Array
(
    [id] => 01kz6mn81pm20g8pz60v87kxtc
    [published] => 1
    [name] => The Wild Side of Essex: Exploring the Naze & Walton Backwaters (Day Trip)
    [code] => GBR169
    [slug] => the-wild-side-of-essex-the-naze-and-the-walton-backwaters-day-trip
    [description] => 
Join all-round naturalist Chris Gibson for an exploration of the far north-east of the county of Essex, a place of interest to all, from birdwatchers to geologists. Much of the day will be spent on the headland of Naze itself, providing the chance to explore the cliff-top bushes, grassy slopes, beach and cliffs. The picturesque Red Crag cliffs are of international significance and reveal the story of our past 50 million years. A walk along the beach will give an opportunity to search for fossils, including sharks’ teeth, whale bone and Ice Age seashells.
Heading into the embayment of Hamford Water (also known as the Walton Backwaters – or to afficionados of Arthur Ransome's ‘Secret Water’), we will explore low sand dune and saltmarsh habitats, and mudflats and grazing marshes as we return to the car park along the sea wall around Walton Hall Marshes.
This day will suit anyone with a broad set of interests in the natural world, brought to life by a tour leader who spent his career putting Essex on the wildlife map. The natural interests will vary with the seasons, but whatever is happening around us, whatever the weather, the geology will always be there! The length of the walk will be 6-8 km on easy going terrain, starting at 9am and finishing at around 5pm. For anyone wishing to travel by train, the meeting point is 30 minutes’ walk north from Walton-on-the-Naze station.
We have scheduled some departure dates which can be taken back-to-back with The Wild Side of Essex - The Colne Estuary.
What you will see on any walk will be very different from the same walk in a different season, so why not plan on returning? Please see our 'Detailed Information' below for further details on each season.
From birds to bugs to botany, galls to geology, this day will lift the lid on the sometimes surprising ‘wild side of Essex’.

A huge range of interests covered – birds, botany, entomology and geology
Explore the headland of Naze for birds, rare plants and insects, waders and wildfowl
Walk along the beach and search for sharks' teeth
Unrivalled local knowledge from expert leader Chris Gibson

    [introduction] => A fascinating exploration of the Naze and Walton Backwaters focusing on its special wildlife and geology. From birds, coastal plants and insects, mammals, fossils and much more!
    [edges] => Array
        (
        )

    [locations] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [name] => The United Kingdom
                    [description] => 
From the rolling heaths and woodlands of the New Forest National Park to the extensive wetlands that line the north Norfolk coastline, the varied habitats and landscapes of the British Isles are home to a wealth of exciting wildlife. It is definitely not essential to go abroad when wildlife holidays in Britain offer such diversity!
                    [images] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEAQE1JWFMN3X4QGN92Z55Y.jpg
                                    [title] => Atlantic Puffins
                                )

                            [1] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG3B4QJSMY3AWY19YV1DV0.jpg
                                    [title] => Black Grouse (2)
                                )

                            [2] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFX155PYR30RJABNMTZZPT.jpg
                                    [title] => Red Deer Shutterstock 328414469
                                )

                            [3] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFXV60NK8GWQTPB1TK64K4.jpg
                                    [title] => High Force Waterfall, The Pennines Shutterstock 297554696
                                )

                            [4] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEE9ZWK5QQR2RSN6KC31B7W.jpg
                                    [title] => Starling Murmuration, Somerset, England Shutterstock 562750975
                                )

                            [5] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFZ2D8698VHRS1FCSEASRW.jpg
                                    [title] => Peat Moors, South Uist Shutterstock 9901387
                                )

                            [6] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEKEB09PRN3RCC287HK73D1.jpg
                                    [title] => Barn Owl
                                )

                            [7] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEJ9J5EC6NB94H1G93XETYH.jpg
                                    [title] => Avocet
                                )

                            [8] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM2AP7MXW0HENCM15EG3WC.jpg
                                    [title] => White-tailed Sea Eagle
                                )

                            [9] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKENE35BZSJGQC6X7NRA2V5A.jpg
                                    [title] => Gannet Rock, Alderney Shutterstock 786517642
                                )

                            [10] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFX5MK6P13MJ9ZB2HVRCAB.jpg
                                    [title] => Bittern
                                )

                            [11] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFZ51T0V728GFWZVH8Z126.jpg
                                    [title] => Naturetrek group looking for Great White Egret (Ed Drewitt)
                                )

