How to get there - Take A414 east from Chelmsford bypass. In Danbury turn left for Little Baddow and go through village until you reach the river.
For those with SatNav the nearest postcode is CM3 4BT.
Get a map with driving directions to start (enter the postcode of your starting point at A)
Suggested Launch Site - Put in from towpath at Paper Mill Bridge. Car park free except Sundays
General
Description - We explored upstream to the A12 before retreating from traffic noise (3 locks, plus the one at the bridge itself, 4 miles return) and downstream to Ulting (1 lock, 4 miles return) but the trip could be extended further down towards Maldon.
The river Chelmer has been made into a navigation which is being restored, but is still largely deserted. Portages around locks may need clearing.
Dues are payable to Essex Waterways (not covered by BCU) but payment may be difficult if there is no-one in the office at Paper Mill Bridge!
Comments on this trip
Mark 18 Jun 2009
Photographs of the Chelmer & Blackwaterhttp://markbaigent.smugmug.com/Photographs%20of%20Essex,%20UK./768873
Mark 03 Jun 2009
Note re papermill lock parking, it is now free on Sundays
Hedgehog 27 Apr 2009
Paddle our kayaks on part of this river yesterday 26th April 2009, from Sandford lock to Little Baddow lock. nice strectch of river. The repair work at Sandham lock continues, but this didn't hamper our journey. We decided not to shoot the wier because of the sign saying no entry, however on closer inspection it wouldn't have been a problem.
ukbushman 06 Apr 2009
I have paddled this river for the past 2 years & fished it from my canoe a few times over the past year. It is a quiet & picturesque part of Essex. I look forward to fish other stenches of the river from my canoe in the future.
Barry Pryer 28 May 2008
Great route, we had a fantastic paddle on this stretch as far as Hoe Mill. Our first time on the Chelmer and we'll definately be going back. We beat the bad Bank Holiday weather. Thanks for the route.
