Brian asked... > We have been looking at taking our bikes down to the river Chelmer.
Much of the towpath can be VERY muddy, as I found out last December! Not the best time of year I know. It won't be quick cycling I suspect. I only went from Heybridge up to Beeleigh (2 miles 7 furlongs) and gave up after nearly an hour and went back - although I only had the folding bike not the mountain bike and the mud kept jamming the wheels. If it's drier weather you'll get on better of course, so either way should be possible in four hours (Paper Mill to the sea lock is 8 miles 6 furlongs, Paper Mill to Chelmsford is 5 miles 1 furlong). The towpath is reasonable throughout so that doesn't make too much difference. My personal preference would be to go from Paper Mill to Heybridge - you can then have a look at Heybridge Basin (the most interesting part of the waterway) and have a pint (or visit the tearooms) before heading back! You need to be slightly careful just below Beeleigh though - the towpath forms part of the golf course! There's also a bit more to see that way, although it could be rated as the least picturesque waterway in the country for much of its length - not a criticism, there's just not a lot to see. Hope that helps a bit. Glen