                            [12] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEKTSDXAC26Z78KTS7KMX5F.jpg
                                    [title] => Gannet colony Les Etacs Alderney (Martin Batt)
                                )

                            [13] => Array
                                (
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG2YN7AAJK6PMC94RAA6B9.jpg
                                    [title] => Otters Scotland Shutterstock 361574771
                                )

                        )

                    [parent] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Europe
                        )

                )

        )

    [categories] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [name] => Day Trip
                    [parent] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Tour Focus
                        )

                )

        )

    [fields] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => NumberFieldData
                    [name] => tz3_id
                    [number] => 17206
                )

            [1] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                    [name] => videos
                    [string] => 
                )

            [2] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringListFieldData
                    [name] => good_time_to_go
                    [values] => 
                )

            [3] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                    [name] => start_point_lat
                    [string] => 51.86305642418249
                )

            [4] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringListFieldData
                    [name] => tour_expert
                    [values] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Tom Mabbett
                        )

                )

            [5] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                    [name] => relatedtrips
                    [string] => 
                )

            [6] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => NumberFieldData
                    [name] => carbon_with_flights
                    [number] => 1.5
                )

            [7] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringListFieldData
                    [name] => best_time_to_go
                    [values] => 
                )

            [8] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                    [name] => start_point_long
                    [string] => 1.2869453430175781
                )

            [9] => Array
                (
                    [__typename] => NumberFieldData
                    [name] => carbon_without_flights
                    [number] => 1.5
                )

        )

    [details] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01kz9anr3h1k34v85vz7t6pzwn
                    [title] => GBR169 Detailed Info
                    [content] => 
Winter (Nov-Feb):
Waterbirds feature heavily over winter, with Bar-tailed Godwits, Sanderlings and Brent Geese prominent among a whole host of other wildfowl and waders, and hopefully also Kingfishers and raptors, including Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin and Barn and Short-eared Owls. Mammals could include Harbour and Grey Seals, with an outside chance of an Otter. Smaller birds on the beach and in the bushes might include Rock Pipit, Stonechat, Cetti’s Warbler, Snow Bunting, Twite and very likely some impressive flocks of Starlings, while seawatching could produce Red-throated and Great Northern Divers, Eiders and Common Scoter. While plants in flower will be few and far between, the saltmarshes and sand dune habitats retain much of botanical interest through the winter, each hosting a suite of species specially adapted to the environmentally stressful conditions. If not too frosty, the maritime grassland will continue to produce fungi and flowers, and even attract a few butterflies and other insects in winter sunshine. Whatever, an abundance of fresh air is guaranteed!

Spring (Mar-May):
As spring progresses, the estuarine waterbirds decline in number, although those that remain begin to assume breeding plumage; Brent Geese in particular stay in good numbers through the spring months. Summer migrants are returning, starting with Sand Martins (which breed on the cliffs) and Wheatears in March, going right through to Swifts and (maybe) Spotted Flycatchers in May. Seawatching is likely to produce migrating terns of several species, and Mediterranean Gulls, with a good chance of Harbour Porpoise if the sea state is sufficiently calm. As with seals, Porpoises can be seen all year round, but may be disturbed at busier times of the year. The Red Crag cliff slopes have good displays of Colt’s-foot and in warm weather, Green Tiger-beetles; sand dunes equally come into bloom early, with spring annuals such as Small Forget-me-not and Sea Mouse-ear. The sand dunes also support one of the strongest Black Oil-beetle colonies in Essex and as spring advances, Green Hairstreaks will be on the wing. Patches of flowering Alexanders are likely to be a focus for insect action.

Summer (Jun-Aug):
The saltmarshes reveal their botanical riches, with swathes of Sea Pink and Sea Lavender; indeed, interesting plants are everywhere, from Sea Spurge on the dunes, to Bird’s-foot Fenugreek in the maritime turf, as the sea walls light up with Grass Vetchling and Sea Clover. Sea walls in particular abound with butterflies, especially browns and skippers, while dragonflies are at their peak, starting with Hairy Dragonfly in June to the hawkers and darters of high summer. Harbour Seals will be breeding in the Backwaters, as too the birds – Oystercatchers and Redshanks on the beaches and marshes, Common and Little Terns, warblers in the scrub and reedbeds, and Sand Martins on the cliffs. By July, the first returning waders, usually in smart summer plumage, start to drift through, while tern movements offshore can be very impressive, sometimes accompanied by skuas.

