The area of Shoeburyness and Foulness Island which is today known as MOD Shoeburyness was first used by the military in 1848 when the British School of Gunnery was opened. The location was chosen for this purpose for many reasons including its proximity to London and its direct access to major shipping routes. The area's geographical features make it the ideal location for the MOD's Test and Evaluation requirements with the flat tidal sands providing the large secure safety area needed for long range firing and the recovery of shells. These natural features, coupled with today’s infrastructure and expertise, mean that the site continues to provide an unrivalled and unique UK facility for critical military test, evaluation and training activities.
The MOD is the landowner of the entire estate and there are Public Right of Way (PROW) routes that run over some MOD-owned paths and tracks. Information about using the PROW routes can be found here.
