Marsh Sunrise

Waking up at 5.00am, we make the decision to leave Snettisham until Monday when the weather should be better - and hopefully there will be fewer people. Instead, we sleep for another hour then head down to Thornham to witness the Spring Tide flooding the road and surrounding the old Coal Barn.  

We’re hoping for a good sunrise, but the sky seems far too overcast, yet as we arrive there’s a faint pinkish streak towards the east. Parking on elevated ground near to the sea embankment - hoping this is high enough to escape the incoming sea - we walk down to the Coal Barn and I photograph the sunrise reflected in the still channels through the marsh. By now, that pale pink glow has intensified to fiery proportions, but it’s so short lived and soon evaporates into the pervading greyness of the morning.

It’s clear that the tide is rapidly moving in, covering the road beyond the building. We move back to the embankment where I set up my tripod to photograph the Coal Barn as it is becomes surrounded by the tide. I’m looking for reflections, but by now the wind’s got up so there’s little chance of that. Instead, I use a slow shutter/long exposure to try to smooth out the small waves. The flooded marsh is still beautiful on this dull, overcast morning, and a traditional wooden boat adds interest. 

Returning to the car, we find its high and dry, but have to wait for the tide to recede in order to drive along the now flooded road. 

The rest of the day descends into heavy showers and we’re grateful for our very comfortable holiday dwelling, but in late afternoon the sun comes out and we head for a meal in The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe. There’s a wonderful view over the marshes and harbour, the meal is delicious, and Lili behaves impeccably! 

Today’s main is sunrise, with the Coal Barn and flooded marshes in extras.