Parks, reserves and open spaces
Discover Braintree District’s beautiful parks, gardens and nature reserves, from tranquil woodland trails and wildlife-rich habitats to expansive country parks and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation or a family day out, the district's green spaces offer something for everyone throughout the year.
Daws Hall Nature Reserve
Henny Road, Lamarsh, CO8 5EX
A 25-acre nature reserve dedicated to environmental education, with open days, seasonal events and holiday activities including pond dipping, minibeast hunts, den building and whittling, alongside walks, talks and workshops on bats, wildflowers and fungi.
The reserve is only open on the days listed on their website.
Flitch Way
Braintree, CM77 7FS
The former railway line at Flitch Way offers the perfect terrain for walkers, runners, cyclists and horse riders alike.
The flat path runs for fifteen miles from Braintree station to Start Hill near Bishops Stortford and is an important greenway and wildlife corridor.
For most of the way it provides a safe traffic free environment. There is much to see and enjoy including plentiful wildlife, countryside views and traces of our industrial heritage.
The Booking Hall Café at Rayne provides the perfect pit stop too. The old Victorian railway station serves freshly baked homemade cakes, sandwiches and delicious drinks.
Great Notley Country Park
Great Notley, CM77 7FS
Set within 100 acres of open space, Great Notley Country Park is home to Sky Ropes, a fun, family-friendly high ropes adventure course, as well as Essex's longest play trail.
Young adventurers can jump, swing, slide, crawl and climb their way around 1.2km of exciting play equipment, including giant seesaws, swing scales, rope climbers, slides, forts and a large sand play area.
Beyond the play attractions, the park offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, with scenic walking routes, a fishing lake and colourful wildflower meadows to explore.
The park is also a popular destination for a wide range of outdoor activities, including birdwatching, walking, cycling, fishing, horse riding, football, picnicking and kite flying.
Halstead Public Gardens
Trinity Street, Halstead, CO9 1JA
Dating back to 1901, Halstead Public Gardens is a beautifully maintained Victorian park in the centre of town. With its ornamental gardens, mature trees, pond, traditional bandstand and inclusive play area, it provides a peaceful place to relax, play and enjoy community events.
Protected for future generations and cared for by local partners, the gardens remain one of Halstead's most cherished attractions.
Markshall Estate
Marks Hall Road, Coggeshall, CO6 1TG
An estate with 200-acres of stunning arboretum and gardens, as well as a further 2,000 acres of ancient woodlands and tenanted farmland. Enjoy a year-round events programme, stunning walks and family-friendly adventures.
There is also a lovely café tearoom serving food and refreshments.