Best attractions and places to see around Ulting, Essex, include a mix of historical sites, river features, and local facilities. The area is characterized by its waterways, such as the River Chelmer, and offers insights into local history. Visitors can explore man-made monuments, trails, and points of interest that reflect the region's heritage and natural environment. Ulting and nearby Maldon provide diverse points of interest for exploration.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Beautiful route! Just wear long running leggings as there are a few nettles on the initial smaller trails.
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Osea Island is a relatively unknown Essex retreat in the Blackwater Estuary with private beaches, no shops or restaurants and mainly self catering accommodation.
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A picturesque lock on the River Chelmer and also the home to a tea room should you need a it stop. This is a round the halfway point on the River Chelmer's 14 miles journey from Chelmsford to the Heybridge Basin where it meets the sea. For more information please see the website www.papermilllock.co.uk
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The track between Hammonds Road in the west and Great Graces in East is known as Grace's Walk, after Lady Alice Grace. She is said to have walked down this path on her way to drown herself at Sandon Brook, the little river closeby. Listen carefully as her footsteps have been heard as well as sightings of Lady Alice on horseback wearing a cloak.
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Right at the end of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation sits Heybridge Basin. Home of the sea lock which releases the canal out to sea. The basin meant that sea vessels could enter the canal and travel all the way up to Chelmsford. There are two pubs here, the Jolly Sailor and the Old Ship, plus the Lock Tea Room if you are in need of a pitstop.
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A tidal causeway known as The Stumble connects Osea Island with the mainland. Sadly the island isn't open to the public but you can visit by staying in the island's hotel. It was used in the 2012 film 'The Woman in Black' as the 'Nine Lives Causeway'. It is popular with musicians looking for a remote recording venue. Rhianna is said to have recorded an album there in 2019.
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The area around Ulting is rich in history. You can explore St Mary the Virgin Church, Maldon, which has stood since Saxon times and features a tower rebuilt in red brick in the 17th century, once serving as a beacon for mariners. Another historical spot is Grace's Walk, an intermediate trail known for local folklore about Lady Alice Grace and its connection to Sandon Brook.
Yes, several attractions in the Ulting area are suitable for families. Paper Mill Lock offers a picturesque setting on the River Chelmer with tea rooms for refreshments. Heybridge Basin Marina is another great spot with pubs, a cafe, and views of where the canal meets the sea. St Mary the Virgin Church, Maldon is also considered family-friendly, offering a glimpse into local heritage.
For refreshments, Paper Mill Lock has its own tea rooms, offering a pleasant stop by the River Chelmer. At Heybridge Basin Marina, you'll find two pubs, the Jolly Sailor and the Old Ship, along with the Lock Tea Room, perfect for a break after exploring.
The Ulting area offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes for hiking around Ulting, including moderate trails like the Paper Mill Lock – Smuggler's Barn Cottage loop. For easier walks, explore easy hikes around Ulting, such as the Smuggler's Barn Cottage loop. Cyclists can discover routes like the Hoe Mill Lock – Heybridge Basin Marina loop by checking out cycling around Ulting.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, the Smuggler's Barn Cottage loop from Ulting is an easy 4.8 km hike. You can find more options, including the Benton Hall Golf Course loop, by looking at easy hikes around Ulting.
Parking is available at key locations. Heybridge Basin Marina offers a free car park, making it convenient for visitors exploring the basin and its amenities.
The Stumble Causeway is a tidal causeway that connects Osea Island with the mainland. While the causeway itself is an interesting feature, Osea Island is generally not open to the public, except for guests staying at the island's hotel. It's known for its remote setting and has been used as a filming location.
The Ulting area is characterized by its waterways. The River Chelmer is a prominent feature, with Paper Mill Lock marking a significant point on its journey. You can also experience the end of the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation at Heybridge Basin Marina, where the canal meets the sea.
Visitors appreciate the mix of historical sites, scenic river features, and convenient local facilities. The picturesque setting of Paper Mill Lock and its tea rooms are often highlighted, as are the pubs and cafes at Heybridge Basin Marina. The historical significance of places like St Mary the Virgin Church and the folklore surrounding Grace's Walk also add to the area's appeal.
Yes, several circular walks are available. For instance, the Paper Mill Lock – Smuggler's Barn Cottage loop from Hatfield Peverel is a moderate 9.2 km circular hike. You can find more options, including easy circular routes, within the hiking guides for Ulting.
The best time to visit Ulting attractions largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the waterways and trails, with cafes and pubs often bustling. Autumn provides beautiful scenery, while winter can be quieter, offering a different charm for historical sites and riverside walks. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.


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