Historic Essex Hike - Coggelshall Circular via River Blackwater - 16km /Moderate

Join us as we escape to the quiet Essex countryside on this scenic 16.6 km circular walk from Kelvedon Station to the historic village of Coggeshall and back.

Start: Kelvedon Station
Distance: 16.6 km / 10.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 111 m
Difficulty: Grade 2/5 – Moderate
Duration: Approx. 4.5–5 hrs walking plus breaks
Accessible By Train: Yes
Terrain: Farm tracks, open fields, riverside paths, woodland edges, and historic village lanes
Date & Time: Meet: 9.30am | Finish: Around 3pm
Price: £12.50 P/P Event (plus meetup fee OR pay by CARD)

Details:
Expect a varied mix of peaceful farmland, tucked-away hamlets, and riverside walking — plus some of the region’s finest heritage architecture. We begin by heading south from Kelvedon, through open farmland and past Felix Hall, looping through the hedged paths of Leapingwells and Storey’s Wood.
The route then curves west, passing Curd Hall and quiet green lanes toward Coggeshall Hamlet, before entering the beautiful historic village of Coggeshall.
As we arrive, we pass the striking St Peter-ad-Vincula Church — a large Grade I listed parish church — before continuing through the heart of the village.
You’ll have a bit of time here to explore, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the heritage setting, with its timber-framed buildings and charming atmosphere.
From there, the route loops south to explore the remains of Coggeshall Abbey, a former 12th-century Cistercian monastery, and follows a peaceful stretch beside the River Blackwater before returning across scenic farmland to Kelvedon. The walk is mostly flat with gentle undulations, and a mix of wide tracks, grassy field paths, and a few short road sections.

Highlights:
- Historic market village of Coggeshall, with nearly 200 listed buildings
- Grade I listed St Peter-ad-Vincula Church
- Free time to explore Coggeshall or enjoy a snack
- The 12th-century Coggeshall Abbey ruins and tranquil riverside section
- Gentle countryside walking past Curd Hall and Felix Hall

Meeting Point:
Station Entrance Kelvedon Station, Station Road, Kelvedon, Colchester CO5 9NP

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. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](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, and participants must be over 18.
Our events are advertised on other platforms, the number of "guest" booked on include attendees from other platforms. If the walk is full, you can join the website waiting list here

Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)

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