ESSEX CHALLENGE SERIES #5

UPMISNTER - LEIGH ON SEA

For regular hikers looking for a long distance challenge

This is it - the final event in the Essex Challenge Series.

The Upminster to Leigh-on-Sea route (40km) is the ultimate test of endurance, resilience, and mindset. It’s the longest distance in the series and a true challenge from start to finish.

Covering a full 40km, this route will push you physically and mentally, demanding consistency, pacing, and determination every step of the way. By this point, it’s not just about fitness, it’s about grit.

But with that challenge comes an incredible reward.

Finishing at the Essex coastline in Leigh-on-Sea, this is a route that gives you a moment to take it all in what you’ve completed, what you’ve pushed through, and what you’re capable of.

Expect a long, demanding day on your feet. A steady 5km/h pace, tired legs, and moments where you’ll need to dig deeper than before.

Whether you’ve taken on the full series or are stepping in for one final, standout challenge, this is one you’ll remember.

What to expect

• A 40km linear route across varied terrain

• A steady but purposeful pace - 5km/h

• A supportive, motivating group pushing to the finish

• A coastal finish that makes every mile worth it

• Extended time on your feet - This is a full day challenge

 Who is it for?

• Those experienced with long-distance hiking (30km+)

• Anyone who has built up through the series or similar distances

• People ready to take on a serious endurance challenge

• Not suitable for beginners

  
  

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Many people come along on their own and quickly get chatting.

Our hikes are designed to be welcoming and inclusive, and Jack and the team are there to make sure everyone feels comfortable and supported throughout the day.

Everyone was new once. 😊

The Need-to-Knows

Start location: Upminster Station Upminster RM14, UK (£6.50 parking per day or accessible via the District or overground lines)

Finish location: Leigh on Sea

Travel: This is a linear route so you will need to arrange travel back from Leigh on Sea to Upminster Station

Hike Start Time: Arrival at 07:20am for an 07:30am start

Distance: Approximately 40 km linear route

Difficulty: Challenge – Difficult

Finish Time: Around 18:30, depending on group pace and breaks.

What’s included?

🧭 Guided hike led by the Essex Adventures team

 🤝 Full support throughout the hike

 📝 Full kit list (provided upon booking)

 💬 Access to the community and a dedicated event group

What do I need to bring?

🙂 Yourself – We start at Upminster Station

🎒 Day backpack – You'll need space for water, lunch, snacks and spare layers

💧 Water – We recommend 2–3 litres for this distance - There will be stops for refill opportunities

🍫 Food / snacks – Bring a proper packed lunch plus energy snacks to keep you fuelled throughout the day

🥾 Suitable footwear – Walking boots strongly recommended as sections of the route are uneven

🧥 Layers – Weather in the UK can change quickly so come prepared

📸 Camera – The Essex country side will offer some beautiful viewpoints along the route

Limited Spaces

To keep the group friendly and manageable on a longer challenge hike, spaces are limited.

Book early to avoid missing out.

Any Questions?

Please check out our FAQs on the main website, or contact us via Instagram, Facebook or WhatsApp.

There’s no such thing as a silly question, we’re always happy to help.

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It

Community is at the heart of what we do, and feedback from our members helps us make sure we practice what we preach.

"Today was the 2nd trek I have completed with Essex adventures and I have to say it did not disappoint. From ease of organisation, clear communication to the meticulous detail of the route plans, Jack and team made this a truly memorable experience. A 24 kilometre hill hike passed in the blink of an eye because it was pure fun and full of laughs. Great day guys, thank you for your conversations and encouragement and can not wait to book another adventure! And just to add, for anyone debating doing to do a trek solo and not part of a wider group, don’t hesitate, the team will make you feel more than welcome!" Ilona, March -26

"My friend came across one of Jacks leaflets and asked me to go a long and try it out , I love the outdoors and wanted to meet new friends , we met Jack for the first time and found him very very welcoming and friendly which made us feel relaxed straight away , his routes are fun and definitely adventurous and we have seen some beautiful sceneries along the way , he always checks to see if everyone is ok , with Jacks hikes I will assure you that you will keep going back for more , thank you Jack for your great input in them all :))" Kelly, Nov-24

Join Us!

Whether you’re planning to take on the full series or simply want to test yourself with a one-off long-distance challenge, this route is the perfect way to challenge yourself

Go all in, push to the finish, and earn every step of that coastline

Jack & the Essex Adventures Team