We are the Hike Essex Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Brian R.
*** Please note date change from 14th Dec to 4th January 2025 ***
This is a linear walk (station to station) along a section of the Thames Estuary Path.
The majority of this walk is flat and on solid paths. This is a walk of two distinct halves:
First Half: We will journey alongside the Thames through an industrial landscape, weaving past large chemical plants, concrete factories, and oil storage depots. Along the way, we'll pass under the QE2 Bridge and walk along the 'graffiti wall' an infamous 3km stretch of sea wall covered in street art. We'll take a short detour to visit the historic 12th-century St Clements Church. The church has featured in several TV dramas and films, most notably the classic 1990s film Four Weddings and a Funeral.
We will stop for lunch halfway, at Rainham Marshes by the RSPB Visitor Centre where there is an outdoor seating area and a public toilet. (The Cafe and GIft Shop is closing at the end of 2024).
Second Half: After lunch, we walk through the peaceful surroundings of Rainham Marshes, and Coldharbour ending up at the 'Concrete Barges'.
The walk will conclude at Rainham Station, where regular direct trains return to Grays every 30 minutes.
There will be the option to unwind at a pub after the walk, which will be back in Grays.
Please note there is only one public toilet on route (at the halfway point) - other than that there are only limited opportunities for a 'discreet' comfort break. There is a toilet at Grays Station (Platform 1) at the start, plus there is another at Rainham Station where we finish.
Meeting Point: Grays Station, Station Approach, RM17 6NQ - 10.00 / 10.15 Start
There are two entrances at Grays Station, we will meet at the south entrance adjacent to platform 1, same side as the station car park. Not the Morrisons side.
Finishing Point: Rainham station, Ferry Lane, Rainham, Essex, RM13 9JA
Parking: There is a large car park at the station in Grays, Station Approach, RM17 6NQ. Its £3.60 for the day, you can pay at the ticketless machine by the station, or use the RingGo App (Location 9502)
Alternative option, Argent Street Car Park - 58 Argent St, Grays RM17 6LS. Which is free on weekends and 3min walk from the station, as a bonus its also next to the pub which we will visit after the walk.
See notes in overview
