Dog Walking
From long riverside rambles to woodland walks, discover the best parks to walk your dogs
Dog Walking
The Essex Country Parks provide a wide variety of landscapes perfect for walking your furry friends. Take long riverside rambles or let your pets run free through the trees.
When walking your dogs in the parks you must abide by the rules, ensuring your pets are always under control, and make sure to pick up after them.
Also take note as to areas where they must be on the lead due to wildlife, play areas, and grazing animals.
Read more about how to visit the country parks responsibly with your pooches.
And discover our 2026 'pup stars' competition to win Pets at Home vouchers!
Explore some Top Dog Walks in our blog to inspire your visits.
Belhus Woods Country Park
Over 300 acres in South Essex, Belhus Woods Country Park combines ancient woodland, kid's play area, meadows and lakes with a visitor centre and café.
- South Ockendon, Aveley, RM15 4XJ
Cudmore Grove Country Park
A nature reserve of over 102 acres of unique coastal landscapes and habitat and heritage features overlooking the Colne and Blackwater Estuaries.
- Broman's Lane, East Mersea, CO5 8UE
Danbury Country Park
Featuring 45 acres of grade II listed park and gardens with lakes, ancient woodland, wildflower meadow and historic features. Ideal for walking, families and picnics with friends.
- Woodhill Road , Chelmsford, Danbury, CM3 4AW
Great Notley Country Park
Home to Essex's longest play trail and Sky Ropes, Great Notley Country Park offers the perfect family day out.
- Braintree, Great Notley, CM77 7FS
Hadleigh Country Park
Hadleigh Park offers something for everyone – idyllic countryside, cycling and walking trails and magnificent views.
- Chapel Lane, Benfleet, SS7 2PP
Marsh Farm Country Park
A 300-acre country park adjacent to the River Crouch, offering scenic walks with fantastic views over the country park and the river.
- South Woodham Ferrers, , Chelmsford , CM3 5WP
Thorndon Country Park
Colourful woodlands, birdlife, open parkland, fishing and the Gruffalo Trail make Thorndon Country Park the perfect destination for nature lovers, dog walkers and families alike.
- Brentwood, Warley, CM13 3RZ
Weald Country Park
Famous for its deer park and Stick Man trail, Weald boasts spectacular views and space, covering over 520 acres of woodland, wildflower meadows and open grassland.
- Weald Road, Brentwood, CM14 5QS