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Click to View: WALX Tonbridge & Tunbridge Wells Instructor Page

Walk Description:

I was immediately drawn to this walk when I read Robert Macfarlane's description of it in his book "The Old Ways" - "Half a mile offshore, walking on silver water, we crossed a path that extended gracefully and without apparent end to our north and south.  It was a shallow tital channel and the water it held caught and pooled the sun, such that its route existed principally as flux; a phenomenon of light and currents.  Its bright line curved away from us:  an ogee whose origin we could not explain and whose invitation to follow we could not disobey, so we walked it northwards, along that glowing track made neither of water nor of land, which led us further and still further out to sea"

The Broomway is a unique path that connects Foulness Island to the mainland near Great Wakering in Essex.  The path stretches across the Maplin Sands (and MOD firing range) when the tide is out and was once the only way for road vehicles to get on and off Foulness Island.  There is now a road bridge which allows access to the island for residents and workers but access for the public is still restricted by the Ministry of Defence because of their weapons testing facility on the island.  The Broomway remains a public right of way and can be walked when the range is not operating.  It is always recommended that you walk with an experienced guide who can monitor and has knowledge of the tides as well as the equipment and knowledge to get you back safely if visibility suddenly deteriorates.  This path is often referred to as the deadliets footpath in Britain because of parish records which attribute one hundred drownings to the Broomway.  There are areas of extremely soft mud and the possibility of stumbling across unexploded ordinance if you stray from the path.  The tide here comes in quickly and not always from the direction you expect so caution is essential.  

IMPORTANT

The Broomway has no shelter, so is very exposed to sun and wind.  Dress for the conditions.  Comfortable wellies or something on your feet that you are happy to get wet through (i.e. old trainers) are the best options.  Bring layers and waterproof/wind proof clothes, water, snacks, sun hats and sun protection.

This is a circular 6/7 mile group walk which will take approximately 4 hours.  You will learn about the history of the path and local area and there will be a mid walk break on Fouleness Island.  There are no facilities and so you must bring your own snacks and wild wees are the order of the day!

We will be walking in a group with an experienced guide.  The cost is £35pp and I will request payment by bank tfr once you have booked.  No cancellations after 19 April.

Location Notes:

Location TBC