Introduction: Sheppey’s scenic trails

The Isle of Sheppey is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking coastal walks and bike rides along the sea wall with views of the Swale and Thames Estuaries. The trails are conveniently located near Seaview Park, providing the perfect base for exploration. The England Coast Path, a national trail, encircles the island and passes through nature reserves such as Elmley National Nature Reserve and Swale National Nature Reserve.

Visitors can immerse themselves in scenic coastal landscapes, with highlights including Shellness Beach and Leysdown-on-Sea. The island’s trails provide opportunities to discover its rich wildlife, including marsh harriers and other birds of prey.

Whether you’re looking for a stroll or a more challenging route, the Isle of Sheppey offers a variety of trail lengths and directions. These paths not only showcase the island’s natural beauty but also its history and landmarks, making it an ideal destination for walkers and cyclists.

Major walking trails

The Isle of Sheppey boasts several major walking trails, each providing unique experiences and stunning views. One of the most popular is The England Coast Path:

The England Coast Path 

The England Coast Path is a long-distance walking trail that stretches over 4,500km around the entire coastline of England. The section on the Isle of Sheppey covers approximately 40km and takes walkers through some of the most picturesque landscapes on the island. 

On June 24, 2025, Natural England officially opened over 80% of the island’s coastal path, offering visitors an opportunity to explore its landscapes. This well-marked trail features views of the Swale and Medway estuaries, winding through grazing lands, the historic harbour of Queenborough, and two National Nature Reserves. 

Start your journey at Swale railway station, where you can cross the Kingsferry Bridge on foot to reach the island. From there, head south and east for an anticlockwise adventure or explore the west and north sections clockwise. The entire circuit is ideal for a two-day trek, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island’s beauty and heritage.

Southern and Eastern Sections (Anti-clockwise from Kingsferry Bridge to Leysdown-on-Sea):

The journey begins by crossing the Elmley National Nature Reserve. This stretch of the route primarily follows the seawall, occasionally detouring inland to navigate creeks and salt marshes. You’ll pass from what was once the ‘Isle of Elmley’ to the ‘Isle of Harty,’ now united as the channels separating them silted up centuries ago. Along the way, highlights include the St. Thomas the Apostle Church, dating back to the 11th or 12th century, and the Ferry House Inn.

A newer section of the path hugs the seawall around Bells Creek and through Elmley National Nature Reserve, offering the first opportunity to explore the island’s southern coastline. The walk concludes in Leysdown-on-Sea, a bustling beach town and home to Seaview Park.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot Short-Eared Owls, Great White Egrets, flocks of Brent Geese, and Hen Harriers.

Important notes: An unofficial route under Kingsferry Bridge can be muddy during low tide. Additionally, the path between Oak Lane and Warden Bay is currently incomplete, so walkers are advised to use a bus for this section. Dogs are generally not allowed within the Elmley National Nature Reserve to protect ground-nesting birds.

Western and Northern Sections (Clockwise from Kingsferry Bridge):

The trail begins along a raised flood defence bank, winding through grazing land towards Rushenden on the west coast. Here, you’ll enjoy views over the Swale and Medway estuaries. From Rushenden, the path turns inland, leading to the harbour at Queenborough. 

As you continue along the sea wall, you’ll pass the industrial Port of Sheerness and the residential area of ‘Blue Town,’ named after houses that were once painted with stolen blue paint. The trail then follows the seafront promenade to Minster, where it gradually ascends the cliffs, with views across the River Thames to Southend.

Heading south, the path leads through the seaside town of Leysdown-on-Sea, home to Seaview Park, before reaching the Swale National Nature Reserve (NNR) at Shellness, where unspoiled natural beauty awaits.

Dedicated cycling routes

Beyond the England Coast Path, Sheppey offers specific cycling trails for both leisure and experienced riders. 

Isle of Harty trail

This flat, circular trail is 6 miles (9.5 km) and offers an enjoyable, mostly traffic-free experience, with only a few stretches on roads. It connects Leysdown-on-Sea, where Seaview Park is situated, to the Isle of Harty (a natural space on the southern tip of the Ilse of Sheppey), providing a scenic journey rich in history and nature. Along the route, you can explore the 900-year-old Harty Church, home to the Flemish Kist. 

The trail also grants access to the Swale National Nature Reserve, a globally significant site, and the RSPB Capel Fleet Raptor Viewing Point, recognised as one of the best locations for spotting birds of prey. The path features a mix of tarmac, concrete, and rolled gravel, making it suitable for a range of visitors.

Sheerness Way cycle ride (Sheerness circular route)

This 9km (or 10km) circular cycling route around Sheerness is a flat, family-friendly option perfect for exploring the area. Along the way, you’ll discover local highlights such as Barton’s Point Coastal Park, Sheerness Beach, and the Blue Town Heritage Centre. 

The route also passes along the Queenborough Lines, a 3km defensive earthwork constructed in 1863 to protect Sheerness Dockyard. Plans are underway to install information boards, offering insights into the history of the Lines.

Additional routes to explore

Beyond the walking and cycling trails already mentioned, the Isle of Sheppey is home to stunning nature reserves waiting to be explored, whether on foot or by bike.

Elmley National Nature Reserve

If you’re looking for a more nature-focused route, the Elmley National Nature Reserve is a must-visit. Located just outside of Sheerness, this reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife and offers views. You can choose from a variety of walking routes, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes. Keep an eye out for birds such as lapwings, redshanks, and oystercatchers, as well as other wildlife like hares and foxes.

Cyclists can also enjoy the reserve, with designated cycle paths available. The reserve is open year-round, but different seasons offer unique experiences – in spring, you can see migrating birds and wildflowers, while winter brings flocks of geese and swans.

Swale National Nature Reserve

If you want to explore the beautiful marshlands of Kent, head to the Swale National Nature Reserve. This reserve boasts a diverse array of habitats, including salt marshes, mudflats, and sand dunes. It’s also home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. 

Explore the reserve from every angle; stroll along walking trails, cycle the riverside paths, or embark on a guided boat tour for a unique perspective.  

The Isle of Sheppey: A nature lover’s paradise

The Isle of Sheppey is a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking coastal walks and cycling routes with views of the Swale and Thames Estuaries. Conveniently located near Seaview Park, the England Coast Path winds its way around the island, passing through nature reserves like Elmley and Swale.

Highlights include Shellness Beach and Leysdown-on-Sea, making it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and history lovers. Whether you prefer a relaxing stroll or a more adventurous trail, Sheppey’s diverse paths cater to walkers and cyclists of all levels.

Ready to experience the beauty of the Isle of Sheppey?

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