Dedham walk along the River Stour

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to show you a Dedham walk along the River Stour. It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we answer tons of FAQ’s and give you lots of information to help you get the most out of Suffolk.

At Woodfarm Barns & Barges, we understand that planning the perfect getaway involves many questions and uncertainties. To help you navigate through these and to ensure you have the best experience possible, we’ve launched our ‘You Ask, We Answer’ initiative. This approach isn’t just about promoting our Barns, Cottages and Barges; it’s about providing valuable information, solutions, and peace of mind to our prospective guests.

Anyway, this is the video, and the transcript is below it if you wish to go back over anything.

This is what I said…

Exploring the Beautiful Dedham Walk Along the River Stour

Hello, it’s Carl! Today, I’m taking you on a journey to one of my favourite places on the planet: Dedham, situated in the heart of the countryside on the Essex and Suffolk border. This charming area offers a picturesque walk along the River Stour, stretching between Dedham and Flatford. Let’s explore this tranquil route together and see why it’s so special.

Starting Your Walk: Dedham to Flatford

We begin our walk at Dedham, a beautiful village with a rich history. The most convenient parking is at the public car park in the centre of Dedham, just a short two-minute walk from the starting point. As you stroll along the path, you’ll see the Old Mill and Mill Pond, setting a serene backdrop for the start of your journey.

The path itself runs alongside the river, where you’ll often see people enjoying various activities like walking, paddleboarding, rowing, and kayaking. The opposite side of the river is private, but this side is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a day of paddling.

A Popular Spot for Boating and Paddling

If you’re keen on getting on the water, the Boatyard in Dedham is the place to be. You can hire boats, or if you have your own kayak, you’re welcome to launch it from here. I’ve kayaked this stretch countless times, having lived in Dedham for many years, and it’s always a delight to return to this area.

The River Stour is incredibly clear, offering stunning views of the riverbed and its tiny inhabitants. It’s a popular spot for dogs to have a splash too, and you’ll often see four-legged friends enjoying the water.

The Dedham to Flatford Walk: A Scenic Route

The walk from Dedham to Flatford takes around 30 minutes and is a beautiful, open countryside route. Along the way, you’ll pass grazing cows and see plenty of space for dogs to roam freely. This path is also part of Constable Country, known for its connection to the famous artist John Constable, who painted many of his masterpieces in this area.

As you walk, you’ll find nothing but peace and quiet between Dedham and Flatford—a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle. The river itself flows from Sudbury, meandering through Dedham, Flatford, and eventually out to the sea near Manningtree. There’s even an annual kayak race called Sudbury to the Sea, but you don’t need to go that far to enjoy the tranquillity of this walk.

Enjoying the Countryside at Woodfarm

This stunning riverside walk is just a 25-minute drive from Woodfarm HQ, making it a perfect outing if you’re staying at one of our cosy Barns, Cottages, or Barges. Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a riverside walk, the River Stour offers an idyllic setting for a day out.

Stay Connected with Woodfarm

For more videos like this, don’t forget to check out our YouTube Channel, where you can explore other beautiful spots around Suffolk, including a separate video on Flatford. Subscribe to our newsletters on the homepage of our website to stay updated on last-minute availability, cancellations, and exclusive competitions.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into one of my favourite walks. Thanks for joining me, and I’ll see you on the next adventure!

We have another Blog Post and video, with more of an insight on Dedham, telling you what it’s like.