Hempstead is a small historic village situated seven miles east of Saffron Walden in the north-west corner of Essex. The notorious highwayman Dick Turpin was born in the village public house and William Harvey, who discovered the circulation of blood in the human body, is interred with many members of his family in the Church. Hempstead has a population of some 400 residents and enjoys a high level of social interaction. There are several lively societies which are enjoyed by many of the residents. These include the Dramatic Society, Gardeners Club, Art Group, History Group, Pre-School and Keep Fit. All these groups use the village hall as the main venue for their activities along with ad hoc events such as Quiz Nights, Harvest Supper, Dinner evenings, Beetle drives etc. The Bluebell Inn (CAMRA North West Essex pub of the year 2005) also plays an important part in village life and is currently run by Rod & Marian Stokes. They have recently attained accreditation in The Good Beer Guide, unusual for an independent, and are keen followers of folk music. Tuesday evenings have seen some extremely high quality performers play at the pub, and on evenings where there is no specific booking, the free music sessions have attracted many singers and players of all ages. Hempstead - a great village to live and participate in.