As an outdoor enthusiast, I’m always looking for new places to explore. Clacton is home to some of the best walks in the region, offering both hikes and leisurely strolls. From the shoreline of West Cliff Promenade to the picturesque Little Clacton Circular Walk, there’s something for everyone.
I’ve put together this list of the 15 best walks in Clacton so you can make the most of your outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out with family and friends or an invigorating morning hike, you’re sure to find the perfect walk for you.
West Cliff Promenade
You’ll love the stunning views on the West Cliff Promenade! This popular walkway in Clacton-on-Sea is a great place to take in the fresh sea air and admire the gorgeous coastline.
The walkway stretches over a mile, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. It’s the perfect place to take a picnic and let the kids run wild. The promenade is also ideal for cyclists, as it’s got a wide path lined with benches.
It’s an ideal spot to watch the sun go down in the evening, with some beautiful views of the North Sea. It’s also a great spot for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of birds to spot.
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby so you can stop for a bite to eat or a drink, or take a break in one of the many benches and enjoy the stunning views.
Holland-on-Sea Coastal Walk
Discover the blissful beauty of Holland-on-Sea Coastal Walk, a serene stroll along the Clacton coastline. This five-mile route offers breathtaking views of the North Sea, as well as glimpses of some of the area’s most beautiful wildlife.
Take a leisurely walk along the beach, and you’ll come across many species of birds, seals, and even dolphins. The footpath winds through a variety of landscapes, including dunes, salt marshes, and woodlands.
Along the way, you’ll find a number of attractions, including the historic Holland Haven Nature Reserve, where you can discover the area’s fascinating history.
If you’re looking for a more challenging experience, you can take Holland-on-Sea’s cliff walk. This route takes you up and down the steep cliffs, with stunning views of the North Sea and the Clacton coastline. Be sure to keep an eye out for the area’s unique wildlife, as you can often spot deer, foxes, and badgers.
There are plenty of stops along the way, including the iconic Martello Tower, which offers amazing views of the coast. With its stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife, Holland-on-Sea Coastal Walk is one of the best walks in Clacton.
Little Clacton Circular Walk
Take an enchanting journey through Little Clacton’s countryside on the Little Clacton Circular Walk.
This delightful walk takes you through the countryside and along the riverbanks of the Stour, boasting picturesque views of rolling hills, meadows, and wildlife.
The entire route is around five miles in length, and is a moderate walk with a few steeper portions in the middle.
During the walk, you’ll encounter several notable points of interest, such as the Stour Valley Nature Reserve, the historic Clacton-on-Sea Pier, and the stunning Thorpe Hall.
You’ll also have the chance to take in views of the surrounding area from elevated points, and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the countryside.
At the end of the walk, you’ll find yourself back in the centre of Little Clacton, having experienced the beauty of the surrounding area.
Clacton to St. Osyth Walk
Explore the picturesque countryside of Little Clacton on the Clacton to St. Osyth Walk, a tranquil journey along the River Stour.
This 4-mile walk takes you from the centre of Clacton towards the historic village of St. Osyth, with plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As you pass through the Essex countryside, you’ll come across a variety of quaint villages and old churches. In addition, you’ll get to take in some of the local wildlife, with plenty of birds and other animals to spot along the way.
The walk is a great way to enjoy some peace and quiet, and is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
As you reach the end of the walk, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view of St. Osyth and its historic priory.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Clacton to St. Osyth Walk is sure to provide an enjoyable experience.
Point Clear to Jaywick Walk
Stroll along the tranquil shores of Point Clear and take in the stunning views of the coastline on the Point Clear to Jaywick walk.
This 3.5 mile round trip takes you along the edge of the Tendring Peninsula and offers sweeping views of the sea and the Essex countryside.
As you make your way along the path, you’ll pass by the historic Clacton Airfield, before continuing on to the picturesque village of Jaywick.
Along the way, take in the sights of the local wildlife, including a variety of birds and wildflowers.
The area’s also home to many small, quaint cottages, providing a charming contrast to the natural beauty of the landscape.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, the Point Clear to Jaywick walk has something to offer for everyone.
Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this stunning area, and make sure to take plenty of photos to remember your experience.
