Pictures of Canvey Island

About Canvey Island

It is hard to believe that Canvey Island sits along a coastline which was once a famous haunt of smugglers who steered their craft along creeks between mud-flats to deliver plundered whisky and brandy to local ale-houses. But so it was and this place which in 1953 was cruelly battered by the ravages of a stormy sea, has an equal share of tales to tell of mysterious happenings on dark, murky nights long ago.

A new sea wall has been built since the great storm of the last century and Canvey Island has become a play ground for Londoner's seeking a weekend retreat away from the City. Behind the sea wall, the land is almost entirely covered with holiday bungalows and chalets, some are owner occupied and some let out to holiday-makers. Peer across the sea wall and you have an excellent view across the Thames shipping lanes, to the Isle of Grain, on the Kent side of the river. Beneath the wall a sand and shingle beach attracts families, who swim, sun-bathe, enjoy picnics and do a bit of cockle picking. Pleasurable pastimes here include messing around in boats and fishing.

At nearby Two Tree Island, two round towers each approximately 36ft in diameter, stand like sentinels on a lofty mound. They are the best preserved parts of Hadleigh Castle, the mighty fortress built by Edward III in the 14th-century to guard against invasion from the French. Henry had been victorious in France, he feared retaliation.

The mudflats, marshes and windswept grass of Two Tree Island, have for decades been a haven for wildlife. The island is now a nature reserve of national importance, providing excellent opportunities for watching wildfowl in winter. In the summer the area becomes a riot of colour as wild flowers burst into bloom attracting delicate, colourful butterflies. This is a very special place, beloved by nature lovers from all over - it is fully deserving of a visit but please remember to stick to the way marked paths, so as not to disturb the birds. To the western edge of the island there is a lagoon where waders can be seen.

Getting around is not a problem, both Canvey Island and Two Tree, have ample foot and bridle paths. Leigh Beck is within easy walking distance, so too, is Canvey Point.

With a pleasant coast, intriguing creeks to explore, views across the Thames estuary to Allhallows and beyond, it is not surprising that Canvey Island is a popular tourist destination, not just for summer but all year round.

Attractions and places to visit include: Pitsea Hall Country Park, Hadleigh Castle, Hadleigh Country Park, Two Tree Island, enjoy a sea fishing trip, take a trip up the Thames, or spend a day at lively Southend-on-Sea.