Copford hall footbridge

The footbridge at Copford Hall is a proper gateway into Essex's quieter side - a wooden crossing that takes you straight into a nature reserve where the rushing traffic of Braintree feels miles away. It's not a dramatic landmark, but that's rather the point. You'll find yourself on a path that winds through woodland and open grassland, with decent chances of spotting kingfishers if you time it right along the water. The bridge itself is unassuming, sturdy, the kind of place where locals actually walk their dogs rather than snap photos for social media. Allow an hour for a gentle loop, maybe two if you're the sort who stops to identify birds and wildflowers. Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best light and the fewest other people about.

It works brilliantly as part of a camping weekend in the area - Hill Farm Campsite is only a mile and a half away, making this an easy morning jaunt before breakfast. Readers Field Glamping, a shade further off, makes it a decent afternoon walk from your bell tent. The reserve itself is free to access, managed by locals who actually care about keeping it low-key. Worth the effort if you're after some genuine peace and fresh air rather than another heritage site or theme park. The sort of place that reminds you why you came to Essex in the first place.