Heron Point

The Thames gets properly industrial as it swings round near Tilbury, and Heron Point gives you a front-row seat to all that controlled chaos. You're looking out over the river's busiest stretch - container ships, tugs, the whole lot moving through one of Britain's most important ports. The viewing platform itself is straightforward: a raised platform with some interpretation boards that actually tell you what you're watching rather than just waffling about heritage.

It's less "scenic ramble" and more "industrial theatre". The light's best in late afternoon when the sun catches the water and makes the cranes read like something from a Lowry painting. Kids quite like it if they're into big boats - there's usually something moving through - though the novelty wears off after twenty minutes or so. Grown-ups interested in working landscapes and how Britain actually functions will spend longer here, reading the boards and watching the logistics in real time.

If you're staying at Thamesview Camping just down the road, it's an easy walk to stretch your legs and understand what's actually happening on this stretch of water. Don't expect manicured gardens or a café. This is about the view and the activity on it, nothing fussed up. Go when the tide's running and ships are moving - there's no point on a slack day when nothing's happening.