Walton-on-the-Naze
is a town on the Essex coast. It is north of the resort of Clacton on Sea and south of the port of Harwich; approximately
8 miles/13 kms away by road from each. It is adjacent to the resort of Frinton-on-Sea to the south.
The name 'Walton' is a common one meaning a 'farmstead or village of
the Britons. Today, Walton on Naze is a small resort town with its coastal area, in recognition of
its outstanding nature and conservation value, having national and international protection. The Naze itself is a Site of "Special Scientific Interest" due to its fossil
cliffs. The John Weston Nature Reserve on the Naze is a "Special Protection Area" and the area of water behind the
Naze, called Hamford Water and Walton Backwaters is a National Nature Reserve and is recognised as being an internationally
important wetland for birds and well as a breeding ground for a colony of harbour and grey seals.
Historically, the Hanoverian
tower (more commonly known as the Naze Tower) was a sea mark to assist ships. Now, visitors can climb the 111-step spiral staircase to the top of the 86-foot (26m) tower for a 360 degree
view of the beach and countryside. The tower features a museum
and a private art gallery on six floors with changing exhibits several times a year, and a tea room. Due to the erosion
of the cliffs, in another 50 years the sea may have claimed the Naze Tower.
Another attraction is the
Pier. The original Walton Pier was built in 1830, one of the earliest in the country, was built for landing goods and
passengers from steamers and was 300 ft long (91m). The pier was badly damaged in a storm in the 1890s but a longer replacement
pier was built and several extensions since have increased the pier's length to 2,600 ft (790m), the third longest in
the UK. Today, the pier remains a popular attraction, with amusements and fun-fair rides. Beyond this, the pier extends
into a promenade popular with anglers.
