Landscapes for All
Wellbeing in Nature Walks
Wellbeing in Nature walks are our new Landscapes for All monthly Wellbeing walks in the Dedham Vale National Landscape, which supports people to improve their mental health and wellbeing by connecting with beautiful natural landscapes protected for nature.
Walking is much more than just exercise, it is a chance to unwind, meet new people, discover and connect with the beauty of our National Landscapes. Everyone is welcome on the Landscapes for All Wellbeing in Nature Walks.
Wellbeing Nature Walk groups are small (max. Group size 10 people) and inclusive and can link participants with further volunteering and activities organised by the
National Landscape team.
Our Wellbeing in Nature Walks are led by an experienced member of National Landscapes team so here is no need to plan your route. National Landscape staff have enhanced DBS certificates and have undertaken safeguarding and First Aid training.
Minibus pickup points are available from the Ipswich area for those that cannot travel independently.
Wellbeing in Nature Walks are also delivered in the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape if participants would like to join more sessions. More information is available on the website Wellbeing in Nature Walks – Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape (www.coastandheaths-nl.org.uk)
To book places on the Wellbeing in Nature Walks, contact Jenny Moss by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07514723515 or 01394 445 211. Alternatively, referrals can be made via the Suffolk Information Partnership for service users by going to the Suffolk Information Partnership website.
Upcoming Events
1 - Manningtree to Flatford
Date: 25th April 2024
Start time: 11am
Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Duration: Allow 3 hours (free time in Flatford)
Type: Linear
Terrain: Easy – Ground under foot fairly flat. This walk is mainly along footpaths. Due to there being a kissing gate this walk is not suitable for wheelchairs.
Meeting point: Manningtree Station, Station Approach, Manningtree CO11 2HH
Overview: It is approx. 2 miles walk to Flatford from Manningtree Station a long footpath. We will have some time at National Trust Flatford to take in the Landscape that inspired the famous artist Constable or simply enjoy the tranquillity of this area along the Stour River. We will return to Manningtree Train Station along the same 2 mile footpath. Walkers can access this walk by train or bus to Manningtree Station.
What to wear: Please ensure that you dress appropriately for the weather. Long trousers and comfortable shoes for walking in. Please ensure that you wear a waterproof coat if wet weather and, in hot weather, bring/wear a sunhat and have sunscreen.
What to bring: Drink & snack
Other information:
- Refreshments available (cafe)
- Toilets available
- Accessible by public transport
- Car parking available
- Dog friendly
- No car needed
- May be muddy
- Uneven ground
- Rest stop at Flatford
To book a place on the Wellbeing in Nature Walks, contact Jenny Moss by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07514723515 or 01394 445 211.
2 - Dedham Vale Loop
Date: 27th June 2024
Start time: 11am
Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2km)
Duration: Allow 3 hours
Type: Circular
Terrain: Easy – Mainly flat footpaths with good surfaces. There is a hill going from Flatford to East Bergholt. There is an option to shorten the route (see details below).
Meeting point: Manningtree Station, Station Approach, Manningtree CO11 2HH
Getting there: By Car The St, East Bergholt, Colchester CO7 6TB. By Bus take the 93 from either Ipswich or Colchester
Overview: Constable Country is situated in the picturesque Dedham Vale; one of the special landscapes designated a National Landscape. The rolling farmland, ancient woodlands and picturesque villages of Dedham Vale have inspired artists and painters, including John Constable, who was born in the area and painted many of his works there.
The walk is divided into 3 SECTIONS:
SECTION 1 – East Bergholt to Dedham
SECTION 2 – Dedham to Flatford
SECTION 3 – Flatford to East Bergholt
(Short cut via Fen Bridge that can be taken to shorten the route whereby we can cross the River at Fen Bridge halfway between Dedham and Flatford on SECTION 2 of the walk. We can decide this as a group on the day.)
What to wear: Please ensure that you dress appropriately for the weather. Long trousers and comfortable shoes for walking in. Please ensure that you wear a waterproof coat if wet weather and, in hot weather, bring/wear a sunhat and have sunscreen.
What to bring: Drink & snack
Other information:
- Refreshments available (cafes)
- Toilets available
- Accessible by public transport
- Car parking available
- No car needed
- May be muddy
- Uneven ground
- Rest stop at Flatford
To book a place on the Wellbeing in Nature Walks, contact Jenny Moss by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07514723515 or 01394 445 211.
