Local Walks
We’re so lucky to have a huge variety of beautiful countryside walks on our doorstep. With over 90 square kilometres of the Dedham Vale AONB to explore, there are lots of opportunities to get out into nature! Please make sure to follow the Countryside Code during your adventures.
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Walks around Apple Tree Lodges & Stoke by Nayland Resort
Explore the stunning grounds which surround Apple Tree Lodges on our most local walking routes! Follow the 1.5 mile circular route from Apple Tree Lodges to SbN Resort, passing lakes and tree-lined lanes. You can also wander through the small lanes (watching out for any traffic) or country footpaths which lead out towards Leavenheath, Stoke by Nayland and further afield.
Walking in Leavenheath (4 routes, 1-1.5hrs)
Explore the Dedham Vale AONB with four picturesque walks in the village of Leavenheath. Follow the 1-hour ‘Kingsland Walk’, spotting buzzards and skylarks en route. Meander through woodland, nature reserves and the reservoir on the 1.25-hour ‘Wildlife Walk’. Enjoy a 1.5-hour walk in and around the grounds of SbN Resort and Apple Tree Lodges on ‘The Lanes and Lakes’ route, or take in the beautiful views on the 1.25-hour ‘Orchard Walk’.
Walking in Nayland (2 routes, 1-2.5hrs)
Explore quiet corners of the Dedham Vale in the pretty village of Nayland. Soak up bygone days on the 1-hour ‘Historic Nayland’ route, passing ancient buildings and strolling along the banks of the River Stour. Or head off ‘In Search of a Dragon!’ on an extended 2.5-hour route to neighbouring Wissington. See if you can spot the Medieval dragon painting on your travels!
Walking in Lavenham (2 routes, 1-2.5hrs)
Considered to be Britain’s best-preserved medieval village, spend an enjoyable day out in Lavenham, wandering through picturesque streets and historical buildings. Explore the picture-perfect village and nearby nature spots on ‘A Lavenham Stroll’, a 1-hour route of mostly paths and tracks. Alternatively, take the 2.5-hour circular route ‘Along the Fields to Preston St Mary’, to enjoy the views across rolling hills.
The Gainsborough Trail Meadow Walk (1-hr)
Step back in time on the 3.5-mile Meadow Walk, the first section of the Gainsborough Trail, named after the famous painter Thomas Gainsborough. Pass through Sudbury’s undisturbed ancient water meadows, spotting wildflowers, birds and grazing cattle. You will also see remnants of Sudbury’s industrial heritage along the route, as you take in the beautiful views.
Walking in Constable Country (2 routes, 1-1.5hrs)
Step into a living painting at Flatford Mill. Located on the River Stour, the buildings and landscape were favourite subjects of artist John Constable’s paintings including The Haywain. Discover the views immortalised in the well-known masterpieces on the wonderful 1.25-hour circular riverside walk that leads you to historic Dedham.
Walking in the Footsteps of Constable (2.5-3.45hrs)
Enjoy a picturesque river walk along the River Stour through beautiful water meadows meandering from Manningtree to Flatford, exploring the beautiful Stour Valley and Dedham Vale. Explore the sights made famous in John Constable’s paintings, including Willy Lott’s House and Flatford Mill, and visit the pretty village of Dedham, where Constable went to school.