Great Notley Country Park Circular Walk
Essex
Great Notley Country Park sits on the southwestern edge of Braintree, a 100 acre patch of open meadow, planted woodland, ponds and a wildflower hill that draws kite flyers and dog walkers from across mid-Essex. This dog friendly circular follows the main park trail past the lakes and woodland edge before climbing the gentle Notley Hill for views and dropping back via the meadows.
Dogs are allowed off lead across most of the park, with leads required on the dedicated play trail loop and near the cafe. The terrain is easy throughout: clearly marked surfaced trails and short grass paths, with one small climb. Pay and display parking is available at the visitor centre via MiPermit, and the dog friendly Skylark cafe welcomes leads-on dogs inside the building.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 3.2 km (2.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 50 min
- Walk Type
- Park, Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- None
- Facilities
- Skylark cafe (dog friendly inside on lead), public toilets, play areas and visitor centre at Great Notley Country Park.
- Parking
- Pay and display car park at the visitor centre, payable on arrival or via the MiPermit app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Great Notley Country Park Circular Walk dog friendly?
Yes, Great Notley Country Park is a great choice for dog owners and earns a solid 8/10 on our dog friendly rating. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, and the Skylark café even allows leads-on dogs inside the building, so you can stop for a coffee without leaving your dog outside.
Can dogs be off lead at Great Notley Country Park Circular Walk?
Dogs can be off lead across most of the park, including the main circular loop past the lakes, woodland and Notley Hill meadows. Leads are required on the dedicated play trail loop and near the café, so it's worth keeping one to hand as you move around the park.
What should I know before visiting Great Notley Country Park Circular Walk with my dog?
The walk covers around 100 acres of open meadow, planted woodland and ponds, with easy, well-marked surfaced trails and just one gentle climb up Notley Hill — accessible for most dogs and owners. Parking is pay and display at the visitor centre, payable on arrival or via the MiPermit app, and public toilets are also on site.
What’s Nearby?
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