Are you in search of the best walks in Chelmsford?
Well, you have come to the right place!
With a plethora of picturesque hikes and leisurely strolls, Chelmsford is a great place to get outdoors and explore.
From the Chelmer and Blackwater Canal to Hylands Park, here are the 15 best walks in Chelmsford!
I’m an experienced hiker and I’m excited to share these amazing spots with you.
Let’s get started!
Chelmer and Blackwater Canal
Take a stroll along the historic Chelmer and Blackwater Canal and experience beauty and wildlife like never before! This stretch of canal, which is just over eight miles long, is one of the most picturesque and peaceful walks in Chelmsford.
The canal cuts through the Essex countryside, offering views of rolling hills, marshes, and nature reserves. Along the way, you can spot wildlife such as kingfishers, herons, and even deer. The canal also has a rich history, with the remnants of old mills and weirs still visible.
This beautiful walk is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the natural beauty of Essex. Enjoy the warm sunshine, the sound of birdsong, and the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.
With its breathtaking views and abundance of wildlife, the Chelmer and Blackwater Canal is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
Great Notley Country Park
Experience the beauty of Great Notley Country Park with a leisurely stroll around the lake. This park is located near the town of Braintree and is a great spot for a day out.
With more than 500 acres of woodland, meadows, and lakes, there is plenty to see and explore. Take a walk around the lake and admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including red kites, ducks, geese, kingfishers, and even a few otters. There are plenty of paths and trails to choose from, so you can find something suitable for any skill level.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk in the woods or a challenging hike, Great Notley Country Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of the park and enjoy the scenery!
Hylands Park
Discover the history of Hylands Park, a local landmark just a few miles from Chelmsford. This stunning park, once owned by the Chew family, is full of natural beauty and history.
Take a stroll around the lake and explore the ancient woodlands, with a variety of trees, plants, and wildlife. The park also has a café, which serves delicious refreshments and is the perfect spot to relax and take in the views.
The park is a great spot for a leisurely walk, with a range of paths that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are also plenty of activities for children, such as an adventure playground and mini golf course.
Hylands Park is a great place to take a breath of fresh air and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a picnic with friends, or a day of fun for the family, Hylands Park is the perfect destination.
Danbury Country Park
Nestled just outside of Chelmsford, Danbury Country Park offers a tranquil getaway with lush woodland trails and tranquil ponds.
With its more than 500 acres of land, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. I love taking a walk along the lake and through the woodlands, admiring the wildflowers and spotting the wildlife. The park also has a large playground and plenty of other activities to keep the whole family busy.
The park is also home to a number of historic sites, including the ruins of a 13th-century priory. There are also a few miles of trails that take you through the park’s woodlands and fields, offering spectacular views of the countryside.
All in all, Danbury Country Park is an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or a more adventurous walk. With its abundance of wildlife, trails, and historic sites, the park offers something for everyone.
Central Park
I’m a big fan of Central Park, not only because it’s situated right in the heart of London, but also because of all the wonderful activities and features it offers.
The park is a true urban oasis, with lush green spaces, winding pathways, and plenty of ways to entertain and amuse the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or some fun family activities, Central Park has something for everyone.
The paths and trails in Central Park are great for exploring, with plenty of places to stop and take in the views. There are plenty of benches where you can sit and take a break, or take some pictures.
The park also has a pond, a playground, and a cafe, so there’s something to keep everyone entertained. I always enjoy exploring the paths and discovering something new in Central Park, no matter how many times I’ve been there.
The Promenade Nature Reserve
Head to the Promenade Nature Reserve for a truly breathtaking experience!
Nestled within the heart of the city, this idyllic spot is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll through nature or an invigorating hike, the Promenade Nature Reserve is sure to provide the perfect escape.
As you meander through the trails, you’ll be surrounded by a variety of flora and fauna.
The area is home to a variety of birds, including ducks, geese, swans, and more.
The area also boasts an abundance of species of trees, including oak, ash, and birch.
For the ultimate outdoor experience, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the observation deck.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure, the Promenade Nature Reserve is the ideal destination for a memorable walk.
The Wid Lakes
Discover the Wid Lakes for an unforgettable adventure!
From kayaking and canoeing to fishing and swimming, these scenic lakes offer an array of activities perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
With miles of shoreline and an abundance of wildlife, the Wid Lakes offer a unique experience like no other.
I’ve been exploring the lakes for years now, and I can confidently say that it’s one of the most beautiful places in Chelmsford.
Whether I’m in a kayak, canoe, or just along the shore, I’m always entranced by the beauty of the crystal clear waters and the lush greenery.
The Wid Lakes offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with plenty of opportunities to get some much-needed fresh air and exercise.
It’s truly a magical experience, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Panshanger Park
After exploring the Wid Lakes, I’m now ready to explore Panshanger Park, a great spot for a walk in Chelmsford.
This park has an extensive 500-acre area filled with wildlife, rivers, lakes, and even a few ruins. From the moment you enter, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size of the park and the beauty of the landscape.
The paths are well-trodden and easy to navigate, making it the perfect place for an experienced hiker or a beginner.
The park is also home to some of the most stunning wildlife in the area, with foxes, badgers, deer, and birds of prey all in abundance.
