SUP Canvey Island (Lobster Smack), Essex
On the south-west tip of Canvey Island, the Lobster Smack Inn (as featured in the Dickens novel Great Expectations and popularly known as “The World’s End” in the 18th century!) is beside the island’s most useful launch. The infamous marshes here feel very industrial these days, and the water is extremely tidal and can get pretty choppy, so paddling Holehaven Creek beneath the refineries isn’t for the inexperienced or feint-hearted… But it’s certainly different, and can come into its own in light easterly winds. Definitely head north (turn right, away from the Thames shipping lane!) up to the top of Canvey Island or beyond up Vange Creek to Wat Tyler.