Five of the best springtime walks in Essex to manage your mental health

With the stresses of daily life, the spring can provide the perfect time to dust off the cobwebs of winter and start looking after yourself that little bit better.

So many of us struggle with our mental health. You only have to look at the stats. One in four adults experience mental health problems each year, while it’s also believed that around 25,000 older people in Essex struggle with depression, while the number of people seeking alcohol addiction recovery in Essex is also significantly up.

While we all have different ways of looking after our mental health, getting out in nature and enjoying a walk when the weather’s nice cannot be underestimated. So, as we enter that period, here are five of the best springtime walks across Essex for you to escape and aid your mental health…

Dedham Vale and the Stour Valley

Often referred to as “Constable Country”, Dedham Vale is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that inspired some of John Constable’s most famous paintings. The walking routes here are both picturesque and steeped in heritage. A circular walk from Dedham to Flatford takes you along the River Stour, through meadows brimming with spring wildflowers. In April and May, you’ll see new lambs in the fields and hear the gentle buzz of bees among the blossom trees. The village of Dedham itself, with its historic buildings and quaint tearooms, is a delightful place to start or end your walk.

Epping Forest

Epping Forest is one of the oldest and largest woodlands in Essex, stretching from east London into the heart of the county. With over 2,400 hectares of ancient trees, lakes, and open glades, there’s no shortage of paths to explore. In spring, the forest comes alive with bluebells, wood anemones, and the fresh green of new leaves. The Oak Trail, a popular circular walk from Theydon Bois, is ideal for spotting wildlife such as deer and woodpeckers, and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life.

Thorndon Country Park and the Gruffalo Trail

Situated near Brentwood, Thorndon Country Park is a lovely place for a family-friendly springtime walk. The park is divided into north and south sections, with a mix of ancient woodland, flower-rich meadows, and open parkland. The spring months are perfect for spotting primroses and listening to birds in full song. For families with young children, the Gruffalo Trail in the North Park adds an extra layer of fun to the walk, with wooden sculptures of characters from the beloved book dotted along the route.

The Naze at Walton-on-the-Naze

For a breath of fresh sea air, head to the Naze peninsula on the north Essex coast. This unique coastal walk offers sweeping views of the North Sea, dramatic cliffs, and fascinating geology. Start at the Naze Tower and follow the circular trail through salt marshes, past the John Weston Nature Reserve, and along the beach. Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as migratory birds return and coastal plants begin to bloom. The area is also rich in fossils, making it a hit with curious children and amateur geologists alike.

Wivenhoe to Colchester along the River Colne

This peaceful riverside walk combines natural beauty with a touch of history. Starting in the picturesque village of Wivenhoe, with its pastel-coloured houses and working quayside, the path meanders along the River Colne towards Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town. The spring landscape is dotted with wildflowers, and the riverbanks teem with life. It’s a gentle, flat walk suitable for all ages, and can be enjoyed in either direction. In Colchester, finish your walk with a visit to the historic Castle Park or one of the many cafés in the town centre.