like a modern barn conversion but with mood lighting and discreet chandeliers. The fish was top quality, I had sea bream in brown butter with capers after a seared tuna starter. Loved it.
James ( — Google review
From the get go we were welcomed by lovely staff. From the food to the beautiful cocktails it was absolutely perfect! Highly recommend
Rita S — Google review
Last time came here was with friends who have long since moved away whilst after not living nearby and then bring abroad we've moved close. Sure it seems bigger than then but my memory might be iffy. Really enjoyed the food here it was very busy for a weekday lunch so booking probably essential. Torn between the set and there al a carte but in the end went for the set menu.
Ian B — Google review
We went for the weekday lunch menu and it was delicious! My favourite was the mussels, followed closely by my dessert. Great value for money and fresh quality food xxx
Rebecca W — Google review
Another absolutely beautiful meal at this wonderful restaurant! Food as always was delicious, and the service was second to none. Oh, and the lobster was amazing!
Dave Q — Google review
The food was pretty good but I do have to say the pricing is incredibly high for such small and simple portions, overall good staff good experience
Ellie T — Google review
We had the most amazing time today. The 3rd time I've been. The food is incredible. A special thanks to Alfie who was brilliant along with the other members of staff. I cannot thank you enough ❤
Rosalind F — Google review
As usual. Excellent service, friendly staff. Great food and comfortable, elegant restaurant
Steve S — Google review
Fyfield Rd, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 0AL, United Kingdom•https://smithsrestaurants.com/smiths-ongar/•+44 1277 365578•Tips and more reviews for Smith's of Ongar
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Vojan Restaurant

4.5
(296)
•
3.9
(255)
$$$$affordable
Indian restaurant
Vojan Restaurant is a delightful gem that goes beyond the typical dining experience, making every visit feel special. Whether you're celebrating a private event or simply enjoying a night out with friends, Vojan ensures an unforgettable atmosphere complete with DJs on weekends. The menu boasts an impressive array of flavorful dishes, including standout options like tender lamb shank that melts in your mouth. Guests rave about the attentive yet unobtrusive service and the vibrant cocktails and lassis available to complement their meals.
Such a lovely place. It is one of the best indian restaurants in Essex. The food and service are outstanding every time. Love coming here
Cherished B — Google review
Great food, very friendly staff, and a vibrant atmosphere 😀. Highly recommended.
Kevin R — Google review
Our first visit tonight, the waiters made us really welcome and were helpful with selections from the menu. The food was really excellent quality and good quantitiy too. We will definately be coming back.
Darren E — Google review
This is not only just a standard Indian restaurant. they pull all the stops out to make it a great night.. DJs on a weekend and they are 5 star for your private party… I called up and asked for a certain wine brand for a party I was attending and they went all out to get in my request. An amazing night dancing away and can’t wait to book for another event… to everyone at vojans you all need a pat on the back and keep doing what your doing. 😊😊
Lois D — Google review
Always excellent food wether you eat in or have takeaway. Friendly staff who are attentive but not hovering round the table all the time.
David L — Google review
A wonderful meal for a special family occasion. Stunning food and lovely service. Highly recommend!
Jaymey M — Google review
My first visit here with a large group. Great selection of tasting food serving different cocktails and lassies! Once you're done eating you can relax in the back garden where they have a massive pond with plenty of fish to see! They also have a huge car park at the back so parking is not a problem.
Khalid M — Google review
Very beautiful restaurant, enjoyed many tasty dishes , my favorite was the lamb shank , was very tender the meat just fell off the bone . Definitely will be coming back
Fahmeda N — Google review
Epping Rd, Ongar, CM5 0DE, United Kingdom•https://vojanrestaurant.co.uk/•+44 1277 362293•Tips and more reviews for Vojan Restaurant
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What's the weather like in Ongar?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ongar for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Ongar in January
  • Weather in Ongar in February
  • Weather in Ongar in March
  • Weather in Ongar in April
  • Weather in Ongar in May
  • Weather in Ongar in June
  • Weather in Ongar in July
  • Weather in Ongar in August
  • Weather in Ongar in September
  • Weather in Ongar in October
  • Weather in Ongar in November
  • Weather in Ongar in December

Explore nearby places

  • Ongar
  • Kelvedon Hatch
  • Brentwood
  • Harlow
  • Billericay
  • Romford
  • Chelmsford
  • Chigwell
  • Hornchurch
  • Upminster
  • Waltham Abbey
  • Broxbourne
  • Waltham Cross
  • Ilford
  • Basildon
  • Stansted Mountfitchet
  • Waltham Forest
  • Ware
  • Thurrock
  • Woodham Ferrers
  • Enfield
  • Grays Thurrock
  • West Thurrock
  • Rayleigh
  • Braintree
  • Greenhithe
  • Bexleyheath
  • Maldon
  • Dartford
  • Gravesend
  • London

All related maps of Ongar

  • Map of Ongar
  • Map of Kelvedon Hatch
  • Map of Brentwood
  • Map of Harlow
  • Map of Billericay
  • Map of Romford
  • Map of Chelmsford
  • Map of Chigwell
  • Map of Hornchurch
  • Map of Upminster
  • Map of Waltham Abbey
  • Map of Broxbourne
  • Map of Waltham Cross
  • Map of Ilford
  • Map of Basildon
  • Map of Stansted Mountfitchet
  • Map of Waltham Forest
  • Map of Ware
  • Map of Thurrock
  • Map of Woodham Ferrers
  • Map of Enfield
  • Map of Grays Thurrock
  • Map of West Thurrock
  • Map of Rayleigh
  • Map of Braintree
  • Map of Greenhithe
  • Map of Bexleyheath
  • Map of Maldon
  • Map of Dartford
  • Map of Gravesend
  • Map of London

Ongar throughout the year

  • Ongar in January
  • Ongar in February
  • Ongar in March
  • Ongar in April
  • Ongar in May
  • Ongar in June
  • Ongar in July
  • Ongar in August
  • Ongar in September
  • Ongar in October
  • Ongar in November
  • Ongar in December

Day itineraries for nearby cities

  • 1-Day London Itinerary
  • 1-Day Chelmsford Itinerary
  • 1-Day Harlow Itinerary
  • 1-Day Gravesend Itinerary
  • 1-Day Thurrock Itinerary
  • 1-Day Dartford Itinerary
  • 1-Day Brentwood Itinerary
  • 1-Day Maldon Itinerary
  • 1-Day Ilford Itinerary
  • 1-Day Romford Itinerary
  • 1-Day Basildon Itinerary
  • 1-Day Braintree Itinerary
  • 1-Day Enfield Itinerary
  • 1-Day Ware Itinerary
  • 1-Day Billericay Itinerary
  • 1-Day Waltham Forest Itinerary
  • 1-Day Bexleyheath Itinerary
  • 1-Day Waltham Abbey Itinerary
  • 1-Day Upminster Itinerary
  • 1-Day Hornchurch Itinerary
  • 1-Day Rayleigh Itinerary
  • 1-Day Broxbourne Itinerary
  • 1-Day Stansted Mountfitchet Itinerary
  • 1-Day Chigwell Itinerary
  • 1-Day Greenhithe Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kelvedon Hatch Itinerary
  • 1-Day Waltham Cross Itinerary
  • 1-Day West Thurrock Itinerary
  • 1-Day Grays Thurrock Itinerary
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