The Woodham Fen/nature reserve (managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust)  in Ferrers Road offers a reasonable walk with a choice of paths.  A couple of ponds and a stream add interest on the way.  Benches have been set out at intervals for those with weary legs or just wanting to enjoy the open space. Large dragonflies with bodies with a metallic sheen can be seen flitting about the ponds.   There are a also  few brambles and crab apple trees.

Parents with young children should be aware that the train line crosses the nature reserve.  There is a public right of way across the train line but its very much a case of looking and listening before you cross.

It is possible to walk through the nature reserve, down past the sewage farm (it doesn't usually smell too much!) and eventually along the river bank. The South Woodham Ring circles the town in seven miles, encompassing Woodham Fen and the Country Park.

For those willing to travel a little further afield, there is a very pleasant walk at Hanningfield Reservoir (about 5 miles away). The bluebells and other wild flowers are a delight in early to mid May. Bird lovers will enjoy seeing the ducks, swans and geese guarding their young.  There are also a couple of observation hides overlooking the lake.  The forest floor is littered with wood chips and gigantic termites - remember to wear closed-in shoes.   Refreshments including snacks and lunches can be purchased at the fishing lodge.

Deer, squirrels, rabbits and other wildlife can be spotted on Danbury Common. It's a popular place to walk and the small car park is sometimes full to overflowing.  The Cricketers Pub is a good place to stop for a liquid reward afterwards.

The Heybridge Basin, near Maldon, offers a glorious walk along the sea wall with views of lots of yachts and boats bobbing about the water. Take the tour.

The Chelmsford Youth Hostelling Association (open to all ages but the current membership is mainly male, aged 25-55 - joke is that YHA stands for Your Husband Assured) also have local walks as a regular feature of their programme.

The Ramblers Association organise regular walks through the Essex countryside. The nearest groups to South Woodham Ferrers are the Chelmer and Blackwater Ramblers Group and the Friends Group.

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