Broomway guided walk. (3 mile 2hrs or 7 miles, 4 hour options). Please read description.

The Broomway guided walks. (Please read carefully to the end). 

The Broomway is a unique path that connects Foulness Island to the mainland near Great Wakering in Essex. This path stretches across the maplin sands (which are now an MOD firing range) when the tide is out and was once the only way for road vehicles to get on and off of Foulness island. There is now a road bridge which allows access to the island for residents and workers but access to 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 deadliest 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 & wind. Dress for the conditions. Wellies (as long as they are very comfortable ones), or something on your feet you are happy to get wet through (ie old trainers or walking boots) are the best options. Bring layers and waterproof / wind proof clothes, water, snacks, sun hat and sunscreen. 

Our standard Broomway walk is a circular 6/7 miles which will take 4 hours. We stop to give information about the history of the path and local area and have a break mid walk on Foulness island. There are no facilities for us to use, so eat & drink what you’ve brought and a wild wee is the order of the day. 

The shorter Broomway walk option is approx 3 miles, 2 hours which will give you a taster of the Broomway and you’ll learn about its history and some history / geography of the local area but will not go onto Foulness island. Obviously ideal for those who feel the full 6 or 7 miles might be too far from them or have limited time.

Accompanied under 18s are £5 on all walks. I trust parents to err on the side of caution when accessing their children’s walking ability. A shorter walk is a sensible first step.