Two new stretches of the England Coast Path – Tilbury to Southend-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea to Wallasea Island – are opening to the public today (July 13th).
They represent even more opportunities to get out and enjoy hiking on a caravan or motorhome holiday in the UK.
Highlights along the route include the Tilbury Cruise Terminal, where SS Empire Windrush docked; and Tilbury Fort, which was the location of Queen Elizabeth I’s rousing speech to the troops as the Spanish Armada approached.
There’s also a fascinating beach of glass that was created when the Thames eroded the banks of an old bottle dump site; the Wallasea Island RSPB reserve to spend some time birdwatching; and the coastal resort of Southend-on-Sea to discover.
Marian Spain, CEO of Natural England, said: “The England Coast Path will be the longest coastal walking route in the world once complete, accessible to all via public transport and walkable in all weathers and by people of all abilities.
“I’m thrilled that today Natural England is opening this latest section, which takes us another step closer to being able to walk all the way around England.
“This stretch passes through areas rich in seaside heritage: industrial heartlands, coastal communities and nature reserves where precious wildlife, from flocks of wild geese to rare insects, thrive.”
When it’s finished, the England Coast Path will be a 2,700-mile continuous trail of well-maintained footpaths.
Some of it will include new public rights of access, offering walkers the chance to explore beaches, cliffs and sections of foreshore that were previously restricted.
Prior to the new stretches of route being opened today, the last part of England Coast Path to have been launched was the Grain to Woolwich section in January this year.
Caravanners and motorhomers keen to hike any section of the long-distance route are reminded to follow the Countryside Code on responsible enjoyment of the country’s natural environment.
Image credit: Natural England, Darren Braine
