MIRACLE MARSH

A ghost-white owl eases over reeds, wings cracking. A curlew burbles, a hawk arrows fast, veers away as the fleeing bird drops hard toward the slick mud. In fast twisting flight, wigeon drakes whistle with phew of surprise. Four hundred lapwings swoop and swirl, tickertape in the dawn sunshine, for a second absorbed. In a blink the sky ripples and they are dark again. In spring, days will fast-lengthen, brent geese gone to Arctic climes, larks above the meadow. There will be a clamour of gull and wader, the light of sky in water, glossy green growth of sea beet and alexanders. By May, the river wall will be swaying with lacy cow parsley. Around the Walton Backwaters, known on maps as Hamford Water, are accessible river walls and long walks, many locations to stop for picnic. Park and walk down from Kirby le Soken, then go for tea at the Naze Centre by Walton Tower for a dramatic view inland to the islands and marsh.

SEE FOR YOURSELF

Hamford Water is a tidal inlet on the Essex coast around a mile north of the seaside resort of Walton-on-the-Naze. A footpath follows the southern shore of Hamford water, with views of Horsey Island, Honey Island and Skipper’s Island, and there are waymarked trails on the Naze, the headland that protects Hamford Water from the sea. Take the coast road north out of the town and follow it to the Naze car park, where you will also find a visitor centre with café and gift shop. And don’t forget the binoculars – and a decent field guide. www.essexwt.org.uk/ reserves/naze