Autumn (Sep-Oct):
Saltmarshes are in the full flush of autumn colour, with several species of Glasswort, and the last flowerings of Sea Aster and Golden Samphire, hopefully attracting butterflies and the rare Sea Aster Mining-bee, while reedbeds and grazing marshes will provide opportunities for birds such as Cetti’s Warblers. Willow Emerald damselflies, Common Darters and Migrant Hawkers are likely to be flying, and wherever there is flowering Ivy, it will be attracting late season butterflies, hoverflies and bees. If the preceding weather has been conducive, we may encounter an array of fungi, especially waxcaps in the clifftop turf and dunes. Being autumn, migrant birds may turn up anywhere – although not guaranteed – and could include chats, warblers and the first winter thrushes. The clifftop can provide a great vantage point for visible migration, from finches overhead to Gannets offshore. Waders and wildfowl numbers are building in Walton Backwaters, with Brent Geese moving in as autumn progresses, and Sanderling and Bar-tailed Godwit on the beach.
                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [id] => 01kz645bdvw11176197pg8grq6
                            [name] => Holiday Details
                            [parent] => 
                        )

                )

        )

    [information] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01kz9ajhar4e9jxmnq3sqz3d3a
                    [title] => Why Naturetrek?
                    [content] => 
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!
                    [images] => Array
                        (
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [id] => 01kz645am7q9hxhycy9f86n0x1
                            [name] => Why Naturetrek?
                            [parent] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01kz6459j706bebwbvqefrf8s9
                                    [name] => Holiday Information
                                )

                        )

                )

            [1] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01kz9ajhcxkv4hqg1fzespc46v
                    [title] => Why Naturetrek Tailormade?
                    [content] => 
A Naturetrek Tailormade holiday allows you, with the benefit of our wildlife travel expertise and destination experience, to enjoy the perfect private wildlife holiday – one that truly matches your requirements, expectations and ambitions. We will ensure the most competitive prices, superb naturalist guides and seamless ground services.
Some of the benefits of Naturetrek Tailormade travel include:
• A bespoke itinerary which is crafted by experts and designed specifically for you
• Private guiding by the very best local naturalists 
• Travel with people you know, at your own pace
• Incorporate as much culture, history or relaxation time as you wish
• Choose dates to suit you
• Select your preferred style of accommodation
• Travel with families and children of any age
Furthermore, our Tailormade team are always on hand to help and guide you along the way, with friendly advice, first-hand knowledge and inside information specific to your destination of choice. So if you have any queries about your holiday, we will be delighted to answer them. Please just give us a call!
                    [images] => Array
                        (
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [id] => 01kz645arw3zjhj3pt5az0y9ey
                            [name] => Why Naturetrek Tailormade?
                            [parent] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01kz6459j706bebwbvqefrf8s9
                                    [name] => Holiday Information
                                )

                        )

                )

        )

    [essentials] => Array
        (
        )

    [tailormade_map] => Array
        (
        )

    [videos] => Array
        (
        )

    [price_info_boxes] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01m1ebdnevqqz4he2je6yp7w78
                    [title] => Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?
                    [content] => 
For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.
                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Private Group Info Box
                        )

                    [images] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01m1ekeqp8zd4y9dm7ba8cwkv8
                                    [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01M1EKEQP8ZD4Y9DM7BA8CWKV7.webp
                                )

                        )

                )

        )

    [itinerary_image] => Array
        (
        )

    [images] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkea3ntm9w6sjxec8zetr0cy
                    [title] => Northern Wheatear shutterstock_403633639.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:rlkdy1xyhppw
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 3126
                    [width] => 4688
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NTM9W6SJXEC8ZETR0CX.jpg?width=1080
                )

            [1] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkea3nztefjkqrmam2y9bzjz
                    [title] => Southern Hawker shutterstock_727165024.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:8lhwmy7bnc8x
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 2000
                    [width] => 3000
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3NZTEFJKQRMAM2Y9BZJY.jpg?width=1080
                )

            [2] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkea3smp61fddncdctcb2r1k
                    [title] => Sand Martin shutterstock_1149291731.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:vcbqqoohfs6g
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 3456
                    [width] => 5184
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEA3SMP61FDDNCDCTCB2R1J.jpg?width=1080
                )

            [3] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkebbq8qb9ba0653n5drt98v
                    [title] => Grey Seal shutterstock_1404609767.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:5ylopcy0dtiu
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 3931
                    [width] => 5897
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQ8QB9BA0653N5DRT98T.jpg?width=1080
                )

