Address: Princess Margaret Rd, East Tilbury, Tilbury RM18 8PB
Location
Coalhouse Fort Park is located near the mouth of the River Thames in East Tilbury. Visitors can take leisurely walks and appreciate the scenic views while learning about the area's history.
The park is a Green Flag award winner. To win, parks must meet high standards and have excellent facilities. For further information, and to find other Green Flag parks and open spaces, visit the Green Flag Award website.
What's there?
At Coalhouse Fort Park, you will find:
Engine Room Café
Free car park
Picnic areas in a parkland environment
Riverside views
Toilets with facilities for disabled visitors
Children's playground
The Engine Room Cafe is open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and stays open later during the summer months; they serve a range of hot and cold drinks, as well as cakes.
Additionally, the 13th century St Catherine’s Church, is located right next to the park.
Coalhouse Forts History
The Lower Hope Reach area of the Thames has a long history of defense structures, even before Coalhouse Fort was built. The first defenses in this area were put in place after the French invasion during the second phase of the Hundred Years' War in 1379.
The current site dates back to 1539 when King Henry VIII commissioned the construction of an artillery blockhouse as part of a strategy to strengthen the coastal defenses of England and Wales. The East Tilbury Blockhouse was partly constructed using stone salvaged from St. Margaret's Chapel in Tilbury, which was dissolved in 1536.
In response to renewed tensions between Britain and France during the 1840s, significant upgrades to Britain's coastal defenses were undertaken. Between 1847 and 1855, the fort was extensively expanded and remodeled for enhanced military capability.
Over the ensuing years, the fort remained a crucial part of the region's defenses. It was actively manned during both World Wars, providing protection against potential maritime and aerial threats.
The fort is only open to the public on select days, click here for more info.
Coalhouse Point Radar Tower
A short distance from the fort, visitors will find an early radar tower built during the Second World War. At that time, to prevent drawing attention, this structure was initially referred to as the "Water Tower" on maps. From here, visitors can enjoy a view of the river, along with the many ships that regularly pass through its waters.
Click here, for more info about Coalhouse Point Radar Tower
Parking
Parking at this location is free for all visitors.
The car park is large and has 6 designated blue badge parking bays.
The car park surface is tarmac.
Accessibility
With benches available every 50 meters, this location is perfect for visitors who struggle to walk long distances.
The park features paved paths with gentle slopes, making it accessible for visitors using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Push bikes are permitted in the park, and there is also a paved coastal path, making it ideal for accessible cycling.
For families, the children's play area is about 200 meters from the car park, while the café is just 100 meters away.
The toilets are accessible for disabled visitors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coalhouse Fort Park combines historical interest with natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. With its scenic riverside views, accessible pathways, and amenities like the Engine Room Café and a children’s playground, the park is perfect for leisure and family outings.
Whether for a casual stroll or a day out, Coalhouse Fort Park offers a delightful escape along the River Thames.
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