Leysdown Coastal Park

Leysdown Coastal Park is adjacent to the sea wall at Leysdown on the eastern coast of the Isle of Sheppey. Walks along the coastal wall are bracing with great views and plenty of wildlife. A cycle route runs from Leysdown to the Isle of Harty Church and Swale National Nature Reserve Leysdown is a small but lively seaside resort, the beach is mainly shingle, with some stretches of sand, lots of shells and shallow waters that are great for paddling. It is also a famous landmark in aviation history. At the beginning of the 20th century the American Wright Brothers, pioneers of early flight, made the Isle of Sheppey a focal point of British aviation. They commissioned the Short brothers, who had already set up a factory on land between Leysdown and Shellness, to build aeroplanes to fly at Eastchurch. Nearby Muswell Manor was the headquarters for the early aviators and subsequently became the base for the Royal Aero Club of Great Britain. The first pilot’s licence was issued here. Today the Grade II listed building is a popular holiday centre with lots of early aviation memorabilia. For further information about the Isle of Sheppey visit http://visit.swale.gov.uk/assets/Visit-Swale/Files/Sheppey-Family-Country-Break.pdf