Essex: the perfect place to explore

Essex is known for its diverse landscapes and it has countless opportunities for outdoor activities. A study by Essex County Council found that more than 60% of residents enjoy outdoor activities and the popularity of nature walks and hiking trails highlights a growing appreciation for Essex's natural spaces. Below, we have included some examples of the most popular places to visit this summer. 

Essex Adventures South Weald adventure hike.

Maldon Promenade Park

This scenic park sits along the banks of the River Blackwater and offers stunning views of the surrounding waterways. The park features a variety of flora and fauna, picnic areas, and even a splash park for families to enjoy.

Maldon Promenade Park is known for the iconic Hythe Quay. The moored boats create a beautiful backdrop for photos. The nearby Hythe Nature Reserve also has several walking trails and is home to various bird species, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. Remember to take your binoculars to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

Abberton Reservoir

For those who love water-based activities, Abberton Reservoir is an ideal destination. Located near Colchester, this expansive reservoir is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The surrounding area offers beautiful walks and opportunities to see a variety of water birds.

The visitor center provides informative displays about the local wildlife and habitat. Additionally, walking paths around the reservoir allow you to appreciate the stunning views and peaceful surroundings.

Abberton Reservoir showcasing water wildlife

One of the highlights of a visit to Abberton is the seasonal migration of birds. The reservoir hosts a large population of wintering wildfowl, making it a photo-friendly spot for nature photographers and enthusiasts.

Mersea Island

Mersea Island, located off the coast of Essex, features sandy beaches, marshlands, and rolling countryside. It’s an excellent spot for nature walks, cycling, and enjoying a beach day. Take the time to explore the coastal paths that provide beautiful views of the sea and opportunities for birdwatching.

The island is also renowned for its seafood, especially oysters. 

Hanningfield Reservoir

Hanningfield Reservoir is a tranquil space that hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including swans, ducks, and other waterfowl.

The highlight of Hanningfield Reservoir is its observation platform, which is perfect for birdwatching. With the right timing, you might catch a glimpse of migrating birds or local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Epping Forest

Epping Forest was our inspiration when we founded Essex Adventures; it offers a wealth of hiking trails, public footpaths and rolling hills, and we love to explore them with our community. Whether you're an avid hiker or just enjoy a good picnic in nature, at Essex Adventures we love to introduce you to some of the best locations in Epping Forest and beyond. You can find our upcoming hikes here.

See you soon,

Jack