The Stour Estuary was one Ground Zero for cruel 17th-century witch-crazes. The walk focuses on which women were targeted, why and how. On t

On this two-guide walk along the Stour Estuary Laura tells the story of women accused of witchcraft during a craze that played out in the three villages of Lawford, Manningtree and Mistley, during the Civil War. You hear what kinds of women were targeted, why and by whom — opportunists like Matthew Hopkins but also ordinary neighbours.

Co-guide Rob Smith will talk about Mistley Quay, where ships were built in the 18th century, and Mistley Towers, part of a church designed by Robert Adam.

The walk is about 3 miles and includes country paths as well as town walking. There is a rest stop at Manningtree’s oldest pub, and we end near Mistley station. The walk crosses some often muddy open fields, so good soles are needed. Manningtree is about one hour by train from Liverpool Street Station.

Below see your guides after a recce in Maldon.

The Naked Anthropologist is Laura’s longtime blog, now dedicated to historical walks that highlight issues of Gender, Sex and Class.