Leigh on Sea, Benfleet Downs & Two Tree Island Circular -19km - Grade 3/5

Join us for a Scenic 19 km Hike exploring the countryside and coastline. Benfleet Downs & Hadleigh Coastal Loop

Area: Essex Distance: 18.7 km
Elevation Gain: 189 m
Grade: Grade 3 / Challenging
Start/Finish: Benfleet Station (circular route)
Terrain: Foot paths, grassy tracks, woodland trails, and coastal marshland. Some short steep ascents/descents and potentially muddy sections after rain.
Estimated Duration: 6 - 6.5 hours (including breaks)
Start Time: 9.30 AM (Please arrive ready to start)
Finish Time: Around 3.30-4 PM
Accessible by train: Yes
Price: £12.50 per person - plus meetup fee OR pay by CARD

The Hike:
This varied and scenic circular walk begins at Benfleet Station and takes you through some of Essex's most beautiful and historic landscapes. We start by heading through Benfleet Downs, where you're rewarded early on with sweeping views over the Thames Estuary. As we descend into Hadleigh Country Park, the terrain softens into rolling hills and wooded paths. We'll make a stop at the iconic Hadleigh Castle, a dramatic 13th-century ruin perched high above the marshes perfect for photos and a snack break with a view.

From there, we descend toward the coast, entering the open expanse of Two Tree Island, rich with birdlife and big skies. Depending on the tide, we may spot wading birds and hear the calls of curlew and redshank as we cross the island. The route loops back via the Hadleigh Marshes and alongside Benfleet Creek, offering peaceful waterside walking and more chances for wildlife spotting. We return to Benfleet Station by late afternoon.

Why This Walk is Grade 3 - Challenging:
Distance: At 18.7 km, it falls within the Grade 3 range, a longer walk that requires stamina.
Elevation: With 189 m of elevation, it's modest within the Grade 2 range however, combined with the distance and terrain, it bumps the challenge up.
Pace & Terrain:
The route includes a few short climbs (e.g., Benfleet Downs, Hadleigh Castle ridge), coastal paths, grassy and uneven terrain, and potentially muddy sections through the marshes and Two Tree Island, requiring decent fitness, balance, and endurance.

Suitability:
For walkers with a good base level of fitness who are comfortable being out for 6+ hours, carrying water and snacks, and navigating varied terrain. This hike is ideal for those who want to push themselves a little further while still having time to appreciate the scenery and wildlife.

Meeting Point:
Benfleet Station Car Park South Benfleet, Benfleet SS7 1ND

What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.

Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058)

Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.

Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18.

Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)

Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs