An Essex Island, Canvey East Coast, Beginner Hike

Join our friendly group for a hike at the Essex Coast. Our route is the Eastern half of the coastal path around a unique Island in the Thames Estuary. Sitting below sea level the land is protected by 15-miles of sea walls and a continuous drainage and pumping system. A journey of contrasts where the landscape shifts smoothly from tranquil, remote sea-walls, big skies and estuary views, to vintage beach fronts, and industrial heritage sites. Expect to see mudflats, creeks, river traffic of ships big and small, sandy beaches, seawall murals, and grassy marshland. On our way we will pass by the quirky Shell Marina Tearoom hidden within a boat yard, and the iconic modernist Labworth Cafe, where, if desired, we can make brief stops for a take-away tea or cake. Canvey has an interesting industrial history, looking over the sea wall we will see the abandoned mile-long Occidental Jetty intended to receive crude oil from tankers, now a wildlife haven for birds and fish. We end our journey at the legendary smugglers' inn The Lobster Smack, immortalized by Charles Dickens in Great Expectations. Here you are welcome to join the group for a drink or make your way to the train station at your convenience. Directions to the bus stop will be shared for anyone wishing to skip the pub.

GRADE: Beginner, 15km
3.45hrs walking time not including breaks.
Flat. Pavement, concrete sea wall, footpaths, grass. Can be wet or muddy after rain.
PACE: Social with regular breaks
MEETING TIME: 09.15 at Upminster Station, by the ticket office.
TRAINS: 09:44 From Upminster to Benfleet arriving 10:04, journey time 20 mins.
Train tickets are not included and are available on the day or in advance.
TICKETS: Contactless or off-peak day return ticket to Benfleet. Group save tickets can be bought with 3-9 together.
WALK STARTS: 10:05 at Benfleet station
LUNCH: Packed lunch
WALK FINISHES: approx 15:30 at Canvey Island Hawkesbury Road, bus 27/22 to Benfleet train station, every 15 mins, journey time 10mins. Trains from Benfleet to Upminster every 30 mins, journey time 20 mins.
HIKE LEADER: Natalie
ADDITIONAL INFO: Due to engineering works on this date the train is running from Upminster in East London instead of central London. Upminster station is reachable from central London via the district line tube.
The walk is 13.5km from start to pub and 1.5km from pub to bus stop, 15km total.

What to Bring
Full kit list- Click Here
✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
✅ Suitable clothing and layers for changing weather
✅ Packed lunch, snacks and water
✅ Train ticket
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