            [4] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkebbqjwbvnr6m7n7e3a4b04
                    [title] => Female Merlin shutterstock_193864391.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:qwoc106mynkn
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 2204
                    [width] => 3306
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQJWBVNR6M7N7E3A4B03.jpg?width=1080
                )

            [5] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01jkebbqz10qvqcz9bk0219wvh
                    [title] => Ring Ouzel shutterstock_1587980233.jpg
                    [tags] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => assetzen:ift29uaxvwcc
                        )

                    [category] => Array
                        (
                            [name] => Images
                        )

                    [height] => 3508
                    [width] => 5307
                    [published] => 1
                    [full] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=1200&height=700&aspect_ratio=1200%3A700&crop_gravity=center
                    [hero] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=1600&height=1000&aspect_ratio=1600%3A1000&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_big] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=800&height=500&aspect_ratio=800%3A500&crop_gravity=center
                    [thumb_small] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=300&height=200&aspect_ratio=300%3A200&crop_gravity=center
                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=300
                    [gallery_original] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEBBQZ10QVQCZ9BK0219WVG.jpg?width=1080
                )

        )

    [versions] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [id] => 01kz6mn8fwj3wg2b8evrqwvv57
                    [name] => The Wild Side of Essex: Exploring the Naze & Walton Backwaters (Day Trip)
                    [code] => GBR169-1
                    [ordering] => 1
                    [introduction] => 
                    [description] => 
                    [accommodations] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01kz8yhn8dtwmnmz0w6v6v5zmc
                                    [name] => Alladale Lodge
                                    [slug] => alladale-lodge
                                    [description] => 
                                    [introduction] => The extensive Alladale Lodge, with 7-ensuite bedrooms, can be hired out exclusively for large families or groups of friends; whilst two other properties on the 23,000-acre reserve cater for 4-10 guests. All properties offer full board and guided activities can be hand-picked as part of your stay.
                                    [locations] => Array
                                        (
                                            [0] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [name] => The United Kingdom
                                                )

                                            [1] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [name] => Alladale Wilderness Reserve
                                                )

                                        )

                                    [images] => Array
                                        (
                                            [0] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5kcv7g9ama2xpyw9e1s4
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge
                                                    [height] => 2160
                                                    [width] => 3840
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5KCV7G9AMA2XPYW9E1S3.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5KCV7G9AMA2XPYW9E1S3.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                            [1] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5kn56rt8ax2zj948t6xj
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge - bathroom
                                                    [height] => 1655
                                                    [width] => 2480
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5KN56RT8AX2ZJ948T6XH.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5KN56RT8AX2ZJ948T6XH.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                            [2] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5k59zr8vk3nhnb2ma44b
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge - Wildcat
                                                    [height] => 3712
                                                    [width] => 5568
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5K59ZR8VK3NHNB2MA44A.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5K59ZR8VK3NHNB2MA44A.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                            [3] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5jpcf3w3jrefkpahfrjh
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge - dining
                                                    [height] => 1655
                                                    [width] => 2480
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JPCF3W3JREFKPAHFRJG.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JPCF3W3JREFKPAHFRJG.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                            [4] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5jwz75jq0hw72ytzej09
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge - wildlife
                                                    [height] => 2592
                                                    [width] => 3872
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JWZ75JQ0HW72YTZEJ08.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JWZ75JQ0HW72YTZEJ08.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                            [5] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01jkeb5jg3fxt1cz8e7af8z7ma
                                                    [title] => Alladale Lodge - bedroom
                                                    [height] => 1655
                                                    [width] => 2480
                                                    [published] => 1
                                                    [gallery] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JG3FXT1CZ8E7AF8Z7M9.jpg?width=780&height=520&aspect_ratio=780%3A520&crop_gravity=center
                                                    [gallery_thumb] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEB5JG3FXT1CZ8E7AF8Z7M9.jpg?width=110&height=80&aspect_ratio=110%3A80&crop_gravity=center
                                                )

                                        )

                                    [categories] => Array
                                        (
                                        )

                                    [accommodation_content] => Array
                                        (
                                        )

                                )

                        )

                    [map] => 
                    [fields] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [__typename] => NumberFieldData
                                    [name] => tz3_id
                                    [number] => 7344
                                )

                            [1] => Array
                                (
                                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                                    [name] => map_json
                                    [string] => 
                                )

                            [2] => Array
                                (
                                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                                    [name] => tz3_extra_info
                                    [string] => 
                                )

