8 perfect parks for top dog days out

With over 300 acres at their paws Belhus Woods Country Park is perfect for pooches looking to take their owners on a long walk.

The park combines ancient woodlands, meadows and lakeside walks and there’s a fenced in dog training and agility area that's accessible and free to use.*

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in the tranquil surroundings of Belhus Woods.  After a walk, why not treat your canine to a bowl of water from the café?

*The enclosed fenced dog area is available on a Saturday however the agility training area is not available on a Saturday afternoon.

Alicia's Obedience Dog Training offer expert-led puppy training, pet gundog training, and follow-on classes at Belhus Woods. www.facebook.com/share/1CaLwEgifs/?mibextid=wwXIfr

With meadows, beaches and seawall paths, Cudmore Grove Country Park in East Mersea is a unique destination for a traffic free dog walk.

Let your furry friend burn off energy on the beach, meander among the grasslands in the meadow or stroll along the seawall path

As a nature reserve of Special Scientific Interest, Cudmore Grove is a flat site with several miles of walking paths and aces of space that circle and cross the park. It’s perfect for pets and people to pootle around, whatever age you both might be.

Treat yourself and your dog to a day out in the historic Danbury Country Park.

With 45 acres of Grade II listed parkland, you and your hound can ramble through woodlands, around the lakes and through the wildflower meadow.

With well-maintained pathways, traffic free routes and plenty of benches to take a rest if you’re both feeling in need of a break, Danbury is the ideal destination for dogs and humans of all ages.

Located near Braintree, Great Notley Country Park has over 100 acres of open space for you and your pooch to get going on a great walk.

Whether you both take a stroll around the lakes, plod around the grassland pathways or wander through the small woodland, Great Notley is a favourite destination for those with a four-legged friend.

It's also ideal for with children, with a play trail of over one kilometre, there is plenty for every member of the family.

Home to both a one and nine kilometre walking route, Hadleigh Country Park is ideal for those dogs who like a short or long walk.

With rolling hills, woodlands and a sea wall walk, Hadleigh is great for people and pooches who like changing landscapes, heritage and stunning views over the Thames Estuary.

After you and your friend have competed your walk, both of you can stop off for refreshments at the Salvation Army Hub café.

As a 300 acre country park, Marsh Farm in South Woodham Ferrers is a haven for wetland birds, wildlife and walking enthusiasts.

Surrounded on three sides by the River Crouch, Clements Green Creek and Fenn Creek, Marsh Farm is a great place for dogs that enjoy coastal and riverside walks.

A great place for solitude and contemplation, Marsh Farm has approximately 10 miles of public rights of way and permissive footpaths throughout the country park for you and your canine friend to enjoy.

Be careful to keep your furry friends under control on the lead near any nesting birds and grazing animals and respect the wildlife at the park.

Take a trip and delve into the deep, dark woods at Thorndon Country Park, home to the famous The Gruffalo trail and discover miles of tranquil walking routes and a dog agility training area* in the South of the park.

With natural and clearly marked paths traversing Thorndon North’s beautiful ancient woodlands, dogs and people can enjoy the foliage.

With plenty of places to take a break you can meet with friends and explore Thorndon throughout the year, experience the changing seasons.

*The dog agility area is in Thorndon South.

Please be aware that landscape restoration works including woodland management are currently taking place at Thorndon South in the Menagerie and Mill Wood areas.

Boasting spectacular views, wide open spaces, rolling hills and historic parkland, Weald Country Park is perfect for wayfaring wanders and their pets.

While Weald is famous for its deer park and Stick Man trail, the park offers much more for dogs and their owners.

With over 500 acres, it’s delightful for dogs with pathways through the woods, around the lakes and a number of networks and routes that they can wander along.

There’s also a number of taps and dog bowls throughout the park for your dog to find refreshment.

Discover more dog walks at the Essex Country Parks.

Entry to all country parks is free, although car parking charges apply. An Explorer Pass provides free parking at all Essex Country Parks, costing just £85.00* per year.

*As of 1 April 2025.