Search a hike or location

search
Best coastal hiking trails in Essex
Share:

Best coastal hiking trails in Essex

Looking for trails where the ocean’s your soundtrack? These coastal routes let you hike with a sea breeze in your hair, waves lapping beside you, and unbeatable views of the horizon.

Here are some great trails to explore in Essex.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Arlesford Creek from Brightlingsea

Essex, England · star 5.0 (2) · 10.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 3 min

2

Easy

Bradwell on Sea Circular

Essex, England · star 5.0 (1) · 10.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 6 min

3

Easy

Jaywick to Naze Beach Walk

Essex, England · star 4.0 (1) · 16.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 18 min

4

Easy

Canvey Island Shore Walk

Essex, England · star 0.0 (0) · 8.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 45 min

5

Easy

Benfleet to Southend on Sea Walk

Essex, England · star 5.0 (9) · 12.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 41 min

6

Easy

Coopers Beach Holiday Park and Cudmore Grove Country Park Loop

Essex, England · star 4.0 (2) · 8.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 43 min

7

Easy

Harwich International Port to Dovercourt Walk

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

8

Easy

Benfleet Downs and Hadleigh Country Park via Saffron Trail

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

9

Easy

Tollesbury Wick Marshes Loop

Essex, England · star 4.0 (2) · 9.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 56 min

10

Easy

Grays Beach Riverside Park and Wharf

Essex, England · star 4.0 (6) · 5.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 13 min

Show more hikes

Reviews for coastal hiking trails in Essex

avatar

Arlesford Creek from Brightlingsea

RoverSkiwanderer19 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Peter Aldridge avatar

Bradwell on Sea Circular

Beekeeper · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Start in Bradwell or Bradwell Waterside. Flat walk along the sea defences. Very exposed on windy or wet days. Goes past St Peter’s on the Wall and turns inland a few miles further south across farmland and back to Bradwell. The Green Man Inn at Bradwell Waterside makes a good finish .

Earnest Heidenreich JD avatar

Jaywick to Naze Beach Walk

NomadForestrunner26 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Canvey Island Shore Walk.

Shaunte Russel avatar

Benfleet to Southend on Sea Walk

StriderBacktracker31 · 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.

More trails in Essex

by difficulty

by type

by activity