Join James Lawrence, AKA Man About Country, for a special guided walk around Canvey Wick, one of Essex’s (and England’s) most fascinating nature reserves. In this brownfield rainforest you’ll discover wildlife, hear stories from over 2,000 years of Canvey Island history, and explore how these incredible places can supercharge your creative practice in unexpected ways.
Tickets: £10 includes packed lunch
Book tickets: eventbrite booking link coming soon – keep an eye out on Metal website, socials and newsletter for updates.

Essex Writers House is a month-long programme hosted by Metal, based in Southend. Chalkwell Hall opens its doors through June as a creative hub, offering a range of events from talks, open advice sessions and workshops to collaborative workspaces for writers, story tellers and book lovers of all levels. Find out more at essexbookfestival.org.uk/event/essex-writers-house-2026/.


