Wickham Bishops and John Doubleday's Sculpture Workshop

Enjoy a rewarding circular walk through the attractive villages and peaceful countryside surrounding Little Braxted, Great Totham and Wickham Bishops. Quiet lanes, field paths and rural tracks link picturesque churches, distinctive Arts and Crafts architecture and far-reaching views across the Essex landscape. Along the way, discover some of the stories, buildings and hidden details that give these villages their special character. The highlight is a rare 45-minute visit to the studio of celebrated local sculptor John Doubleday, creator of Maldon’s iconic statue of the Anglo-Saxon hero Byrhtnoth. This special visit offers a fascinating glimpse into the sculptor’s working environment and the skill, imagination and craftsmanship involved in creating memorable public art. Afterwards, walkers can round off the experience with an optional lunch or refreshments at the welcoming Braxted Bakery.

Start time: 10:00am

Distance: 4.8 miles

Time: 3 hours 15 minutes, including stops and a 45-minute studio visit, plus optional lunch or refreshments after the walk

Route information:

Accessibility of route – The route includes two stiles, one of which has a large step up. Paths may be muddy or uneven depending on the weather, so stout footwear is required.

Start and finish – The Braxted Bakery, Witham Road, Little Braxted, CM8 3ET.

Toilets – Available at The Braxted Bakery.

Refreshments – Optional lunch or refreshments may be purchased at The Braxted Bakery after the walk. Please allow time to pre-order your lunch at the Bakery prior to the start of the walk. They are not included in the Festival and are at the walker’s own cost.

Circular route.

Surface – Public footpaths, enclosed paths, meadow and woodland paths, golf-course paths, tracks and sections of road walking.

Parking – On arrival, please look out for members of the Festival team, who will direct you to the designated parking area. Please follow their instructions and park considerately.

Public transport – The nearest bus stop is Freebournes Road in Witham, approximately one mile from the Braxted Bakery. Please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling and allow sufficient time for the walk from the stop.

Route – Medium.