Virtual Field Trips
East Head
1. Looking towards the Harbour Mouth
The first stop of this tour looks from the end of West Wittering beach across the mouth of Chichester Harbour towards Hayling Island.
On a clear day it is possible to see the Isle of Wight in the distance.
Click to view panorama of East Head
View of harbour mouth
Harbour Mouth
The mouth of Chichester Harbour has changed dramatically in size and shape over time. For example, between 1840 and 2000 the cross sectional area has doubled from 25,000m2 to 50,000m2. Boats coming in and out of the harbour need to keep to the deepwater channel, which is on the Hayling Island side of the harbour mouth. Those that don't do this are in danger of 'going aground' on the Winner Bank.
Sandy Point
From this position we can see several features that have affected the changing shape of East Head: the Winner Bank, the end of the groyne field and the rock groynes on Sandy Point beach, Hayling Island.
Tamarisks
Tamarisks (Tamarix gallica)
Notice the tamarisks growing in this area. These shrubs are found frequently around the harbour because they can tolerate dry and salty conditions. The tamarisk is not an indigenous plant but has been introduced from warmer parts of the globe.
West Wittering Beach
The popularity of West Wittering beach
West Wittering beach with it's endless stretch of sand is probably the most popular beach in the area. It is estimated that over a million visitors visit West Wittering beach and/or East Head spit each year by road.
East Head itself receives many visitors by boat, who anchor at the north end of the spit.
www.westwitteringbeach.co.uk
Click here to connect to the CHC Education Service for more information about field study activities and projects that can be carried out at East Head.
Field Study Activities
Projects
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