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Coalhouse Fort Park

East Tilbury, United Kingdom•4.5(1.5k)•Country Park, Heritage Site

Explore a historic riverside park with a 19th-century fort, children's play area, and picnic spaces ideal for family days out.

Coalhouse Fort Park is a Green Flag Award-winning park located on the banks of the Thames estuary in East Tilbury, offering families a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The park is home to Coalhouse Fort, built during the 19th century to protect the Thames estuary, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore significant historical architecture within a scenic parkland setting. The park features excellent facilities for family visits, including a free car park, children's play area, picnic areas in a parkland setting, and accessible toilets with disabled facilities. A ranger is on site most days to enhance the visitor experience. The Engine Room Café, located near the fort entrance, serves hot and cold drinks, meals, and cakes from 10am to 4pm daily (except Christmas and Boxing Day), with extended summer hours. With its riverside location and quiet walking trails, Coalhouse Fort Park is ideal for families seeking outdoor recreation combined with cultural interest. The park's Green Flag Award status reflects its high standards for maintenance and visitor amenities. The nearby St Catherine's Church, with parts dating from the 13th century, adds to the area's historical appeal, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the local heritage.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Engine Room Café

Café serving hot and cold drinks, hot and cold meals, and cakes, with afternoon tea available on request

Hours: 10:00-16:00 daily (extended hours in summer), closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day

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Google Reviews

4.5(1.5k reviews)
H
Hasitha Subasinghe

Hasitha Subasinghe

3 months ago

Very nice on a sunny day. Surprised by the scenary etc. Kids playing and adults walking. Cafe is reasonable too. Parking is free.

M
Mini Christmas

Mini Christmas

3 months ago

Beautiful park, could easily spend all day here. Free parking and toilets on site. Absolutely stunning area with gorgeous views. Will definitely come back again and try the cafe

R
Rob Jacobs

Rob Jacobs

5 months ago

Lovely place for a walk with lots of paths to explore. Nice little cafe which seems very popular and busy. Free parking for about 60 vehicles. I imagine would be a perfect spot to spend a chilled day in the summer

R
Rosamund Malick

Rosamund Malick

9 months ago

This is a really good place for a dog walk. It’s not too busy, good views, established walk ways and an excellent cafe where amongst other things, you can get a good cappuccino. Plenty of free parking too.

R
ross davey

ross davey

a year ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Hidden Gem Full of History and Beauty Coalhouse Fort is truly one of my special places. Every visit feels like stepping back in time — the fort is absolutely beautiful, steeped in rich history, and surrounded by peaceful parkland and riverside views. Built in the 1860s to defend the Thames from potential invasion, Coalhouse Fort stands as a proud reminder of our military past, and you can feel that powerful history everywhere you walk. The fort and the surrounding park are immaculately kept, offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and tranquility. Whether you’re exploring the old fortifications, walking by the water, or just enjoying the open green spaces, there’s a real sense of connection to the past here that’s hard to find elsewhere. I really hope the council continues to invest in this incredible site — it deserves to be preserved for future generations to enjoy and learn from. It’s a place that holds so many memories for me, and I know it could mean just as much to others. Coalhouse Fort is a true treasure, and I can’t recommend it highly enough!

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Coalhouse Fort Park

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Coalhouse Fort Park

Is Coalhouse Fort Park free to visit?

Entry to Coalhouse Fort Park is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Coalhouse Fort Park suitable for?

Coalhouse Fort Park is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Coalhouse Fort Park dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Coalhouse Fort Park.

Is there parking at Coalhouse Fort Park?

Yes, Coalhouse Fort Park has on-site parking.

Is there food at Coalhouse Fort Park?

Yes — Engine Room Café is on site at Coalhouse Fort Park. Café serving hot and cold drinks, hot and cold meals, and cakes, with afternoon tea available on request

Is Coalhouse Fort Park pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Coalhouse Fort Park is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Coalhouse Fort Park?

Coalhouse Fort Park is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Coalhouse Fort Park by public transport?

Coalhouse Fort Park isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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