New walking trail connects Kent coast and London

A new near 50-mile trail will connect London and Kent, giving walkers the chance to get closer to nature.

The 47.12 mile Grain to Woolwich stretch of the English Coast Path will allow walkers to take in an abundance of wildlife and wonderful sights. Starting from Grain on the Hoo Peninsula, the route offers views of Southend-on-Sea and Sheerness on the Isle of Sheppey, as well as the confluence of the Medway and Thames.

Grain Coastal Path — Southend-on-Sea in the distance – image courtesy of Natural England

There are also some of the south east’s remote grazing marshes to explore. You will pass the 12 mile stretch between Allhallows and Cliffe without encountering a car park or even another a coastal village. Instead, you will come across small pocket beaches and mudflats that are likely to be hosting wading birds.

If you’re lucky, as you continue along the river, you may encounter a grey seal.

The Thames Estuary itself hosts wildlife that are of national and international importance. Birdwatchers will get to spot waterbirds including avocet and dunlin, while the Cliffe Pools nature reserve is another great location for encountering some feathered friends.

An avocet standing in water — You may get to spot an avocet as you explore – image courtesy of Ben Andrew / RSPB Images

The route is also ideal for history lovers – along the way, you will get to see the fort at Shornemead, amongst others.

Visitors have the chance to follow the path through Swanscombe Peninsula too. Recently confirmed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the area’s industrial past has led to habitats that are perfectly suited for a variety of wildlife.

Ending in Woolwich, the route joins the Thames Path National Trail, which can be followed to the source of the river in the Cotswolds.

Marian Spain, Natural England Chief Executive said: “At a time when the benefits of connecting with nature are clearer than ever, it’s fabulous that we are opening up this 47 mile-long section of footpath from the capital to the Kent coast. Easily walkable in all weathers and readily accessible by public transport, it is a wonderful new recreational resource for the hundreds of thousands of people who live nearby, as well as a tourist attraction for those who will come from around the world to walk the whole Path.”

Lord Benyon, Minister for Rural Affairs and access to nature said: “The England Coast Path is greatly improving access to our cherished coastlines and connecting people across the country with nature, in line with our 25 Year Environment Plan. Home to a diverse array of bird life at this time of year, this latest stretch links the salt marshes and mudflats of the Thames Estuary with the heart of London. I encourage people of all ages and abilities to venture outdoors and explore this fantastic new path for themselves.”

Are you wondering where to head to on your next trip? Then be sure to head to our best motorhome sites guide – we’ve rounded up 100 of the top locations to stay at in the UK.

If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, why not get the latest news, reviews and features delivered direct to your door or inbox every month. Take advantage of our brilliant Practical Motorhome magazine SUBSCRIBERS’ OFFER and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER for regular weekly updates on all things motorhome related.

Home to a diverse array of bird life at this time of year, this latest stretch links the salt marshes and mudflats of the Thames Estuary with the heart of London

Peter Byrne

Peter is the Content Editor for Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome. With over half a decade of experience as a digital editor, Peter’s expertise spans from interiors and homes to food and design. Writing for the website – and occasionally the magazine – Peter oversees the online buying guides, features and news. His career to-date has seen him do everything from launching websites to giving a speech to 250 people at the Tower of London with less than 24 hours notice.