High Ongar

St Mary's Church High Ongar, some parts date from the 12th Century

The village has existed since the beginning of the 17th century, although in the Middle Ages it was probably no more than a tiny hamlet. The oldest surviving house in the village is the timber-framed weather-boarded building known as Post Office Cottages. This dates from the early 17th century and may have been built as the rectory. Part of it was at one time used as a "lock-up".

The most prominent building is the grade 1 listed parish church of St. Mary the Virgin church (main picture) which dates from the mid-12th century. Other listed buildings in the area include: the village school (1867); the Forester's Arms (late 18th century); the Red Lion (now the Masala Zone restaurant), "The Mulberry Tree" restaurant and Nos.1, 2 and 3 Blacksmiths cottages (late 17th century).

High Ongar