Walks 2015

Aveley and Belhus Park

By · On April 28, 2015

Map:  9. 150630 Aveley & Belhus schedule v3

This circular walk includes the Mardyke woods, Davy Down and the remnants of the 18th century Belhus Park, laid out by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and Richard Woods, taking in the Shrubbery and the Long Pond created in 1770 as well as an Ice House and a stench pipe built in the same century.

You don’t need to walk the full 10 miles if you don’t want to – pick up/drop off points are indicated in green below. The original approx walk timings are below for your reference.  The main points are:

  • 12.00    Set off from Belhus Park Leisure Centre.
  • 12.30    Walk past Aveley School (1 mile).
  • 13.30    Visit the Mardyke Woods in South Ockendon (2 miles) and see recent improvements funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
  • 14.30    Visit Aveley Community Forum (4 miles).
  • 15.00    Visit Kennington Park (5 miles), a woodland and lake created from a quarry and landfill site in the 1990s.
  • 15.30    Walk through the historic wooded landscapes of Belhus Country Park designed by Capability Brown, and see remnants of Belhus Park and House.  
  • 16.00   Refreshment stop at Belhus Woods Visitor Centre (7 miles).
  • 18.00   Cross the M25 footbridge to Long Pond and other historic highlights of Belhus.
  • 18.45   Arrive back at Belhus Park Leisure Centre.

Download our original day’s schedule and map here so you can follow it yourself:

Meeting Place

Belhus Park Leisure Centre. Look out for the Thurrock 100 flag at the start!

Parking

Belhus Park Golf and Country Park (charges apply)

Accessibility

Please download the map above for more detail on which parts of the route are most accessible. Blue routes have been identified as most likely to be suitable for wheelchairs users and buggies, taking into account the quality, gradient and availability of dropped kerbs on the path.

Disclaimer

Whilst we endeavour to make all our walks as safe and enjoyable as possible, any walk attended is done so at your own risk.  Due care has been exercised in organising the walks however Thurrock Council and associated sponsors accept no liability for loss, accident or injury caused to any person following the routes.

You  need to choose walks within your capabilities; and if not on one of the Thurrock 100 guided walks, you should consider walking with a friend.

Equipment and Clothing
Please ensure that you are properly equipped for all walks. We all know how unpredictable our weather is so take waterproof clothing or sunhats and sun cream – it’s best to be prepared for everything! Walking boots are recommended, but otherwise please wear suitable and comfortable footwear.  Make sure you take a packed lunch, if necessary, and plenty to drink.  Some water top up points are available en-route.

This walk originally took place on Friday 17 July 2015.