Spending quality time with a pet serves many physical and mental benefits. And we’d argue that a dog walk is one of the very best ways to reap the rewards! Essex is very lucky to be home to many beautiful spots for a good walk. But where to go? Here are some ideas…
1. Jury Hill
A walk to the top of Jury Hill is around 8 kilometres. You’ll enjoy plenty of open countryside and on a clear day, you can see across the Essex countryside - in the distant East, you might be able to spot the O2 and Canary Wharf, and Kent and Thames to the west.
Don’t be put off by the hill element of this walk, it’s only 63 metres and the view is most definitely worth it!
2. Danbury Lakes
If you’re looking for a quicker walk - that still offers beautiful views - Danbury Lakes is a great option. You’ll also be joined by plenty of ducks and swans too!
The lakes are located within a grade II listed park - Danbury Country park. The park includes lakes, ornamental gardens, meadows and ancient woodland.
3. Mersea
Did somebody say dog-friendly beach walks all year round? Mersea did! This seven square island has much to offer - including country parks, restaurants and pubs. We’d recommend taking a circular stroll through Cudmore Country Park where you’ll find open grassland, a gorgeous sandy beach, and in winter flocks of Brent geese can be seen!
4. Hylands Park
574 acres of parkland - it’s a dog’s dream! This is the perfect spot for dogs who can be let off their leads. They’ll be able to run for miles among stunning gardens, lawns and an ornamental pond. But remember to put your dog back on their lead once they’re near the historic Hylands House and the Stables Visitor Centre.
If you need a rest, there’s a café with two outdoor areas where you can sit with your pet.
5. Weald Country Park
If you’ve got a large dog that needs tiring out, take a trip to Weald Country Park. Located in Brentwood, this spot will allow you and your dog to explore more than 500 acres of meadows, woodland, grassland and lakes.
But if that’s not enough, there are plenty of hills to blow off some extra steam - and you’ll be rewarded by some spectacular views too.
There are also water bowls and taps dotted around the site to keep you and your pooch hydrated.
If you’re a fan of wildlife, you’re not going to be disappointed. This is a great place to admire cows, deer, herons, ducks and lots of water birds.
We hope you and your furry friend’s enjoy testing out this list! Feel free to DM us your dog walking pictures via our Instagram or Facebook channels.
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