Best attractions and places to see around Springfield include a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region features significant waterways like the River Chelmer and Hanningfield Reservoir, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore areas with historical connections and enjoy scenic viewpoints. This diverse environment provides various points of interest for those seeking both natural beauty and local heritage.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
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Saffron Trail – Countryside to coast through rural Essex
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Road Cycling Routes around Springfield
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St. Mary's Church in Great Dunmow is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing visitors ample time to explore its 13th-century architecture and serene atmosphere [1]. For a more intimate experience, consider attending the Thursday 9:30 AM Holy Communion service, which is followed by a fellowship gathering with coffee and conversation [2]. Additionally, the church hosts a 'Church Mice Toddler Group' every Wednesday at 10:00 AM, offering activities for young children and a chance for parents to connect [3]. Before your visit, it's advisable to check the church's official website or contact the parish office to confirm current opening hours and event schedules. [1] https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/2803/find-us/ [2] https://www.stmarysgreatdunmow.org.uk/services/churchservices [3] https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/2803/ [4] https://www.stmarysgreatdunmow.org.uk/contact
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You can enjoy lovely views of Hanningfield Reservoir from this road on the south side. The reservoir is framed by beautiful woodlands and meadows, making it a favourite spot for walkers in the Essex area.
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Beautiful route! Just wear long running leggings as there are a few nettles on the initial smaller trails.
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A picturesque lock on the River Chelmer and also the home to a tea room should you need a it stop. This is a round the halfway point on the River Chelmer's 14 miles journey from Chelmsford to the Heybridge Basin where it meets the sea. For more information please see the website www.papermilllock.co.uk
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The track between Hammonds Road in the west and Great Graces in East is known as Grace's Walk, after Lady Alice Grace. She is said to have walked down this path on her way to drown herself at Sandon Brook, the little river closeby. Listen carefully as her footsteps have been heard as well as sightings of Lady Alice on horseback wearing a cloak.
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The River Chelmer flows for 65km from Debden to the Blackwater Estuary and passes only through the county of Essex. It was previously known as the River Baddow, but its name was wrongly changed on the assumption that Chelmsford was named after a river crossing over the River Chelmer. In fact, Chelmsford was named after the landowner, Cēolmǣr. It is a beautiful river to walk along with a real feeling of peace and tranquility so close to the city.
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Springfield is rich in natural beauty, particularly around its waterways. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the River Chelmer, which flows for 65 km and offers tranquil walks. Another prominent natural feature is the Hanningfield Reservoir Causeway, providing lovely views of the reservoir, surrounded by woodlands and meadows, making it a favorite spot for birdwatchers and walkers.
Yes, Springfield and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. You can visit the Scenic church in Writtle, St. Mary's Church, known for its 13th-century architecture. Additionally, explore Grace's Walk, a historical trail between Hammonds Road and Great Graces, named after Lady Alice Grace.
The area around Springfield is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking. For hiking, explore trails like the 'River Chelmer – River Chelmer Swimming Spot loop' or 'Croxton's Mill loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Breakfast Spot – Romans Place, Writtle loop' or 'Hanningfield Reservoir – Totem Pole loop'. Gravel biking options include 'Bridleway 223/12 loop' and 'Essex Way Trail – High Easter Cricket Field loop'. You can find more details on these activities at the hiking guide, cycling guide, and gravel biking guide for Springfield.
Absolutely! Many attractions cater to families. The Hanningfield Reservoir Causeway offers beautiful views and is suitable for all ages. Paper Mill Lock features tea rooms and is a pleasant spot for a family outing by the river. The River Chelmer itself provides peaceful walking opportunities for families, and the Scenic church in Writtle also welcomes families.
For refreshments, the Paper Mill Lock is an excellent choice, featuring tea rooms where you can enjoy a break. This picturesque spot on the River Chelmer is a popular stop for visitors.
Visitors particularly enjoy the lovely views of Hanningfield Reservoir from the causeway. It's framed by beautiful woodlands and meadows, making it a favorite spot for walkers and birdwatchers in the Essex area. It's also recognized as a protected haven for wildfowl and a biological site of special scientific interest.
Yes, the Hanningfield Reservoir Causeway is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a good road surface and lovely views of the reservoir, making it suitable for visitors with mobility considerations.
Absolutely! The Hanningfield Reservoir Causeway is an excellent location for birdwatching. The reservoir is a protected haven for many species of wildfowl and is listed as a biological site of special scientific interest, offering good bird spotting opportunities from the causeway.
Paper Mill Lock is a picturesque lock on the River Chelmer, serving as roughly the halfway point on the river's 14-mile journey from Chelmsford to the Heybridge Basin. It's a popular spot not only for its scenic beauty but also for its tea rooms, offering a pleasant stop for those exploring the river.
Yes, Grace's Walk has a unique local legend. The track is named after Lady Alice Grace, who is said to have walked this path on her way to drown herself at Sandon Brook. Local folklore suggests her footsteps have been heard, and sightings of Lady Alice on horseback wearing a cloak have been reported near the bridge.
You can observe historical architecture, particularly at the Scenic church in Writtle. St. Mary's Church is a notable example, showcasing 13th-century architecture that provides a glimpse into the region's past.
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes available. For example, you can find routes like 'Hiking loop from Springfield' (3.6 km) and 'Flowering Tree by the River – Barnes Mill Lock loop from Springfield' (6.2 km). These are perfect for a relaxed stroll. More options can be found in the hiking guide for Springfield.


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