Now that the good weather has made an appearance perhaps you are looking for a nice day out in relatively peaceful surroundings. Have you heard of Paper Mill Lock? Paper Mill is on the Chelmer & Blackwater canal about 20 minutes from Billericay and offers a good day by the river. You will find towpath walks, different types of boats including colourful narrow boats and ducks to feed. There are rowing boats for hire, river trips, a tea room and free parking. Check out the web site papermilllock.co.uk. The most direct route is north along the A12, turn off at junction 18, the A414 to Maldon. At the mini roundabouts at Danbury Hill turn left on Little Baddow Road for about 2 miles and Paper Mill is on the left at the bottom of the hill. Enjoy your day out.