Clacton to Frinton-on-Sea Walk
Meander along the picturesque coastline of Clacton and Frinton-on-Sea on the Clacton to Frinton-on-Sea walk.
This walk is a great way to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area, while getting a good dose of fresh air and exercise.
The walk is approximately five miles long and takes around two hours to complete.
It starts at the Martello Tower in Clacton and ends at Frinton-on-Sea.
Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to admire the beautiful scenery, breathtaking views of the sea, and unique wildlife that inhabit the area.
The walk is perfect for those who appreciate nature, as well as those who’re looking for a more leisurely stroll.
With plenty of places to rest and reflect, this walk is a great way to spend a day outdoors.
Walton-on-the-Naze Coastal Walk
Discover the stunning beauty of the Walton-on-the-Naze coastal walk, and treat yourself to a breathtaking experience of the area’s natural beauty.
This scenic 6-mile route takes you along the Essex coast, with views of the surrounding marshes and the North Sea.
Along the way, you’ll be able to spot some of the area’s diverse wildlife, from seabirds to small mammals.
The route starts in the town of Walton-on-the-Naze, and takes you along the path of the old railway track, before crossing the Naze and ending in the coastal town of Frinton-on-Sea.
Along the way, you’ll be able to explore the rich history of the area, with plenty of ancient sites and ruins to discover.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, and is a great way to explore the area, take in the fresh sea air, and enjoy the stunning views of the Essex coastline.
Jaywick to Great Clacton Walk
Moving on from Walton-on-the-Naze, the next great walk in Clacton is the Jaywick to Great Clacton walk.
This is a 2.2 mile walk, with stunning views of the coastline and wildlife. It begins at the north end of Jaywick Sands, and follows the sea wall along the beach and over the River Colne.
As you wander along the beach, you’ll get to see the picturesque Clacton Pier, before heading inland towards the village of Great Clacton.
Along the way, you’ll get to see plenty of wildlife, such as birds, rabbits, foxes, and even the occasional deer.
The walk takes roughly 1-2 hours, depending on the pace you take. It is a great way to experience the beauty of Clacton and its surrounding areas.
Once you reach Great Clacton, you can enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the many cafes and pubs along the seafront.
Harwich to Clacton Walk
Take a scenic stroll from Harwich to Clacton and bask in the stunning coastal views of Essex.
This 8.5-mile walk along the Stour and Orwell Estuary is a perfect way to spend a day in the great outdoors.
With a mix of countryside and coastal views, the route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights.
Start your journey in Harwich, where you can take in the historic town before heading off along the estuary.
As you make your way along the walk, you’ll pass a number of picturesque villages, such as Ramsey and Fingringhoe, with plenty of charming pubs and cafes to stop for refreshments.
Along the route, you’ll also come across some of the most beautiful seascapes that Essex has to offer.
When you finally reach Clacton, you can take in its beautiful pier, sandy beach, and bustling shopping streets.
This walk really is a must for anyone looking to get out and explore the beauty of the area.
Tendring Peninsula Coastal Walk
Explore the stunning Tendring Peninsula Coastal Walk and take in the gorgeous natural landscape of Essex. This 10 mile walk takes you along the picturesque coastline of the county, with plenty of spots to take in the scenery, such as Holland Haven Country Park and Clacton-on-Sea.
Along the way, you’ll see many impressive historical sites, such as the 16th century fort at the mouth of the River Stour. For the more adventurous, the walk can be extended to take in the nearby coastal towns of Walton-on-the-Naze and Frinton-on-Sea.
The coastal scenery is truly breathtaking, with the chance to spot many species of birds and even seals, dolphins, and porpoises in the waters. You’ll also get to explore some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, such as Great Oakley Beach and St Osyth Beach.
The Tendring Peninsula Coastal Walk is a great way to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of Essex, and a great way to spend a day in the great outdoors.
Harwich to Walton-on-the-Naze Walk
Discover the stunning beauty of Essex’s Harwich to Walton-on-the-Naze Walk, a delightful journey through lush countryside and along the breathtaking coastline.
From Harwich’s historic port to the shoreline of Walton-on-the-Naze, this walk is ideal for anyone looking to take in stunning views and get some fresh air.
