Little Canfield lies in the Roding Valley, on the B1256 (the old A120) and also on the Flitch Way. The village was mentioned in the Doomsday book.

As of 1st December 2008 there are 433 people on the current register of electors, which excludes children. There are now 291 houses in the village, including old ones with no electors, but not including new houses built but with no residents.

To reach Little Canfield, leave the M11 at junction 8 and go through Takeley or leave the A120 at the Dunmow West roundabout (signposted to Takeley and Hatfield Forest).