Essex Walks
In the heart of Hockley Woods, these walks explore the largest ancient woodland in Essex, covering more than 130 hectares of beautiful forest.
From a shorter, family-friendly circuit rich in wildlife and ancient trees, to a longer route that ventures deeper into the woods for those wanting to stretch their legs, the walks offer peaceful paths and a welcoming pub nearby for a well-earned finish.
Download the Essex Walks App to follow these routes with real-time GPS navigation.
Walk information
A beautiful short family-friendly walk around the largest ancient wild wood in Essex that spans over 130 hectares.
Explore the abundance of wildlife, trees and ancient plant species. This walk is a real treat for families and nature lovers.
Based on 3 user ratings
A very popular walk
Real feedback from people who have completed this walk using the Essex Walks app.
First-hand experiences
Our first walk using the app and very easy to follow and use.
Lovely walk through the woods. We had fun jumping over the stream. Lots of options for other footpaths to follow if you want to go off and explore.
Walk information
This longer route is an extension of the first route and pretty much covers most of the woodland in Hockley Woods.
This is the choice for those of you that want to stretch your legs a bit more on your woodland walk and explore deeper into the forest.
Based on 6 user ratings
A very popular walk
Real feedback from people who have completed this walk using the Essex Walks app.
First-hand experiences
Really enjoyed this walk with our two dogs. We chose to complete the longer walk and so glad we did! A lovely bench to sit on half way round where we sat and looked at the amazing green fields view! Would highly recommend. We didn't stop at the pub but the garden looked lovely and well kept.
Lovely walk through the woods . It is paid parking but very reasonable we paid 60p for the two hours . Dry and sunny today but imagine it would be muddy in places when wet .
Navigate the walks
It's like sat-nav, but for footpaths.
Choose a walk and follow the pointer showing your live position on the route map, so you always know you're on the right path.
The app works without a phone signal, so you can keep following the route wherever the walk takes you.
Explore the area
0.75 miles
2-4.75 miles
2.5-3.5 miles
2.25-7.25 miles
1.75-6 miles
1.75 miles
1.25-3.25 miles
1-9 miles
1.5-3 miles
4.25 miles
5.5-9.25 miles
3-6 miles
1-2.5 miles
0.5-1.25 miles
2-4 miles
Explore the county
See where the walks start, explore the area and tap a pin to find a route for your next adventure.
Search Essex walks