Flatford Mill - Stour Valley Path - East Bergholt Circular

Joe Jackson

You need to log in as a member of Walkingworld to access the details for this walk and have an active subscription. Please join, or log in above if you are already a member.

Flatford Mill needs little introduction, as the National Trust have kept this site perfect and accessible for all visitors to enjoy. Its rare beauty makes this an absolute highlight on any visit to Dedham Vale or the surrounding area. This walk starts off at the National Trust Car Park and passes the shops and stunning RSPB Wildlife Garden and follows the river out towards the coast for a short way. Flatford Mill is passed and photographs must be taken of this rare jewel in Essex. The route continues alongside Cattawade Marshes, another RSPB reserve with many rare birds flying around, including marsh harriers. The route follows a short section of road before heading off towards East Bergholt via footpaths and the country lanes leading you back towards Flatford.

The final stretch of this lovely walk takes you along the top of a small hill, offering the walker a beautiful panorama of this part of Dedham Vale and then heads across the meadows by the meandering river back to Flatford.

England - East England - Suffolk - Dedham Vale

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Flowers, Gift Shop, Great Views, Mostly Flat, National Trust, River, Toilets, Wildlife
9/13/2023 - Sarah Green

Up to point 4 was straight forward and we enjoyed the mill history. From point 4-5 is on a very busy road with little or no verge and sharp bends making it very unsafe to walk. We wouldn't recommend the walk from a safety point of view because of the amount of road walking with little or no verges (point 9 also). It's a shame as from point 14 back to the mill again it was interesting and scenic. We couldn't see how the route could be adapted safely without adding quite a few miles on. Sorry but this wasn't for us.