Autumn Hike – Paper Mill Lock & River Chelmer – Essex Countryside – 20km
Details
🗓 Date: Saturday 29 November 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – approx. 3:30 PM
📍 Start/Finish: Hatfield Peverel Railway Station, CM3 2DS
🚶♀️ Distance: 19.8 km
⛰ Elevation Gain: 257 m
⏱ Duration: 6 hrs 30 mins including breaks
💪 Grade: Adventure Women Level 3 – Challenging
👣 Leader: Erika
💷 Price: £12.50
🌿 About the Hike
Join us for a gorgeous autumn hike exploring one of Essex’s most peaceful and scenic countryside routes. This circular 19.8 km walk takes you along riverside paths, woodland trails, and quiet farmland around Hatfield Peverel — with plenty of classic rural views along the way.
We’ll follow the picturesque Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation, pass through the historic village of Little Baddow, and enjoy one of the loveliest waterside spots in the county: Paper Mill Lock. Expect narrowboats, tranquil river scenes, gentle woodlands, and a real mix of terrain to keep things interesting.
A brilliant route for anyone who loves varied scenery, canal-side walking, and a full day out in nature with great company.
🌟 Highlights
• Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation: Peaceful towpath walking with boats, wildlife, and big open views.
• Paper Mill Lock: A much-loved riverside gem — perfect mid-walk stop.
• Little Baddow: A charming historic village surrounded by woodland and countryside.
• Variety: A rewarding mix of riverside paths, woodland tracks, farmland, and classic Essex charm.
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What to Wear and Bring:
• Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
• Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
• Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
• Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
• Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
• Public toilets may not be available on the route.
Sign-Up Form
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign-up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety.
Form link: https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058
Preparation and Fitness
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.
Our Guides
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.
Additional Information
• Dogs are not permitted on our walks.
• Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group. Participants must be over 18.
• Walk Grades: https://adventurewomen.co.uk
Cancellation & Credit Policy (Day Experiences)
All bookings are non-refundable.
• Over 4 weeks before the event: You may transfer or receive credit towards another event.
• 4–1 weeks before the event: No refund, but a transfer/credit may be offered only if your space is filled.
• Less than 1 week before the event: No refund or transfer available.
All transfers/credits are discretionary and subject to availability.
Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs.
Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs.
About Us
Adventure Women UK is an outdoor pursuits club that empowers women to explore, grow, and connect through shared adventures. Our community welcomes women from all backgrounds, offering experiences that inspire, challenge, and uplift.