Downham Loop from Hanningfield Reservoir

Starting from the car park at Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, just off Giffords Lane near Billericay in Essex, this 20 km (about 12.4 miles) loop offers a gentle adventure through the rolling countryside of southeast England, with a total elevation gain of approximately 300 metres (984 feet). The trail is well-suited for those seeking an easy yet rewarding day out, with a mix of woodland, open fields, and charming villages.Getting ThereFor those arriving by car, the Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre provides ample parking and is easily accessed from the A132 or A129, with clear signposting from the main roads. If using public transport, the nearest railway station is Billericay, which is served by regular trains from London Liverpool Street. From Billericay station, local buses or a short taxi ride will bring you to the reservoir’s visitor centre.Trail Overview and NavigationThe loop begins at the reservoir, a renowned birdwatching site managed by Essex Wildlife Trust. HiiKER is recommended for navigation, as the route weaves through a patchwork of farmland, ancient woodland, and quiet country lanes, with several waymarked paths and bridleways intersecting the area.Reservoir and Woodland WildlifeThe first section skirts the edge of Hanningfield Reservoir, where you’ll likely spot tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and, in spring and autumn, migratory waders. The adjacent woodlands are home to bluebells in late April and early May, and you may catch glimpses of muntjac deer or foxes darting through the undergrowth.Historic Downham Village and CountrysideAt around 6 km (3.7 miles), the route passes through Downham, a picturesque village with roots dating back to the Domesday Book. St. Margaret’s Church, with its Norman origins and distinctive flint tower, is a highlight worth a brief detour. The village green and nearby cottages evoke a timeless rural charm.Open Fields and Panoramic ViewsBeyond Downham, the trail climbs gently through open farmland, offering wide views across the Essex countryside. The highest point, reached at about 10 km (6.2 miles), provides a sweeping panorama—on clear days, you can see as far as the Thames Estuary. The elevation gain is gradual, making it accessible for most walkers.Return via Ramsden Heath and Ancient WoodlandThe loop continues through Ramsden Heath, a small village with a welcoming pub ideal for a rest stop. The final stretch leads through ancient woodland, where oak, ash, and hornbeam trees create a tranquil canopy. Listen for woodpeckers and songbirds, especially in the early morning.Practical ConsiderationsThe trail is mostly on well-maintained footpaths and bridleways, with some short sections on quiet country roads. After heavy rain, some field crossings can become muddy, so waterproof footwear is advisable. There are several stiles and kissing gates, but gradients remain gentle throughout. Facilities, including toilets and a café, are available at the Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre at the start and end of the walk.This loop is a perfect introduction to the gentle landscapes and rich history of rural Essex, blending natural beauty with glimpses of the region’s past. For up-to-date route details and wayfinding, consult HiiKER before setting out.