Essex Hidden Gems! Unique and Unusual Family Friendly Walks
- Essex Parks
- 31 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Essex offers more than just the usual countryside strolls and coastal paths. Families looking for something different will find plenty of unique and unusual walks that combine nature, history, and fun. These walks provide keep children engaged and adults interested, making them perfect for family outings. If you want to explore Essex beyond the typical routes, here are some standout options that promise adventure and discovery for all ages.
These family friendly walks feature a mix of coastal paths, saltmarshes and woodlands. Many of them are muddy at this time of year so please dress appropriately.
If you like a park with some history, head to Coal House Fort in Tilbury. Built in the 19th century, the Fort is closed but this is still an interesting place to explore. Parking is FREE at Coalhouse Fort, making it a great free, family friendly day out in Essex.
Check out the impressive military defences and head down to the riverside to watch the large boats docking nearby.
There is a flat, buggy friendly pathway all the way around the Fort, which is also a great destination for crabbing!
There is a small, basic play park with a climbing frame with a slide and some swings. The playground is enclosed. This is NOT a destination playground and it needs a big update, but there are enough other interesting things to do at this park to make it worth a visit.
Two Tree Island is an Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve located on the edge of Leigh-on-Sea. The Island is very dog friendly and there are lots of grassy walking trails.
There is a wildlife hide for little nature spotters. The hide has stunning views across the waters. Definitely a welly walk as the marshes can become quite boggy and the trails are not buggy friendly.
If you are looking for somewhere quiet for your walk, head to RSPB Wallasea Island. The remote, Rochford nature reserve is a magical landscape of marshland, lagoons, ditches and sea. You can walk along the seawalls to see the saltmarsh, mudflats and lagoons.
Did you know that in the Summer months you can pick up the Burnham Ferry from Wallasea Island to Burnham-on-Crouch? The passenger ferry takes you from Essex Marina on Wallasea Island to Burnham! In Burnham can explore Riverside Park, which is home to several great play areas.
The majority of trails on Wallasea Island do not allow dogs, to protect nesting birds. It is also worth noting that there are also no facilities at Wallasea Island.
Saltmarsh Coast Trail - Burnham on Crouch
The Saltmarsh Trail is a 75 mile trail through Essex where the Maldon District meets the sea. The Saltmarsh Trail runs through many Essex towns including Tollesbury, Goldhanger, Osea, Heybridge, Maldon and Burnham-on-Crouch. The Saltmarsh Trail is famed for its great bird watching opportunities.
If you feel like experiencing part of the trail, we recommend exploring the section that passes through Burnham-on-Crouch, as there are family friendly facilities and attractions nearby. There is plenty for children to do in Burnham-on-Crouch. including a beach themed playground and an orienteering course.
Set in Harlow, this nature reserve is also a bit of a hidden gem. There is so much for children including den building, minibeast hunting, walking trails and nature hides.
The main train at Parndon Woods is around 1.5km in length and takes you through the woodland. It takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour to complete. For us it was the perfect length with children. There are further trails if you would like a longer walk. The pathway is mainly grassy/leafy with some wooden bridge footways. The trails are hilly but passable with a sturdy buggy.
Stroll along the canal path at Heybridge Basin! Start your walk at the Daisy Meadow car park. The canal is home to a variety of boats and lots of wildlife.
There is also a small playground area. The small, enclosed playground has a climbing frame with slide, swings, climbing equipment, a roundabout, spinning equipment, climbing rope pyramid and ride on equipment. There are a few pubs and restaurants along the route overlooking the River Blackwater.
Buggy Friendly Walks in Essex
If you are looking for more family friendly walk recommendations check out our guide: Buggy Friendly Walks in Essex! Finding the perfect walking routes in Essex that suit children and are easy to navigate with a buggy can be a challenge. Families want safe, enjoyable paths where little ones can explore nature without the hassle of rough terrain or steep hills. This guide highlights some of the best toddler and child friendly walking routes in Essex.
Tips for Enjoying Family Walks in Essex
To make the most of these unique walks, consider the following tips:
Plan for breaks: Many of these walks have picnic areas or spots to rest. Bring snacks and water to keep everyone energized.
Dress for the weather: Essex weather can change quickly. Waterproofs and sturdy shoes are a good idea, especially on nature trails.
Bring binoculars or a magnifying glass: These tools make wildlife spotting more exciting for children.
Check accessibility: Some paths may have uneven terrain. Choose routes that suit your family’s needs.
Engage children with stories: Share interesting facts about the places you visit to keep kids curious and involved.
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