                            [3] => Array
                                (
                                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                                    [name] => itinerary_image
                                    [string] => 
                                )

                        )

                    [locations] => Array
                        (
                        )

                    [elements] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01kz6mn8mq46bdf8a356j7wnxn
                                    [name] => Tour Space
                                    [is_package] => 1
                                    [options] => Array
                                        (
                                            [0] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01kz6mn8pkdbqmb0yr6wbwezr6
                                                    [name] => Land Only
                                                    [leadPrice] => Array
                                                        (
                                                            [value] => 60
                                                            [previous_value] => 0
                                                            [currency] => GBP
                                                        )

                                                )

                                        )

                                )

                        )

                    [itinerary] => Array
                        (
                        )

                    [departures] => Array
                        (
                            [0] => Array
                                (
                                    [id] => 01m0830sq25taya537mb3mbkwd
                                    [published] => 1
                                    [start] => 2026-10-16 00:00:00
                                    [end] => 2026-10-16 00:00:00
                                    [range_type] => Fixed
                                    [version] => Array
                                        (
                                            [id] => 01kz6mn8fwj3wg2b8evrqwvv57
                                            [name] => The Wild Side of Essex: Exploring the Naze & Walton Backwaters (Day Trip)
                                        )

                                    [inventory] => Array
                                        (
                                            [type] => Allocation
                                            [capacity] => 5
                                            [errata] => 
                                        )

                                    [categories] => Array
                                        (
                                        )

                                    [fields] => Array
                                        (
                                            [0] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [__typename] => NumberFieldData
                                                    [name] => tz3_id
                                                    [number] => 72187
                                                )

                                            [1] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [__typename] => BoolFieldData
                                                    [name] => is_private
                                                    [bool] => 
                                                )

                                            [2] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [__typename] => BoolFieldData
                                                    [name] => late_availability
                                                    [bool] => 
                                                )

                                            [3] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [__typename] => StringListFieldData
                                                    [name] => tour_leaders
                                                    [values] => Array
                                                        (
                                                        )

                                                )

                                            [4] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [__typename] => StringFieldData
                                                    [name] => room_share
                                                    [string] => 
                                                )

                                        )

                                    [elements] => Array
                                        (
                                            [0] => Array
                                                (
                                                    [id] => 01m0830sqvrdq1ssfk8snzy1eb
                                                    [element] => Array
                                                        (
                                                            [id] => 01kz6mn8mq46bdf8a356j7wnxn
                                                            [category] => Array
                                                                (
                                                                    [name] => Tour Space
                                                                )

                                                            [name] => Tour Space
                                                            [published] => 1
                                                            [is_package] => 1
                                                        )

                                                    [prices] => Array
                                                        (
                                                            [0] => Array
                                                                (
                                                                    [id] => 01m0830srhh3h1aefpk8vvp05m
                                                                    [currency] => GBP
                                                                    [value] => 60
                                                                    [on_sale] => 1
                                                                    [previous_value] => 0
                                                                    [deposit] => 
                                                                    [option] => Array
                                                                        (
                                                                            [id] => 01kz6mn8pkdbqmb0yr6wbwezr6
                                                                            [name] => Land Only
                                                                            [category] => Array
                                                                                (
                                                                                    [name] => Package
                                                                                )

                                                                            [constraints] => Array
                                                                                (
                                                                                    [min_age] => 0
                                                                                    [max_age] => 
                                                                                    [passenger_sex] => 
                                                                                )

                                                                            [web_bookable] => 1
                                                                            [published] => 1
                                                                        )

                                                                )

                                                        )

                                                )

                                        )

                                )

                        )

                )

        )

)

The Wild Side of Essex: Exploring the Naze & Walton Backwaters (Day Trip)

Tour Code: GBR169

A fascinating exploration of the Naze and Walton Backwaters focusing on its special wildlife and geology. From birds, coastal plants and insects, mammals, fossils and much more!

£60

Land Only

Book Now Saved Tours Saved! View all saved tours

Why Choose Naturetrek?

50+ Trustpilot Reviews

45+ Google Reviews

Click any badge to read more reviews

Paused

Paused

Paused

Paused

Paused

Paused

Tour Itinerary and Reports

This tour has no documents available.

Can I Help You?

Tom Mabbett

Operations Manager

Email Call 1-844-433-9473

Carbon Footprint

1.5kg CO2e

What does this mean?

Enquire about this holiday

Please complete all required fields!

