4.5
(190)
1,163
hikers
169
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Matching Tye are characterized by the rural landscapes of Essex, offering access to ancient woodlands and picturesque village greens. The area is situated near significant natural sites, including Hatfield Forest, a well-preserved medieval forest known for its diverse flora and fauna. Hikers can explore routes along rivers and through open countryside, providing opportunities for nature observation. The terrain is generally gentle, making it suitable for easy walks.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
20
hikers
5.10km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
6.38km
01:40
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
3
hikers
4.98km
01:17
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.79km
01:30
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.39km
01:55
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Nice path along the canal with views.
0
0
Great Shopping for Bikers and Ramblers and everything is on sale - I mean for real!
0
0
A more peaceful way of getting into/out of the west of Old Harlow. It is a bit up and down and in winter, the ruts in the surface can be hidden by mashed-up detritus from the trees.
0
0
Don't cycle along the Stort, anywhere along its length. It's gash.
0
0
Old Harlow is a town known for a few things, namely its historic buildings, central museum, and brilliant pubs. It's also home to the Gibberd Garden, created by Sir Frederick Gibberd and his wife Patricia. The gardens showcase a number of impressive sculptures and ceramic pots, as well as glades, ponds, and flower-filled alleys.
0
0
Towpath can be muddy in places wear sturdy footwear
0
0
There are over 70 easy hiking trails around Matching Tye, offering a variety of routes through rural landscapes and ancient woodlands. In total, the area features more than 150 hiking routes across all difficulty levels.
Easy hikes around Matching Tye typically feature gentle terrain, including paths through rural landscapes, alongside rivers, and within ancient woodlands. You can expect mostly flat or gently undulating paths, suitable for leisurely walks.
The easy trails around Matching Tye are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. More than 1,100 hikers have explored these routes, often praising the peaceful rural scenery and well-maintained paths.
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The gentle terrain and scenic surroundings make them ideal for walks with children. Routes like the River Stort Navigation – South Bank Path loop from Harlow Mill offer pleasant riverside strolls that families can enjoy.
Yes, the rural landscapes and open spaces around Matching Tye are generally dog-friendly. Many trails, especially those through woodlands and along river paths, are suitable for walks with your dog. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any local signage regarding lead requirements, particularly near livestock or nature reserves.
Easy hikes around Matching Tye offer opportunities to see various natural features and historical landmarks. You can explore ancient woodlands, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy picturesque rural scenery. Notable attractions include Hatfield Forest Lake, part of the well-preserved medieval Hatfield Forest, and the Gernon Bushes Nature Reserve. You might also encounter historical sites like Chipping Ongar Castle Motte and Bailey.
Yes, many easy routes around Matching Tye are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Netteswell Road – Twisty Off-Road Track loop from Harlow Mill, which offers varied off-road sections, and the River Stort Towpath loop from Rowneybury.
Parking is generally available at common starting points for trails, particularly near villages or popular access points to areas like Hatfield Forest. For routes starting near Harlow Mill, such as the Sports Direct – River Stort Navigation loop from Harlow Mill, you can often find parking facilities nearby.
While Matching Tye itself is a rural village, nearby towns like Harlow offer public transport links. From Harlow, you may find local bus services that can take you closer to some trailheads. For example, routes starting from Harlow Mill, like the Netteswell Road – Sports Direct loop from Harlow Mill, might be more accessible via public transport connections.
The best time for easy walks in Matching Tye is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes, including ancient woodlands and river paths, are at their most vibrant. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.
Yes, the charming rural setting means you can often find traditional pubs in or near the villages surrounding Matching Tye, perfect for a refreshment or a meal after your walk. Some routes may pass close to such establishments, offering convenient stops.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.