An introduction to the Greater Thames Estuary.

On our short stay with Angela and Dennis in Essex they were kind enough to show us the diversity of the Greater Thames Estuary which is on their doorstep. First stop was Thameside Nature Discovery Park which sits on reclaimed land on the mudflats, it offers sanctuary for wild life plus excellent views  over them towards the large container port and its ship to shore cranes. 

Next stop was Coalhouse Fort  built during the 19th century to guard the estuary.

Then it was further inland to Tilbery and its docks and its fort, an excellent way to spend an afternoon. 

Image courtesy of Wikipedia 

P.S.

You know I love a coincidence...we met fiends of Angela & Dennis in the carpark  at Coalhouse Fort who in discussion mentioned they had friends near Darvel in Ayrshre, where we had been staying with other friends on the 6th .