The Children of Calais

The Children of Calais is a bronze sculpture that sits quietly on the Essex countryside just outside Saffron Walden, a reminder of one of the most troubling episodes in recent British history. Created by British artist Jane McAdam Freud, it depicts a group of young migrants and stands as a memorial to the children who were living in the Calais refugee camp before it was dismantled in 2016.

The sculpture itself is deeply affecting - life-sized figures arranged in a moment of stillness that somehow captures both vulnerability and resilience. It's not a comfortable thing to stand in front of, which is rather the point. You're looking at real human stories condensed into bronze.

This isn't a destination you'd spend hours at. Most people spend twenty minutes here, maybe thirty if you're genuinely moved by it. Families with older children and teenagers will find it thought-provoking; younger kids might not grasp its significance. History buffs and anyone interested in contemporary social issues will find it worth the pilgrimage.

The location itself is fairly remote, so it works best as part of a broader Essex exploration rather than a standalone visit. If you're based at Hidden Gem Glamping or Pightle Farm Campsite nearby, it's an easy addition to a day out. There's no visitor centre or cafe, so don't plan a leisurely afternoon here. Go for the sculpture, stay for the reflection it provokes.