New ‘Grazing Walks’ leaflet launches to promote car-free days out

27/03/26
Babergh District Council has helped to introduce a new Grazing Walks illustrated map and visitor leaflet, designed to help visitors enjoy easy, sustainable days out and short breaks across the Harwich Haven, using train travel and the Harwich Harbour Ferry. 

With £1,300 put forward by Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Improvement Fund, the leaflet links the ferry’s three drop off points at Harwich, Shotley and Felixstowe. It also helps bring together information for visitors to plan a full day out. 

Babergh District Council also provided funds for the leaflet, alongside partners Mid Suffolk District Council and East Suffolk Council.

The leaflet includes information such as local walking routes, places to eat and drink, accommodation options and key attractions.

The project offers a unique way to showcase an area rich in wildlife and history whilst supporting the local economy by encouraging visitors to spend longer in each destination. 

Scott Dolling, Greater Anglia’s Partnerships Manager, said:

“This is an excellent project linking sustainable public transport with some fantastic walks and venues.”

“Greater Anglia's Customer and Community Improvement Fund is all about enabling locally led initiatives that connect with the railway like this, and we are pleased to see it launched here in the spring season to benefit the business community.”
Seamus Bennett, East Suffolk Council’s Assistant Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Transport & Economy, said:

“I am really pleased to welcome this initiative to connect Felixstowe, Shotley and Harwich for people to visit the area and enjoy all the culinary delights, the tourism spots and the nature of all three locations. 

“I think that this will be a great boost for our local community and local businesses.”
Derek Davis, Babergh District Council and Portfolio Holder for Business Development, said:

“This initiative will have huge benefits in terms of wellbeing and sustainability. It encourages visitors to get out and about and leave the car behind to choose more green forms of transport, so there are benefits for everyone visiting this wonderful county.

“I know businesses are already looking forward to welcoming visitors to the stunning Shotley Peninsula."

It follows the launch of the 'Grazing Walks' initiative in Babergh and Mid Suffolk in 2025, which introduced a detailed guide to the districts that highlights perfect places to enjoy a picturesque walk followed by a treat at a local pub, shop or cafe.

Elsewhere, applications to Greater Anglia’s 2026 Customer and Community Improvement Fund are currently open.

Full details, including bid eligibility and criteria, are available on the Greater Anglia website and bids must be submitted online using the online form at www.greateranglia.co.uk/ccif by 23.59 on Sunday 12 April.

Projects must be completed by 31 March 2027, be focused only on the Greater Anglia network area and have a lasting positive impact for communities and the railway in the region.

Grazing Walks image Greater Anglia