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Best city walk hiking trails in Essex
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Best city walk hiking trails in Essex

Want a taste of nature without leaving the city? These city walk trails give you the perfect mix of urban exploration and a touch of greenery, all within the hustle and bustle.

Here are some great trails to explore in Essex.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Harwich International Port to Dovercourt Walk

Essex, England · star 0.0 (0) · 3.6 km · Est. 47 min

2

Easy

Benfleet Downs and Hadleigh Country Park via Saffron Trail

Essex, England · star 5.0 (5) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 30 min

3

Easy

The Flitch Way from Braintree

Essex, England · star 4.0 (3) · 22.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 50 min

4

Easy

Stanford le Hope to Chalkwell Walk

Essex, England · star 0.0 (0) · 23.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 51 min

5

Easy

Castle Park Loop - Colchester Town

Essex, England · star 4.0 (3) · 2.5 km · Est. 34 min

6

Easy

Colchester Castle to Hilly Fields Local Nature Reserve Walk

Essex, England · star 0.0 (0) · 1.7 km · Est. 23 min

7

Easy

Colchester and Hythe Loop via High Woods Country Park

Essex, England · star 5.0 (2) · 17.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 52 min

8

Easy

Halfield Forest and Flitch Way Country Park

Essex, England · star 0.0 (0) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 1 min

9

Easy

Belchamp St Paul Loop

Essex, England · star 5.0 (2) · 10.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

10

Easy

West Mersea Loop Walk

Essex, England · star 5.0 (2) · 9.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 52 min

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Reviews for city walk hiking trails in Essex

No reviews available for Harwich International Port to Dovercourt Walk.

Lawerence Langosh avatar

Benfleet Downs and Hadleigh Country Park via Saffron Trail

PlateauTrailmaster90 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Hollis Mertz avatar

The Flitch Way from Braintree

CragFrontier73 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Stanford le Hope to Chalkwell Walk.

Jolene Schultz avatar

Castle Park Loop - Colchester Town

RoverSummitscout23 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Essex

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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