Places to Walk Archives - Page 5 of 13

Essex, located in the South East of England, is a county of remarkable contrasts, offering both a rich history and a wealth of natural beauty. Bordering London to the west and the North Sea to the east, it has long been a gateway between the city and the countryside. It's landscapes are diverse, ranging from ancient woodlands and rolling farmlands to tidal estuaries and picturesque coastline. For hikers, Essex presents an ideal destination, with its extensive network of trails and footpaths that weave through charming villages, historic landmarks, and nature reserves. The county's flat terrain makes it accessible to walkers of all abilities, while its more undulating trails, such as those around Hadleigh Castle or Epping Forest, provide variety and challenge. Essex boasts a rich history that dates back to Roman Britain, with the county's name derived from the East Saxons who settled here in the 6th century. Visitors can explore remnants of its past, from the ancient chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, one of the oldest Christian sites in England, to Colchester, the country's first recorded Roman city. The county is also known for its maritime heritage, as seen in its historic ports and coastal towns like Maldon and Harwich. Hikers will find Essex’s blend of history and nature particularly appealing, with many trails leading to or passing by key landmarks, such as the ruins of Hadleigh Castle overlooking the Thames Estuary or the peaceful marshes around Mersea Island. Whether it’s the allure of its historic towns or the tranquil beauty of its countryside, Essex offers an enriching experience for those who love walking and exploring the outdoors. The Top 10 Walks In Essex 1. The Essex Way Starting point : Epping Ending Point : Harwich Distance : 81 miles Terrain : Varied (fields, woodlands, villages) Difficulty : Moderate What to see en route : Historic towns along the route This long-distance path offers a diverse experience, passing through fields, woodlands, and charming villages, showcasing the rich history and natural beauty of Essex. 2. St Peter's Way Starting point : Chipping Ongar Ending Point : St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel, Bradwell-on-Sea Distance : 41 miles Terrain : Rural landscapes, coastal marshes Difficulty : Moderate What to see en route : St Peter-on-the-Wall Chapel A pilgrimage route leading to the ancient chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, traversing rural landscapes and coastal marshes. 3. Saffron Trail Starting point : Southend-on-Sea Ending Point : Saffron Walden Distance : 71 miles Terrain : Urban areas, fields, woodlands Difficulty : Moderate What to see en route : Saffron Walden's historic sites Connecting the coastal town of Southend-on-Sea to the historic market town of Saffron Walden, this trail passes through various terrains, including urban areas, fields, and woodlands. 4. Thames Estuary Path Start Point: Tilbury Town End Point: Leigh-on-Sea Distance (miles): 29 Terrain: Sea walls, marshes, industrial areas Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Thames Estuary views Following the northern side of the Thames estuary, this path offers a mix of industrial heritage and natural beauty, with expansive estuary views. 5. Hadleigh Castle and Thames Estuary Walk Start Point: Hadleigh Castle Country Park End Point: Thames Estuary Distance (miles): 5 Terrain: Hills, estuary views Difficulty: Easy Notable Landmark: Hadleigh Castle ruins A scenic route that combines gentle hills with stunning estuary vistas, centered around the historic Hadleigh Castle ruins. 6. Epping Forest Oak Trail Start Point: Theydon BoisEnd Point: Circular routeDistance (miles): 6Terrain: Ancient woodlandsDifficulty: EasyNotable Landmark: Ancient oak trees Notes: A tranquil walk through ancient woodlands, featuring majestic oak trees and diverse wildlife. 7. Mersea Island Circular Walk Start Point: West MerseaEnd Point: Circular routeDistance (miles): 10Terrain: Coastal paths, beachesDifficulty: EasyNotable Landmark: Coastal scenery Notes: Encircling Mersea Island, this coastal path offers beachside walking and opportunities to observe local marine life. 8. Paglesham Churchend Walk Start Point: Paglesham ChurchendEnd Point: Circular routeDistance (miles): 5.75Terrain: Sea walls, marshesDifficulty: EasyNotable Landmark: Views of River Roach Notes: A peaceful route along sea walls and marshes, providing serene views of the River Roach and abundant birdwatching opportunities. 9. Heybridge Basin to Osea Island Start Point: Heybridge BasinEnd Point: Osea Island and backDistance (miles): 7Terrain: River paths, causewayDifficulty: EasyNotable Landmark: Osea Island Notes: This walk follows river paths and includes a causeway crossing to Osea Island, offering unique coastal scenery. 10. Bumbles Green Circular Walk Start Point: Bumbles GreenEnd Point: Circular routeDistance (miles): 6.4Terrain: Farmlands, woodlands, hillsDifficulty: ModerateNotable Landmark: Obelisk viewpoint Notes: A varied walk through farmlands, woodlands, and rolling hills, leading to an obelisk with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Summary - Top 10 Walks in Essex We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Essex. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.