Tollesbury: A Maritime Journey

Explore Tollesbury’s rich maritime heritage with local boatbuilder and Thames sailing barge skipper Chris Martin. A Tollesbury resident, Chris will share first-hand knowledge and fascinating stories about the shipwrights, sailors and vessels that have shaped this historic riverside village. 

Discover the story of Woodrolfe Creek, the distinctive sail lofts, Tollesbury’s former pier and the much-loved “Crab and Winkle” railway, as well as the remarkable lightship moored offshore. A special exhibition of historic photographs will offer another glimpse into Tollesbury’s maritime past and reveal how its working waterfront has changed over the years. Beyond the village, enjoy the expansive landscapes of Tollesbury Wick, with its saltmarsh, winding creeks, grazing marshes and magnificent coastal skies. There will be an optional lunch stop at Harbour View early in the walk before the group continues its exploration of this fascinating corner of the Essex coast.

Start time: 11:00am

Distance: 6.3 miles

Time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, including frequent stops, the photographic exhibition and an hour-long optional lunch break

Route information

Route Length Category – Medium

Accessibility of route – Steps, slopes and stiles. Footpaths could be muddy after wet weather, so stout footwear is required.

Start and finish – The Square, High Street, Tollesbury, CM9 8QJ. What3words: ///still.described.doll

Parking – Parking is available in the Village Square, in surrounding streets or at Woodrolfe Road Car Park. Please park considerately and allow sufficient time to find a space and reach the Square in good time for the walk’s 11:00am start.

Toilets – Available at Woodrolfe Road Car Park and at Harbour View.

Public transport – Tollesbury is served by local bus services. The nearest bus stop is The Square, beside the meeting point. Sunday services may be limited, so please check suitable services and return times at TravelEssex before travelling.

Lunch – There will be an optional lunch stop at approximately 12:30pm at Harbour View, 37 Woodrolfe Park, Tollesbury, CM9 8SE. As this stop comes relatively early in the walk, approximately one hour has been allowed and all walkers should expect a lengthy pause before the walk continues. When booking, walkers will be asked to indicate whether they are interested in having lunch. Lunch and refreshments are not included in the Festival and must be paid for by walkers.

Circular route – Village streets, field paths, seawalls and coastal paths through Tollesbury Wick.