The river Roach in Essex
A moderate walk (riverside) in Essex, England, about 17.40km (10.81 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 5:00h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
17m (55ft)
Descent
17m (55ft)
Max. Elevation
20m (65ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
34m (110ft)
Start & End
Rochford
Distance
17.40km
(10.81mi)
(10.81mi)
Duration
~5:00h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Maps
Created by Anonymous Walker on 11 Sep 2013
This long walk explores the countryside around the river Roach in Essex. The first half passes through the flat countryside found in these parts, and the return leg hugs the river bank, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
This route came from the book 'Walks in the country near London', which I can highly recommend, and has more details about the history of the places you pass on route.
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- $walk->POI array(0)
Waypoints
OS Grid TQ871904
Start the walk in Rochford.
OS Grid TQ880906
Head east through the town, past the college, where you pick up the footpath.
About 0.89 km (~0.55 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ888907
Head up Mill Lane, past the Cherry Tree pub, taking the footpath just beyond it.
About 0.80 km (~0.5 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ898917
The path leads to Great Stambridge. Cross the road to take the path heading east on the other side.
About 1.40 km (~0.87 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ908913
Here you reach the river Roach, a tidal river that has plenty of birdwatching opportunities. For a shorter walk, follow the Roach Valley Way along the river back to Rochford.
About 1.09 km (~0.68 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ913912
Otherwise take the track heading east past Barton Hall. This was the home of Sir Richard de Brito, one of the knights who killed Thomas a Beckett in Canterbury.
About 0.50 km (~0.31 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ929919
Through the marshy landscape of eastern Essex to Stannetts, past Stannetts Creek.
About 1.70 km (~1.06 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ943922
This village, near the river, is a perfect place for a half-time pint. Head to the Plough and Sail pub: www.theploughandsail.co.uk. Once refreshed, head to the boatyard on the river.
About 1.44 km (~0.89 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ946920
Navigation is easier on the second half of the walk; just follow the river.
About 0.41 km (~0.25 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ937912
Follow the river to Blackedge Point. The mud flats along the river are feeding grounds for many birds, so bring your field guide and binoculars.
About 1.23 km (~0.76 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ906911
Follow the river back to Barton Hall, then turn left to stay along the river bank.
About 3.04 km (~1.89 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ913906
The Roach Valley Way follows the river's meanders on the way back to Rochford.
About 0.80 km (~0.5 miles) from 
OS Grid TQ901905
Continue past Great Stambridge Hall as you near the town once more.
About 1.20 km (~0.75 miles) from 
Rochford againOS Grid TQ876900
Back in Rochford after a long walk; if you have time, take a peek at Rochford Hall, near the station, home to the Boleyn family.
About 2.51 km (~1.56 miles) from 