The park is also home to some ruins from a time long past, including a Jacobean house, an old chapel, and a Victorian icehouse. These ruins are a great way to experience a bit of history while enjoying a nice walk.
There are also plenty of benches and picnic areas to take a break and enjoy the views.
With its abundance of wildlife, historic sites, and well-worn paths, Panshanger Park is a must-see for anyone looking for a great walk in Chelmsford.
Baddow Hall Wood
Next on my walking tour of the Chelmsford area is Baddow Hall Wood, a tranquil woodland with winding trails and breathtaking views. It’s a great spot to explore, with plenty of light trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
I was blown away by all the wildlife I encountered, from the woodland birds singing above to the deer that were grazing on the lush green grass. The trails are varied, and some of them lead up to a viewpoint where you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
I took a long, peaceful walk along one of the trails, and it was the perfect way to spend a sunny day in the woods. The area is well-maintained, with plenty of benches and picnic spots, so I was able to take a break and enjoy a snack before heading back on my way.
Baddow Hall Wood is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and take in the beauty of nature.
The River Chelmer
After a peaceful stroll through Baddow Hall Wood, another great place to visit in Chelmsford is the River Chelmer.
This beautiful river runs through much of the county, offering many opportunities for a scenic walk.
I always enjoy starting my journey near the town centre, where the river is lined with flower beds, parks, and other green spaces.
As I walk along the path, I’m surrounded by a wide variety of wildlife, and the sights and sounds of nature.
The river eventually leads me to the outskirts of Chelmsford, where I can explore the surrounding forests and meadows.
Here, the riverbanks are home to a variety of birds and fish, and the views are spectacular.
I often take a break to sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the area, and its unique beauty.
The River Chelmer is one of the best walks in Chelmsford, offering a peaceful and refreshing experience.
Rettendon Common
Rettendon Common is a great place to visit for those looking for an invigorating outdoor experience. The common is a stunning area of countryside, with plenty of wildlife and a variety of different walks to choose from. It’s quite easy to lose yourself in the beauty of the area, with its lush meadows and ancient woods, and being just a few miles from Chelmsford, it’s an ideal spot for a day out.
The walks around the common are varied enough to please all kinds of walkers. There’s the long, easy-going riverside walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll, as well as more challenging hikes through the woods and hills. With plenty of benches and picnic spots along the way, it’s easy to make a day of it and really get the most out of your visit.
There’s plenty to explore and discover, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful and peaceful walk.
High Woods Country Park
If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging than Rettendon Common, take a trip to High Woods Country Park for a truly invigorating experience.
High Woods Country Park is a stunning area of ancient woodland and open heathland. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, so you can expect to see some interesting creatures along the way.
Plus, the park is located near the River Chelmer, so you’ll get to enjoy some stunning views as you make your way through the woods.
The High Woods Country Park features a number of trails that are perfect for long walks or hikes. There are also plenty of benches and picnic spots to rest along the way.
It’s a great way to get some exercise, as well as take in the beauty of the area. Plus, with so much to explore, you’ll be sure to have an amazing time.
Broomfield Park
Nestled in the heart of Chelmsford, Broomfield Park is an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll. It’s a great place to take a break for a while, to soak in the beauty of nature and to relax.
With 96 acres of parkland to explore, there’s plenty to explore. The park is filled with a variety of landscapes, from lush meadows to ancient woodlands. The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, from birds to deer and other animals.
Alongside the meandering pathways, you’ll find plenty of benches and picnic tables, perfect for enjoying a leisurely lunch in the outdoors. Make sure to take a look at the old Victorian boating lake, which is full of carp and other fish.
You can also enjoy a range of activities, from bird watching to fishing. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an afternoon of adventure, Broomfield Park is a great place to spend the day.
Admirals Park
Admirals Park is the perfect place for an afternoon of adventure, with plenty of trails to explore and activities for the whole family. The park offers a variety of terrain, from flat grassy areas to steep hills, so there’s something for everyone.
And the views from the top of the hill are amazing—you can see all the way to the Thames Estuary and beyond.
There’s also a great playground, a café, and picnic benches for a rest stop.
For a more adventurous experience, you can take a canoe or kayak trip down the river, or go mountain biking along the trails.
Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have an incredible time at Admirals Park.
Hanningfield Reservoir
Soak in the beauty of Hanningfield Reservoir, where you can explore its vast waters and experience a peaceful respite in its tranquil setting.
The reservoir is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike, with plenty of trails to choose from.
It’s a great spot for wildlife watching, with varieties of birds, such as grebes, diving ducks, and waders, often seen around the water.
The reservoir also provides a picturesque backdrop for a picnic or a spot of fishing.
With a variety of activities, Hanningfield Reservoir is an enchanting spot that is sure to delight and invigorate the senses.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon by the water or an invigorating outdoor adventure, Hanningfield Reservoir is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!
Conclusion
I’ve explored some of the best walks in Chelmsford, and each of them has its own unique charm.
From the peaceful beauty of the Hylands Park to the stunning views of the Hanningfield Reservoir, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, Chelmsford has you covered.
So don your walking boots and get ready to explore the great outdoors – you won’t be disappointed!