Gillingham Beach and Horrid Hill
Walks in South East England
The walk along this section of the Medway is very enjoyable and rewarding, and I would recommend using it to construct a larger walk around Medway if you have the time, being easily reached from either end. The walk takes in some interesting places including Motney Hill and provides good views of the Hoo and Darnet Ness forts.
Story by Steven Spall
Statistics and Files
Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000):
163 Gravesend, Rochester and Hoo Peninsula
The Walk
The walk begins from Motney Hill, which is home not only to a bird sanctuary but also Motney Hill Wastewater Treatment Works, one of the largest works in Kent (although this walk won't take you to such an interesting place!). Heading along the Saxon Shore Way, Bloors Wharf has a small amount of industrial archaeology and a sunken lugger and victualling craft can be seen in the bay around Rainham Creek.
Further up, Riverside Country Park allows a convenient stop to spend a penny just before heading out to Horrid Hill where a steam tug (later converted to a Ruston diesel) sits quietly rusting. Continue along the Saxon Shore Way and enjoy the views of the Medway island forts and the quirky houses before coming out at Gillingham Strand Park.
Pictures courtesy of Kate Cash.