Top 10 Walks In Essex

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 essex walks
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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 Bois
End Point: Circular route
Distance (miles): 6
Terrain: Ancient woodlands
Difficulty: Easy
Notable 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 Mersea
End Point: Circular route
Distance (miles): 10
Terrain: Coastal paths, beaches
Difficulty: Easy
Notable 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 Churchend
End Point: Circular route
Distance (miles): 5.75
Terrain: Sea walls, marshes
Difficulty: Easy
Notable 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 Basin
End Point: Osea Island and back
Distance (miles): 7
Terrain: River paths, causeway
Difficulty: Easy
Notable 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 Green
End Point: Circular route
Distance (miles): 6.4
Terrain: Farmlands, woodlands, hills
Difficulty: Moderate
Notable 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.

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