Izobelle in Walton on the Naze

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A day at the coast seemed a good idea during the school holidays, and as Felixstowe is the regular seaside, what about Walton on the Naze, by the Tower and with less people generally? Having decided that was a good idea, buckets and spades were packed (for me) and some for Izobelle.


This looks like a good spot, and very quiet too. Amazing how much the cliffs have eroded since our last visit.


A fort was soon under construction, and some finishing touches given to this section .


During these constructions, the right sized stones have to be used so a working party was organised to hunt for them (Nana).


Having put in all that work, a photograph has to be taken for posterity of course.


When we had had enough on the beach, we climbed back to the top of the cliff, and to the Tower for a coffee and cake. Izobelle and I decided that a climb to the top was in order. I was amazed at her lack of fear in climbing the very steep stairs.
Once at the top we were treated to great views and so descended, very pleased with ourselves. All in all, a very enjoyable day was had by all.

The present tower was built in 1720–21 by Trinity House, and was intended to work in conjunction with Walton Hall Tower to guide vessels through the Goldmer Gap. Towers at Naze and at Walton Hall are marked on a map of 1673 by Richard Blome, which in turn was based on a map drawn up in the late 1500s. 
The present Naze Tower therefore replaced an earlier construction at a similar location. It was of particular benefit to ships using the nearby port of Harwich. Both the current Naze Tower and its predecessor had beacons or lamps lit at the top, providing an early form of lighthouse.
Over the years, the tower has had a variety of uses. In the eighteenth century it was a tea house, operated by the actress and aristocrats' mistress, Martha Reay. It was a lookout during the Napoleonic Wars and again during the Great War of 1914–18. In the Second World War it was used as a radar station, with its crenellations removed to accommodate a radar dish.
Naze Tower was given Grade II* listed status in 1984 by English Heritage. Since 1986, it has been in private ownership.
Well worth a look if you are nearby. 


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Location: Old Hall Ln, Walton on the Naze CO14 8LE, UK

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