Walks and Journeys
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The Essex Coastline
Free Event
About
In 2025, James Lawrence is undertaking The Essex Ways: a 400km walking journey through some of the most remote areas of his home county. With generous support from Essex County Council's Art and Cultural Fund, he will be gathering stories of all kinds whether from Essex residents, old books, or the many different landscapes he encounters.
These stories will be woven together and shared in a series of storytelling performances to celebrate the many ways of Essex: to reconnect communities with their local natural spaces, and increase pride, empowerment and resilience against climate change.
You're warmly invited to join James for part of his walk. You'll be rewarded with a tale or two about the local area, as well as seeing the beautiful Essex coastline through new eyes. And if you'd like to share a story of your own; be it old folklore or a story about your life in Essex; James would especially love to hear from you! With your blessing, your story will be preserved as part of a collection to show the real spirit of Essex in all its many forms.
James' coastal walk will begin in Harwich on Saturday 3rd May and finish in Tilbury on Thursday 15th May. You are welcome to meet James for a short amount of time (15-30mins) to hear or exchange stories, or you can join James to walk a longer stretch of coastline - whatever you prefer.
For guidance on where James will be walking on a specific day, details on how your stories will be shared, or to arrange to join the walk for a small section, you can find details on James' website.
Access & Accessibility
The terrain will vary from concrete promenade to remote marsh, with the pace varying from gentle to challenging. Please contact James to discuss locations best suited to your activity level.