Roding River Walk
A peaceful riverside walk tracing London’s third longest river, through rural Essex villages to the urban sprawl of East London.
Starting Point: Redbridge Roundabout (Roding Valley Park)
Length: Approx. 20–25 miles (flexible sections)
Time: Variable (4–8 hours or divided into shorter walks)
The River Roding rises near Stansted and flows through Essex into Barking Creek, ending at the Thames. Along its course, it forms part of borough boundaries and winds through meadows, parks, and towns.
Explore the Roding Valley Park for wildlife such as herons, dragonflies, and butterflies. The path passes under the M25, past Loughton and Woodford Green, and into Ilford and Barking. The Barking Barrier marks the river’s tidal end, rich with Victorian maritime history.
Transport, local tourism:
Accessible via nearby Tube or Overground stations.
Check TFL for the best routes
Are there steps, gates, stiles, or wheelchair access?
Mixture of paved and unpaved paths. Some steps, gates, or uneven terrain may be present. Limited wheelchair accessibility.
Are there toilets, cafes, benches?
Some cafes and benches along the route. Public toilets may be available near start or end points or in parks.
Are dogs allowed? Off-lead? Livestock?
Dogs allowed on-lead. Off-lead permitted in open spaces unless livestock or park rules indicate otherwise.
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We’re curating a dynamic programme of things to do — from walks and talks to workshops and cultural activities — all in and around our pop-up Visitors Centre at 80 Mortimer Street. These activities are run in collaboration with a range of partners, both big and small.
For the latest list of upcoming activities, visit:
nationalparkcity.london/events
To find out more or discuss running your own event, contact Louis Rutherford at
louis.rutherford@nationalparkcity.org.





