Brewes one

Slow Way not verified yet. Verify Brewes here.

The intention behind this route is inviting: walk from Brentwood to West Horndon utilising pleasant woodland leading to a local, well known Country Park which you then walk the length of. Unfortunately the connection between the top of Thorndon Country Park and West Horndon requires you to cross the busy A127 Southend Arterial Road which is very far from being safe and, as such, something we did not attempt. See photos 1 & 2. Sadly, I am unaware of any nearby safe routes - e.g. a footbridge - which would enable this route to work. Effectively West Horndon is cut off to pedestrians from and to Brentwood.

The recommended route through "Hartswood" through to Thorndon is absolutely fine but I would suggest avoiding the crossing across The Avenue marked on the route as this is on a busy corner that has poor sight lines. An alternative, well marked crossing approximately 50 metres back up the road from the corner is much safer.

The route through Thorndon is effective and picturesque although a couple of sections are overgrown and not easy to pass through. Once you have walked the long field section (which usually contains grazing cattle so be aware of this if you are accompanied by a dog) you come to a cross path. (See photo 3) The route suggests you go straight on but if you follow that way you encounter some of the worst of the overgrown paths (see photo 4). My suggestion would be to take the left hand path which you can then follow towards the lake and the final bit of path out of Thorndon.

In summary, a nice route of you want a walk through the Country Park but not one that can be safely utilised to reach West Horndon.

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