Swanscombe Peninsula Trail

The Swanscombe Peninsula is located on the south bank of the River Thames, opposite Gravesend and Tilbury. The peninsula is part of the borough of Dartford and includes the villages of Swanscombe, Greenhithe, Stone and Northfleet. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was an important industrial centre during the Industrial Revolution. It is now home to a number of large industrial sites, including a cement works, power station and oil refinery. The area also contains several nature reserves, including Greenhithe Local Nature Reserve and Swanscombe Marsh Local Nature Reserve.

Swanscombe is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates:

Birds: The Swanscombe Peninsula is home to a wide variety of bird species, including wading birds such as curlews and redshanks, as well as ducks and geese. Other species include skylarks, lapwings and kestrels.

Mammals: The peninsula is home to several species of mammal, including badgers, foxes and rabbits. There are also bats living in the area.

Amphibians: Common frogs and smooth newts can be found in the ponds. 

Reptiles: Grass snakes are common on the peninsula.

Invertebrates: A wide variety of insects can be found, including butterflies and moths. There are also many spiders and other arachnids living in the area.

The walk from Swanscombe high street takes you out onto the marshes along the King Charles III England Coast Path. This is a hidden gem with great views across the river and a surprising mosaic of coastal wildlife habitats.