Amazon Delivery Van Abandoned on Britain’s ‘Deadliest Footpath’ After GPS Error
London, 16 February 2026 – HM Coastguard has issued a safety warning after an Amazon delivery driver abandoned their vehicle on The Broomway, a notorious offshore track in the Thames Estuary. The driver, who was attempting to deliver a parcel to Foulness Island, reportedly followed GPS directions onto the treacherous mudflats before the vehicle became bogged down and partially submerged by the incoming tide.
Incident on The Broomway
The incident occurred on the morning of 15 February 2026, when the driver steered the van via Wakering Stairs onto the ancient track. Known as the “deadliest footpath in Britain,” The Broomway is a 600-year-old route that is only accessible at low tide. When the tide returns, the area is rapidly swallowed by the sea, often trapping those unfamiliar with the local geography.
HM Coastguard Southend confirmed they were called to the scene following reports of the stranded vehicle. The driver managed to escape the van safely before the water levels rose, but the vehicle was left abandoned as the Thames Estuary tide moved in. Amazon has since confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the navigation error.
Key Facts: The Broomway Incident
The following table outlines the specifics of the location and the incident recorded by emergency services.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | The Broomway, Thames Estuary (off the Essex coast) |
| Intended Destination | Foulness Island |
| Primary Cause | GPS/Satnav error leading to offshore track |
| Responding Authority | HM Coastguard Southend |
| Average High Tide (Grain) | 5.4m |
| Vehicle Status | Abandoned and partially submerged; recovery scheduled |
The Danger of the Hoo Peninsula Tides
The area surrounding the Isle of Grain and the Hoo Peninsula is characterised by significant tidal ranges. According to static environmental data, the average high tide height at the Isle of Grain is 5.4m, with maximum recorded heights reaching up to 6.4m. These conditions make the mudflats extremely hazardous for motor vehicles, which can quickly become stuck in the soft clay and silt before being overwhelmed by deep water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is The Broomway considered so dangerous?
The Broomway is often cited as the UK’s deadliest path because it is located offshore and is completely covered by the sea during high tide. The incoming water moves faster than a person can run, and the lack of visible landmarks makes it easy for individuals to lose their bearings and wander into deep water or quicksand.
What happened to the Amazon driver?
The driver was able to exit the vehicle safely and did not require medical treatment. The van, however, could not be recovered immediately due to the rising tide and the unstable nature of the mudflats.
Is Foulness Island accessible by road?
Foulness Island is a restricted area managed by the Ministry of Defence. While there is a road bridge (Landwick Causeway), access is strictly controlled. Delivery drivers often rely on GPS, which may mistakenly suggest The Broomway as a viable shortcut or route, despite it being a tidal track unsuitable for standard vehicles.