A lifestyle website have put together some of the best spots in Essex for a Boxing Day walk.
Muddy Stilettos have named a number of picturesque strolls to enjoy with all the family in the aftermath of Christmas Day.
There are many great walks which allow for everyone to reminisce on the events of the day before and wrap up warm to take on a stellar walk.
The website have put together seven of the best options and descriptions of why you should choose them.
The options
Beeleigh Falls, Maldon
Muddy Stilettos said: "First on our Essex Boxing Day walks is Beeleigh Falls, home to water falls, weirs and locks that control the meeting point where the rivers Chelmer and Blackwater meet the sea.
"Expect the circular walk to take at least three hours to complete - it’s 7.5 miles.
"And wear your wellies – it’s uneven and muddy but takes you through stunning countryside scenes, as well as the seawall and riverbank, passing by an historic mill and listed buildings.
"Binoculars might also be called for – you can spot all kinds of wildlife thanks to the mix of fresh and salt water."
The Big Walk, Epping Forest
Muddy Stilettos said: "Feeling ready to take on the The Big Walk?
"Heads up, it’s 14 miles through Epping’s ancient woodland, so don’t be tempted into leaving after a leisurely start, this calls for an early start so you’re home before the sun sets.
"Kicking off at Manor Park station, the route takes you through well-trodden paths, grassland and woods.
"Along the way enjoy the open landscape of Wanstead Flats, with its duck-filled Jubilee Ponds.
"Added to that is High Beach and its ancient oak pollards, as well as beech and oak trees.
"You’ll then pass one of two Iron Age Camps, before ending up at Epping station.
"And don’t worry of you’re not feeling up to a full 14-miler after a day of excess, it can be split into smaller walks which are under 2 hours each."
Frinton-on-Sea to Walton-on-the-Naze
Muddy Stilettos said: "The stroll from Frinton to Walton is a nice easy one – flat and family-friendly, taking around 45 – 60 minutes to walk the two mile route along the promenade.
"With its colourful beach huts, this stroll from Frinton to the wide beaches of Walton are what walks were made for.
"This is a coastal delight you won’t want to miss, especially when the waves roll in and the sun shines.
"If you fancy stretching your legs a while longer you can head inland from Walton to follow the footpath along Walton Mere, or visit Naze Tower of walk through Hamford Water Nature Reserve for an even longer walk."
Danbury Common to Lingwood Common, Danbury
Muddy Stilettos said: "One of three walks you can take around the area, this Danbury Common to Lingwood Common route, is 1.5 miles and will take around an hour.
"It’s perfect for little legs, but you could combine it with the Blakes Wood to Lingwood Common walk - 2.5 miles and the Lingwood Common to Blakes Wood walk - a 3.5 mile circular walk, if everyone is onboard.
"Whichever combo you choose you’ll be able to enjoy the wooded glades, wetlands and open heathland, while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife.
Southend-on-Sea to Leigh-on-Sea
Muddy Stilettos said: "There are many possibilities when it comes to walking anywhere between Shoeburyness and Leigh-on-Sea, but the stretch from Southend to Leigh-On-Sea is a family-friendly stroll.
"Start at seafront attraction Adventure Island, and make your way west along the prom.
"Then, when you’re clear of the casinos and crowds, you’ll spy a series of artisan beach cafés that sit under the arches.
"From here, this three-mile potter threads through boatyards that clink and clatter in high winds. You’ll also spot cobbled lanes and gorgeous deserted coves.
"Once you hit Old Leigh, head beachfront for a healthy fish platter at The Peterboat."
Tollesbury Wick, Maldon
Muddy Stilettos said: "A crowd pleaser with the sailing set, the Tollesbury Wick Marshes route launches at the King’s Head Pub, Church Street and hugs the seawall for unrivalled views of the Blackwater Estuary.
"Oystercatchers, terns and little ringed plovers may thread their way with you to Shinglehead point, where ribbons of green signal Rolls Farm.
"There’s a 8.9 mile route, which should take around 4.5 hours, or a shorter one that’s 5.8 miles - just under three hours of walking.
"If you’re opting for the shorter version, there’s a footpath that loops back round to Church Street where you can sink a Dry Jan tipple at The Harbour View Bistro & Bar."
Witham River Walk, Witham
Muddy Stilettos said: "Following the River Brain for two miles, the meadow-rich Witham River Walk is teeming with wildlife and often throws up sightings of muntjac.
"If you’re lucky you’ll also spy otters floating downstream.
"Beginning at Chipping Hill Bridge, drop onto the river trail and head south, crossing a small bridge before reaching the duck pond.
"Pause under a fringe of weeping willows, then make the final leg to Whetmead Nature Reserve, where perfect sunset vistas of the River Blackwater await."
For more information, visit Essex Boxing Day walks | Muddy Stilettos | Muddy Stilettos
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