Dagenham is instantly associated with the huge Ford factory that opened in 1931. However the Dagenham Dock has an industrial history going back to the early 1800’s. This walk will look at a complex history that includes explosives manufacturing, shipbuilding and power generation. You’ll get to see the site where the last battleship built on the Thames was completed, London’s other flood relief barrier, oil storage depot’s, scrapyards and a fantastic stretch of the Thames which is an empty white patch on the A-Z. This is a longer walk – around 5 miles, but fans of Patrick Keiller’s Robinson films, and Iain Sinclair’s books will enjoy being in this extremly off the beaten track part of London.

Bring sandwiches for a lunch stop by the Thames

Reviews of this walk

“Rob Smith’s alternative tour around Dagenham dock charted the rise and fall of some industries in the area. Scenery was concrete and often almost post-apocalyptic interspersed with some surprisingly quiet and beautifully wild sections of the Thames bank. Through some interesting, surprising and sometimes poignant stories, we learned about the microcosm of British history that is Dagenham. Definitely a very alternative but enjoyable exploration of London.” Candice Z

“A fascinating and informative walk with a professional, friendly and knowlegable guide. Highly recommended” Peel Acres

“Fascinating, very well-prepared, well-thought walk in a non-touristy, but very interesting part of London. I had a great time and learnt a lot. Really recommend it.Thank you, Rob” abob

“This was a fascinating few hours. I felt I’d had my moneys worth within the first ten minutes! Rob’s stories allowed us to feel the heartbeat of the area and it’s enormous value to London. His gentle humour and consideration for the entire group was evident. This was my first Footprints Walk but it certainly won’t be my last, highly recommended.” Meryl B

“Went on a walk run by Rob Smith around Dagenham Dock and Barking riverside areas. It was very off the beaten track and all the more interesting for it. It included a lot of the industrial heritage of the area, but also a beautiful stretch of the Thames and the top Romanian wedding venue in London! A highly enjoyable walk with a very knowledgable guide. Will attend again.” Mail310