Start from the visitors’ car park and follow the path as it winds its way across grass towards the Stifford Pumping Station, which is open to visitors every Thursday afternoon between 1–5pm. The visitor information centre is next to the pumping station. After climbing steps towards the pumping station, continue to the left of the metal fencing to the trees and join a boardwalk which bisects three ponds. In front of you, the impressive 1892 railway viaduct spans the valley. Turn right and head towards a small modern footbridge which you cross to link up with the Mardyke Way.

After the footbridge turn left. Cross a concrete bridge and follow the path round a sharp right bend. Take the first path right into Brannetts Wood, one of the oldest recorded ancient woodlands in south Essex. The track, through thick foliage and tall trees, rises gently and later bears left in a westerly direction. Ignore the footpath on the right that leads to Millards Garden, and after 0.5 miles (800m), a main cross path indicated the start of the less dense Millards Green ahead.

Turn left here and, after 30yds (27m), rejoin the grassy Mardyke Way cross path, keeping the fence on your right. Beyond the fence the meadow flood plain stretches to the Mardyke River. In summer it's accessible on foot, but it soon floods after heavy rains. Retrace your steps beneath the viaduct along the wide, grassy riverside path. Ignore the modern footbridge. Keep ahead for 300yds (274m) and continue over the next bridge, Stifford Bridge, where medieval pilgrims once crossed on their way to Canterbury.

Turn right, go through a squeeze stile and walk towards the viaduct in the distance. This riverside path has occasional seating overlooking the water, where you can watch damselflies in the summer months. Look out too, for glow worms. Just before the viaduct and to the left of the modern bridge, the path forks. Follow the right-hand path which runs close to the viaduct. After 200yds (183m) take the path right, uphill, and walk between rows of native trees, part of a new woodland scheme. The path continues uphill and passes quite close to the Stifford road. Looking left, there is a marvellous view of Davy Down and the pumping station. To finish, follow the path back to the car park.