Welcome to Essex Area Ramblers, formed in 1984, is one of 59 similar county organisations across the country operating between Ramblers’ Central Office and local Ramblers’ groups. Essex offers some of East of England's most beautiful country and coastal walks that are easy to get to. There are 18 Ramblers’ groups within the Essex Area, which cover parts of North and East London as well as the county itself.
The Area coordinates all requests for diversions and extinguishment of footpaths and planning issues involved with these. It also acts in conjunction with groups on any public inquiries they may arise from these. The reporting of footpath problems, following them up and working to clear them, is another element of the work involved in ensuring paths are kept open. The Area also works closely with local politicians at all levels, County Council Footpath Officers and other organisations such as Network Rail, Department of Transport and Natural England to safeguard and improve the path network.
Each group organises one or more walks every week. These can be between 4 and 12+ miles, circular, linear or in a figure of 8. Some groups organise walking weekends and walking holidays, at home and abroad. The two Friends of Essex groups offer shorter, 3 to 5 mile walks, while Trek Essex caters for a younger age range. Groups also organise footpath surveys + clearing, stile and bridge building + waymarking.
A group walk is great way to get some exercise in a sociable and leisurely-paced atmosphere. Come and join one of the group's walks and see what it is all about. Area do not lead walks. You are welcome to attend up to three walks before joining the Ramblers. Once a member you can walk with any group in the country, receive discounts at outdoor shops, and help Ramblers defend Britain's unique rights of way network.