Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Our Top 5 Walks in Rural Essex

On a crisp winter’s day in Essex, there’s nothing better than pulling on your walking boots and heading outside for a brisk winter walk to discover our county’s beautiful and varied landscape. The temperatures have dipped, and the days are much shorter, meaning it’s even more important than ever to make the most of our limited daylight hours. Check out our guide to Essex’s finest winter walks below…

Our Top 5 Winter Walks in Rural Essex

Cudmore Grove Country Park

Take a wild winter walk at Cudmore Grove Country Park. This nature reserve consists of over 102 acres of fascinating coastal landscape, overlooking the Colne and Blackwater estuaries. Discover awe-inspiring views, sandy beaches, salt marshes, rolling grasslands, meadows, and interesting history during your winter day out at Cudmore Grove. Explore the miles upon miles of family-friendly footpaths around the site, including our favourite sea wall route which leads you along the estuary and grazing marshes. A huge variety of wildlife and wildfowl can be seen during the winter months, as well as the stunning orange cliffs that date back over 300,000 years!

Danbury Country Park

If you’re looking for an accessible winter walk, look no further than Danbury Country Park. This historic country park boasts 45 acres of Grade II listed parkland and gardens, providing the perfect base for a shorter or more accessible, yet still exceptionally scenic, winter stroll. Set in the remains of the 13th Century Danbury Palace, you will find glistening lakes, ancient woodland, wonderful wildflower meadows and fascinating historical features during your day at Danbury. Take the path around the lakes, through the formal lawned garden and down to the Ice House, or opt for the woodland route that ventures through ancient trees to reach the wildflower meadow. You’re guaranteed to see some wonderful winter wildlife, too!

Markshall Estate

Uncover 1000 years of history, admire elegant landscaping, explore amazing ancient woodland and take a trip around the world at the 200-acre Markshall Estate arboretum. Holding world-class importance and bringing together some of the most unique tree species from all over the globe, Markshall is the perfect place for a brisk winter stroll. Take a trip around Europe, Asia, North America, and the Southern Hemisphere during your day at Markshall, making sure to look out for the 200 exotic eucalyptus trees. The Wild Woodland area is fantastic for kids, with plenty of hidden mushrooms, fairy houses, faces and shapes to find.

Mersea Island

Always wanted to spot a red squirrel? Well, now’s your chance! With two distinct areas to explore, Mersea Island makes for the ideal winter’s day out with your family or friends. You have more chance of seeing red squirrels on East Mersea than anywhere else in the UK, as these little creatures are positively thriving here. On the other side of the island, colourful beach huts decorate the shores of West Mersea, brightening up any dull winter’s day. The beach is dog-friendly all year round, with sailing boats and paddleboarders often frequenting the island during the colder months. You can witness some spectacular sunrises and sunsets from the island, too!

Abberton Reservoir

Abberton Reservoir is a renowned wetland site of international importance for wildfowl. Up to 40,000 ducks, swans, geese, and other water birds flock to the reservoir’s shallow muddy flats each year, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities. The top seven species include Wigeon, Teal, Mallard, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Coot and Black-headed Gull. Winter sees the return of the Smew, Goldeneye and Golden Plover, as well as many rare birds that pass through on their migration journeys. There are three separate bird hides which provide ample opportunity to witness the wildlife, as well as offering panoramic views across the magical waters.

Our Cosy Cabins in the Essex Countryside

Browning Bros is home to two luxury lakeside cabins in the Essex countryside, providing the perfect base for a cosy break with your family, friends, or significant other this winter. We still have some availability remaining at Water Lily Lodge and Kingfisher’s Nest this November and December – click here to book your winter escape today!