Please enter the tour title

Please enter your name

Please enter your phone

Please enter your email address

Please enter your question

Submit

Highlights

• A huge range of interests covered – birds, botany, entomology and geology
• Explore the headland of Naze for birds, rare plants and insects, waders and wildfowl
• Walk along the beach and search for sharks' teeth
• Unrivalled local knowledge from expert leader Chris Gibson

Summary

Winter (Nov-Feb):Waterbirds feature heavily over winter, with Bar-tailed Godwits, Sanderlings and Brent Geese prominent among a whole host of other wildfowl and waders, and hopefully also Kingfishers and raptors, including Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin and Barn and Short-eared Owls. Mammals could include Harbour and Grey Seals, with an outside chance of an Otter. Smaller birds on the beach and in the bushes might include Rock Pipit, Stonechat, Cetti’s Warbler, Snow Bunting, Twite and very likely some impressive flocks of Starlings, while seawatching could produce Red-throated and Great Northern Divers, Eiders and Common Scoter. While plants in flower will be few and far between, the saltmarshes and sand dune habitats retain much of botanical interest through the winter, each hosting a suite of species specially adapted to the environmentally stressful conditions. If not too frosty, the maritime grassland will continue to produce fungi and flowers, and even attract a few butterflies and other insects in winter sunshine. Whatever, an abundance of fresh air is guaranteed!

Spring (Mar-May):As spring progresses, the estuarine waterbirds decline in number, although those that remain begin to assume breeding plumage; Brent Geese in particular stay in good numbers through the spring months. Summer migrants are returning, starting with Sand Martins (which breed on the cliffs) and Wheatears in March, going right through to Swifts and (maybe) Spotted Flycatchers in May. Seawatching is likely to produce migrating terns of several species, and Mediterranean Gulls, with a good chance of Harbour Porpoise if the sea state is sufficiently calm. As with seals, Porpoises can be seen all year round, but may be disturbed at busier times of the year. The Red Crag cliff slopes have good displays of Colt’s-foot and in warm weather, Green Tiger-beetles; sand dunes equally come into bloom early, with spring annuals such as Small Forget-me-not and Sea Mouse-ear. The sand dunes also support one of the strongest Black Oil-beetle colonies in Essex and as spring advances, Green Hairstreaks will be on the wing. Patches of flowering Alexanders are likely to be a focus for insect action.

Summer (Jun-Aug):The saltmarshes reveal their botanical riches, with swathes of Sea Pink and Sea Lavender; indeed, interesting plants are everywhere, from Sea Spurge on the dunes, to Bird’s-foot Fenugreek in the maritime turf, as the sea walls light up with Grass Vetchling and Sea Clover. Sea walls in particular abound with butterflies, especially browns and skippers, while dragonflies are at their peak, starting with Hairy Dragonfly in June to the hawkers and darters of high summer. Harbour Seals will be breeding in the Backwaters, as too the birds – Oystercatchers and Redshanks on the beaches and marshes, Common and Little Terns, warblers in the scrub and reedbeds, and Sand Martins on the cliffs. By July, the first returning waders, usually in smart summer plumage, start to drift through, while tern movements offshore can be very impressive, sometimes accompanied by skuas.

Autumn (Sep-Oct):Saltmarshes are in the full flush of autumn colour, with several species of Glasswort, and the last flowerings of Sea Aster and Golden Samphire, hopefully attracting butterflies and the rare Sea Aster Mining-bee, while reedbeds and grazing marshes will provide opportunities for birds such as Cetti’s Warblers. Willow Emerald damselflies, Common Darters and Migrant Hawkers are likely to be flying, and wherever there is flowering Ivy, it will be attracting late season butterflies, hoverflies and bees. If the preceding weather has been conducive, we may encounter an array of fungi, especially waxcaps in the clifftop turf and dunes. Being autumn, migrant birds may turn up anywhere – although not guaranteed – and could include chats, warblers and the first winter thrushes. The clifftop can provide a great vantage point for visible migration, from finches overhead to Gannets offshore. Waders and wildfowl numbers are building in Walton Backwaters, with Brent Geese moving in as autumn progresses, and Sanderling and Bar-tailed Godwit on the beach.

Show more

Day Trip Location

Dates & Prices

2026

Fri 16th Oct

5 SPACES £60

Book Now

Land Only

£60

Book Now

Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

Enquire

Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

• The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
• Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
• Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!

Why Choose Naturetrek?

50+ Trustpilot Reviews

45+ Google Reviews

Click any badge to read more reviews

Gallery