This is a fantastic walk starting from Allhallows. The London Stone marks the entrance to Yantlet Creek on the Grain side. You'll enjoy stunning views across the Thames to Southend and Shoeburyness. The tranquility and abundance of wildlife along the way are truly blissful, with many land and sea birds to observe. Be cautious around cattle, especially if they have calves. Unfortunately, you can't walk all the way around the coast to Grain village due to a restricted area, which is marked on an OS map. However, you can head in the other direction and walk to Gravesend, which is at least 10 miles away. At the entrance to Yantlet Creek, you'll find large banks of shells that resemble sand, with patches of clay mud. The creek extends a good distance inland and is too wide to cross. It might be possible at low tide with boots, but avoid the mud. Historically, this creek is what made the Isle of Grain an island. As it approaches the Grain road before the Power Station, the creek narrows into a ditch. Use an OS map to navigate public footpaths. The entire area consists of farmland, a no-go zone (MoD range), and land belonging to the power station.
This beach is a fantastic spot for families and children to have a great time. It features a lovely, small sandy beach and even offers a steam train ride. You're welcome to bring along beach toys like spades and buckets for the kids to play with. Additionally, young children can have a blast riding their bicycles. There's also a designated area for kids to play and a delightful eatery. Adults can enjoy a leisurely walk or jog around the park. Just keep in mind that parking is limited to a maximum of three hours per day.
This long beach is plagued by a significant amount of plastic pollution throughout its entire length. It is evident that certain locals are making efforts to clean up by gathering debris and leaving it near the council bins. However, it is apparent that the magnitude of the issue requires intervention from the government and local council.
We had a fantastic time at Thorney Bay Beach one sunny day, enjoying a fun-filled afternoon with the kids. The sand was lovely to walk on, and we all had a blast!