Blenheim Park

The walk around Blenheim Park takes you through proper Essex countryside, which is rarer than you'd think given how built-up the county is. It's a working nature reserve rather than a manicured spot, so expect overgrown paths, bird hides, and the sort of quiet you don't get near Benfleet town centre.

The park's main draw is the wetland habitat - marshes, ponds, and reed beds that attract serious numbers of waterfowl and birdwatchers. If you're into that sort of thing, bring binoculars. If you're not, it's still a decent walk with enough green space to feel removed from the suburbs. Most people do it in under two hours, though you can easily stretch it to three if you're dawdling.

Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming after the first quarter-hour - there's no playground or visitor centre to break things up. But if your children can handle a proper countryside walk without constant entertainment, it works well. Walkers and nature enthusiasts will get proper value here.

If you're staying at Essex Glamping nearby, Blenheim Park makes an easy morning visit before heading elsewhere. It's free, which helps. The best time is spring when migrating birds pass through, though autumn runs a close second. Summer can feel a bit flat. Avoid wet weather unless you want to wade - the paths turn into bog pretty quickly.