Maldon to Woodham Mortimer: Fields, Lanes and Pubs

Discover historic landmarks, peaceful countryside and two characterful country pubs on this rewarding full day walk from Maldon. Leaving the town centre, pause at the remains of St Giles’ Hospital, founded in the 12th century for people with leprosy, before entering the leafy surroundings of Maldon Wick Nature Reserve and following part of a former railway trackbed. Field paths, woodland and quiet lanes lead to the Hurdlemakers Arms at Woodham Mortimer for a well-earned lunch. The afternoon brings more tranquil countryside, with the possibility of a brief refreshment stop at The Cats in Woodham Walter. Beeleigh Falls, where four waterways meet among historic locks, weirs and floodgates, provides another highlight before the walk returns to Maldon beside the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation.

Start time: 10:30am

Distance: 10.0 miles

Time: Allow up to 6 hours, including a one-hour lunch stop at the Hurdlemakers Arms

Route information:

Route Length Category – Long

Accessibility of route – The route includes one flight of steps and two stiles. Footpaths could be muddy after wet weather, so stout footwear is required.

Start and finish – Outside Maldon Library, Carmelite House, White Horse Lane, Maldon, CM9 5FW.

Parking – Parking is available in Maldon’s town-centre car parks, with White Horse Lane Car Park being the closest to the meeting point. Please check the current charges and payment arrangements and ensure that you pay for sufficient time to cover the full walk.

Toilets – Public toilets are available in White Horse Lane, close to the starting point. Toilets are also available to paying customers at the Hurdlemakers Arms and The Cats.

Public transport – Maldon High Street is served by several local bus routes. The nearest bus stop is All Saints Church, a short walk from Maldon Library. Please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling.

Lunch – There will be a one-hour lunch stop at the Hurdlemakers Arms, with arrival expected at approximately 12:15pm. Lunch and refreshments are not included in the Festival and must be paid for by walkers.

Anyone wishing to order lunch must telephone the pub directly on 01245 225169 at least 24 hours before the walk. When ordering, please explain that you are taking part in the Saltmarsh Coast Walking Festival walk on Friday 25 September.

The Special Festival Walkers’ menu includes:

Deep-fried cod and chips with peas or salad – £18.50

Scampi and chips with peas or salad – £18.50

Sausage and mash with onion gravy and peas or seasonal vegetables – £18.95

Tuna baguette – £10.25

Ham and mustard baguette – £9.95

Hot beef and wholegrain mustard baguette – £9.95

Cheese, tomato and onion baguette – £9.75

Refreshments – If time permits, there may also be a brief refreshment stop at The Cats in Woodham Walter. Any refreshments purchased are at the walker’s own cost. Please note The Cats only accepts cash payment. No cards/electronic options

Circular route – Town streets, nature-reserve and field footpaths, woodland, quiet country lanes, riverbank paths and the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation towpath.