The walk takes just over four hours, but can be broken up into stages if needed. You’ll be treated to a variety of natural wonders, including the gorgeous Stour Estuary and the iconic cliffs of Walton-on-the-Naze.
During the walk, you’ll also pass through charming villages, such as Kirby Cross and Little Oakley, as well as a variety of wildlife and bird watching opportunities.
With plenty to see and do along the way, this is an unforgettable journey where you can take in the beauty of Essex’s countryside and soak in the breathtaking views of the coastline.
Clacton to Great Holland Walk
Experience the natural beauty of Essex for yourself on the Clacton to Great Holland Walk, an invigorating journey through stunning countryside and along the stunning coastline.
The Clacton to Great Holland Walk is a 9-mile trail that passes through picturesque villages, countryside, and the beautiful beaches of the Tendring Peninsula.
The walk begins in Clacton-on-Sea, the largest town in Tendring, and takes you along the coastal path to the village of Great Holland.
Along the way you will pass through a variety of landscapes, from the wide-open spaces of the fields to the quaint villages of St. Osyth and Little Clacton.
You will also have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, and you can either take it at your own pace or join one of the guided tours offered by local tour companies.
The route is well signposted and easy to follow, and you can take a break at any point along the way to enjoy a picnic or take a few photos.
At the end of the walk, you will have plenty of time to explore the vibrant village of Great Holland, with its traditional pubs and shops.
So, if you’re looking for an enjoyable and scenic walk, the Clacton to Great Holland Walk is the perfect choice.
Frinton-on-Sea to Walton-on-the-Naze Walk
Take a journey along the spectacular Essex coast on the Frinton-on-Sea to Walton-on-the-Naze Walk, a thrilling 8-mile route with breathtaking views of the sea and countryside.
This route follows a section of the Essex Coast Path and is full of diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, making it an ideal way to explore the area.
The route begins in Frinton-on-Sea, a charming seaside town with a long promenade and plenty of amenities.
From here, it passes through fields and wetlands, offering stunning views of the estuary and sea beyond.
Along the way, you’ll also pass through the picturesque villages of Kirby Cross and Walton-on-the-Naze, giving you a chance to explore their unique character and history.
The route ends at the iconic Walton-on-the-Naze windmill, a great spot to take in the stunning coastal views and appreciate the beauty of the Essex coast.
Frinton-on-Sea to Kirby-le-Soken Walk
Continuing my exploration of the best walks in Clacton, my next destination was Frinton-on-Sea to Kirby-le-Soken. This walk takes you along the coast of the North Sea and is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s an easy walk with plenty of spots to take in the stunning views, and plenty of places to take a break and relax.
The walk itself starts at Frinton-on-Sea, with a fairly level walk along the road that leads to the beach. You’ll pass by the imposing Frinton Golf Club, and take a few detours to take in some of the amazing views of the coast.
As you reach Kirby-le-Soken, you’ll be rewarded with a lovely view of the estuary and the surrounding countryside. Along the way, there are plenty of pubs, cafes, and shops to explore, before you make your way back to Frinton-on-Sea.
St. Osyth to Thorrington Walk
Discover the beautiful landscapes of St. Osyth to Thorrington as you wander along the peaceful coastline.
This 6 mile walk is perfect for those who are looking for a leisurely stroll along the Essex coastline.
Admire the stunning views of the St. Osyth Beach and the nearby creeks, as you take in the salty sea air.
Along the route, you will pass by many picturesque villages, including St. Osyth, Point Clear, and Thorrington.
Throughout your journey, you will be able to spot some of the local wildlife, including myriad species of birds, and even the occasional seal.
Take a break in one of the quaint pubs or cafes, or make a stop at the St. Osyth Priory, one of the oldest religious sites in the area.
There’s plenty to see and do along this tranquil stretch of shoreline, so why not take a leisurely stroll and discover the secrets of the Essex coast?
Conclusion
After a long day of exploring Clacton’s best walks, it’s time to reflect on all the sights and sounds of the journey.
From the stunning vistas of West Cliff Promenade to the tranquil beauty of the Hollands-on-Sea Coastal Walk, Clacton has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a nice stroll or an adventurous hike, Clacton has it all.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Clacton’s walks are sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience.
So grab your walking shoes and get out there to experience all that Clacton has to offer!