Heybridge: Nature by the River Blackwater

Join local wildlife author John Buchanan for an enjoyable, easy-going circuit around Heybridge Gravel Pits. Beginning beside the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation, the route passes the recently refurbished sea lock before continuing along the seawall, with wonderful views across the River Blackwater towards Northey Island and Maldon’s historic waterfront. Wildlife will be a central theme throughout. John will help the group discover the birds that depend upon the estuary, whose international importance is recognised through its designation as both a Special Protection Area (SSSI) and a Ramsar site—a wetland of international importance. September is an especially exciting month for migration, when flocks arrive from Iceland and Scandinavia to spend the winter around the Blackwater. Bring binoculars if you have them, but don’t worry if not—John will have a telescope, giving everyone an opportunity to enjoy close-up views of the birds encountered along the way.

Start time: 10:30am
Distance: Approximately 3 miles
Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, excluding the optional lunch

Route Information:

Route Length Category – Short

Accessibility of route – Footpaths could be muddy after wet weather, so stout footwear is required.There are steps and slopes on and off of the sea wall.

Start and finish – Daisy Meadow Car Park, Heybridge Basin, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4RW. What3words: ///directly.organ.centuries

Parking – Parking is available at Daisy Meadow Car Park. Please ensure you pay for sufficient time to cover the walk and, if applicable, the optional lunch afterwards.

Toilets – Customer toilets are available at the pubs in Heybridge Basin.

Public transport - Heybridge Basin is served by local bus services. The nearest bus stop is Heybridge Basin, a short walk from Daisy Meadow Car Park. Please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling.

Equipment – Please bring binoculars if you have them. The walk leader will also bring a telescope for the group to share.

Lunch – On reaching Heybridge Basin near the end of the walk, walkers who wish to have lunch may remain there and choose from several nearby hostelries, including The Old Ship, The Jolly Sailor, The Lock Tea Room and the Bargemaster’s Cabin. Walkers should make their own dining arrangements and may return independently to Daisy Meadow Car Park, which is only a few steps away. We recommend reserving a table directly with your venue of choice.

Circular route – Navigation towpath, river and seawall paths, and tracks around the gravel pits.