History
Throughout the Medieval times it is believed the area we now know as Netteswell had few residents and only three clusters of small houses. Much of the space was made up of green land and a few paths which linked to nearby parishes. It was much later in the Victorian period when more was built within the Netteswell area. The area was considered well connected and residents could easily reach Potter Street or Parndon.
Netteswellbury Farm
The building in which the Harlow Study Centre now sits was once part of Netteswellbury Farm. The former farmhouse is believed to date back to the Medieval period and built around 1440. It was once known as the ‘Netteswellbury Tithe Barn’ and was one of the finest medieval barns within the region.
In later years the barn was used as a horse-riding school, allowing riders to explore Harlow from a central location. In June 1970 a fire broke out at the barn. Three firemen were injured fighting the fire, two escaped with minor cuts and bruises, whilst the third suffered concussion. Later the building was restored by Harlow Council and the historic building can still be seen today by visiting the Harlow Study Centre.
Holocaust Memorial Garden
Netteswell is also home to Harlow’s Holocaust Memorial Garden which is situated at the back of the Harlow Study Centre barn and can be accessed via Netteswellbury Farm. In 2022 a restoration project was carried out to restore the garden to its former glory. The garden is open to the public where people are able to go and pay their respects.
What to see at Harlow Museum?
Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens features the Parish Gallery, exploring the five parishes which originally made up the land where Harlow Town now stands, including Potter Street, Latton, Netteswell, Little and Great Parndon. During your visit you can view multiple maps and artefacts that offer a fascinating glimpse into the physical landscape and lives of residents living in the parishes.
Learn more about Harlow Museum here