Maldon: A Maritime Journey

Discover Maldon’s rich maritime heritage through the eyes of well-known local shipwright Ralph Springett. Drawing upon his lifetime’s knowledge of traditional vessels and boatbuilding, Ralph will bring the waterfront to life with fascinating stories about its ships, shipwrights and historic buildings. Highlights include the former Custom House, the home and yard of master shipbuilder John Howard, Maldon’s Victorian sail lofts and the Thames sailing barges gathered at Hythe Quay. Hear about the remarkable history of Cook’s Yard, see the steam tug Brent and discover why St Mary’s Church tower was once so important to sailors navigating the Blackwater. The walk also visits Maldon’s atmospheric Barge Graveyard, where the remains of veteran vessels rest in the riverside mud. A particularly special experience will be boarding SB Centaur for a talk and tour, followed by a ploughman’s lunch aboard this historic Thames sailing barge.

Start time: 10:45am

Distance: 3.1 miles

Time: 3 hours 45 minutes, including a 75-minute talk, tour and lunch aboard SB Centaur

Route information

Route Length Category – Short

Accessibility of route – The route is mainly on pavements and surfaced paths, with one unsurfaced path that could be muddy after wet weather. No steps or stiles. Stout footwear is required.

Start and finish – Butt Lane Car Park, Maldon, CM9 5HD, near the public toilets.

Parking – Parking is available at Butt Lane Car Park. Please ensure that you pay for sufficient parking time to cover the full duration of the walk.

Toilets – Available at Butt Lane Car Park, aboard SB Centaur and in Promenade Park.

Public transport – Maldon High Street is served by several local bus routes. The nearest bus stop is All Saints Church, a short walk from Butt Lane Car Park. Please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling.

Lunch – A ham and cheese ploughman’s lunch will be served aboard SB Centaur, with tea, coffee or squash. Vegetarian (cheese only ploughman’s lunch) and gluten-free options can be provided; please specify when booking. Lunch costs £10 per person and is not included in the Festival. Cash and cards will be accepted.

Circular route – Mainly town pavements, the historic quayside and surfaced park paths, with one unsurfaced path.