4 Romantic Park Walks in Essex

Park at Thorndon South and head towards Old Hall Pond. Enjoy the reflections, sounds and water birds in this beautiful spot.

Head through Ruin Wood and soak up the views at the top of Pigeon Mount and watch the sun set (although make sure to exit the car park at dusk!).

Plan your visit.

Please be aware of landscape restoration work taking place at Thorndon South during Winter and early Spring 2026.

It’ll be love at first flight if you visit Marsh Farm Country Park with your Valentine!

You’ll be wowed by the vast selection of birds – from Brent Geese, Egrets, Avocets, Curlew to Wigeons – there are plenty of resident and over wintering birds to see here.

Admire views over the Crouch Estuary as you stroll around the marshes. Don’t forget to grab a selfie with the sun glistening on the river.

Park in the car park and follow the footpaths adjacent to the river. Head left out of the car park as you face the river and take one of the many routes.

Plan your visit.

Whether you’re a keen walker or prefer to sit and admire nature, at Hadleigh Country Park you can choose from a 1km walking trail up to a 9km loop of the park.

From Chapel Lane car park, walk downhill until you reach the marsh and then turn left towards Hadleigh Castle. Follow the path until you reach the farm track, which will take you up to the castle.

You’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Thames Estuary and the historic remains of Hadleigh Castle. Soak in the views with a flask of hot chocolate or tea.

Plan your visit.

Head to the eastern end of Mersea Island and Cudmore Grove and you and your Valentine can feel sand beneath your feet/wellies.

Take an atmospheric walk along the beach filled with beautiful oyster shells. The beach and coast path offer impressive views across the Blackwater – an idyllic location to capture a lovely photo with your partner this Valentine’s Day.

During the winter months, the park is brimming with wildlife, from wading birds to large flocks of Brent Geese.

Don’t forget to look out for red squirrels – Mersea Island is one of the few places in Essex where they can be found.

Plan your visit.

If you like this, you may also like our 5 Best Winter Walks blog which you can read here.