NB - Trains are running from Liverpool Street rather than Fenchurch Street this Saturday - please check below for updated instructions.
The Broomway is a unique path that connects Foulness Island to the mainland at Shoeburyness. The path stretches across the Maplin sands when the tide is out and was once the only way for vehicles to get on and off Foulness island. The Broomway remains a public right of way and can be walked at weekends (access to the public during the week is restricted by the Ministry of Defence because of their weapons testing facility on the island). This path is often referred to as the deadliest footpath in Britain because of parish records which attribute drownings to the Broomway. There are areas of extremely soft mud, and the possibility of stumbling across unexplored ordinance if you stray too far from the path. The tide here comes in quickly and not always from the direction you expect so caution is essential.
We will be meeting at Thorpe Bay Railway Staion where we will catch a bus to Landwick Cottages and walk the mile to the Wakering Stairs where we will be met by Kev (aka The Thames Estuary Man) who will be our guide. Kev has knowledge of the tides and the equipment and knowledge to get us all back safely if visibility suddenly deteriorates!
IMPORTANT - advance bookings are essential.
Please book with Kev on the 1st June walk the address above.
The finishing time is an estimate only and will be dependent on a number of factors, such as weather, the speed at which the group walks and number of stops we take.
No drop out points.
I intend to walk back to Shoeburyness station along the sea wall and through the MOD land on a public right of way accessible at the weekends. If you intend to join me purchase a return ticket to Shoeburyness rather than Thorpe Bay.
Footwear: I have been advised that knee length wellington boots or wet shoes are preferable to walking boots.