The Isle of Grain is not on the Saxon Shore Way, so I missed it when I started my coastal walk. I want to explore the mid-19th century offshore gun tower at the mouth of the River Medway. It’s only accessible at low tide, so this means an early drive over and home in time for breakfast.
The Prospector 1 oil rig berthed at Sheerness frames the gun tower.
The surroundings may be bleak, but it’s a gorgeous sunrise.
The retreating tide only takes one hour to reveal the path.
After a short rope-assisted climb up to the first level, I need to find another route to progress higher as the external staircase is crumbling and bowing dangerously.
The steps look a little safer inside.
There are fine views from the gun emplacement at the top.
The property was recently sold to a developer for £150,000. Is there a finer address than No. 1, The Thames?
Note: To simplify the website, this is one of three old hikes from the Day Hikes page, now merged into the main blog.
Date of walk: Friday 19 February 2021.
Walk distance: 3 miles.
Beautiful sunrise, but the rest scared me! A ‘short rope assisted climb” and crumbling staircase – eek!
I’d hate to read the structural survey when someone tries to redevelop it as a residential property! 🙂