tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45796589858920781252024-03-14T09:22:57.025+00:00Ruth Walks the South West Coast PathTime for a new challenge. A 1008 km (630 mile) walk. It seemed a good idea at the time.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-63529701598216715652019-06-30T21:08:00.000+01:002020-02-02T21:09:12.892+00:00Epilogue - The GiftMy girls made me a beautiful memory for my birthday. A joint piece of work, designed by themselves: one did the cross stitch, the other the painting. It's wonderful and such a treasure.<br />
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<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-53844363725327043102019-04-30T21:52:00.000+01:002020-02-02T21:09:39.175+00:00The End<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Fifty - Langton Matravers to South Haven Point 18.9 km (11.7 miles).<br />Time on route 5:10hrs, walking time 4:35hrs.</b><br />
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<b>Sunday 21 April 2019</b><br />
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Today I started the final leg of my coast path. I'd always wanted to do the last day with one of my daughters (if not both) and was able to find a date when Riona was free to join me.<br />
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Starting at Dancing Ledge<br />
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we headed due east high along the cliffs for a few km. <br />
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I've seen these before - caterpillar nests - disguised as cotton wool bundles from afar.</div>
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We walked past these mile pole indicators. Offshore a vessel would line these up to mark the start of the mile, time themselves to sail east to until the next set of markers, and check their speed.</div>
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Anvil Point lighthouse.</div>
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Soon we arrived at Durlston Head and the <a href="https://www.durlston.co.uk/the-castle.aspx">Castle</a>. What a geo treat! There was a nautical chart carved into stone (the photo doesn't do it justice), </div>
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and a height marker outside the castle door. Every house should have one.<br />
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And in the castle grounds is this beautiful orb, the Great Globe.<br />
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It was surrounded by the points of the compass.</div>
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A fun, creative, quirky Victorian geo castle.</div>
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We dropped down in busy Swanage via Peverill Point. </div>
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Riona was very taken by the blossom.<br />
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It was a hot, sunny day so Swanage was full of people enjoying the coast. <br />
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I'm never sad to leave these towns though: people amble and I like to keep my pace up. I try not to tut.<br />
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It was a stiff climb up onto Ballard Down.</div>
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But the views, of course, were worth it.<br />
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Trig! <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/989">TP0989</a><br />
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We were in chalk zone. Old Harry Rocks.</div>
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From the headland we dropped down through Studland Wood and along the shore at Studland. The end was in sight but the last few km seemed long. It's a straight beach with a nudist section in the northern part.<br />
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And then we were there. The end point.</div>
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So that's it. 1014 km of coast path; ~35000 m of ascent/descent, 50 days on the path; numerous buses, trains, boats and the odd taxi; occasional walking partners but usually alone; amazing, awesome views; wonderful memories of this 5 year period of my life. </div>
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Now for the next challenge.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-48821425812514107332019-04-04T21:28:00.002+01:002019-04-22T13:11:29.256+01:00More Dorset Loveliness - of Crumbly Cliffs and Killer Climbs <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Nine - Arish Mell to Langton Matravers 21.1 km (13.1 miles).<br />Time on route 7:00hrs, walking time 6:30hrs.</b><br />
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<b>Sunday 24 March 2019</b><br />
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Today started as a reverse of yesterday afternoon. Our AirBnB host dropped us down at East Lulworth, detouring a little to avoid all the trainspotters who had descended to watch <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-dorset-47667649">The Flying Scotsman</a> pass. We soon hopped back down to the path through the range avoiding the big scary cows (OK, that was me). Plenty of evidence of firing practise from the worn out targets.</div>
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It was a stiff climb up from Arish Mell but the view down into Worbarrow Bay was lovely.</div>
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Despite this being a remote and rugged stretch of the path, once again we were sharing it with runners. These were participants in the <a href="https://votwo.co.uk/products/jurassic-coast-challenge">Jurassic Coast Votwo</a>, a mere 3 marathons in 3 days. So less speedy than many of the runners from the previous day, but considering they were on their third foray it was testament to their fitness they were still trogging past us. </div>
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Looking back on Worbarrow Bay from the east.</div>
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The one and only semi-populated spot of the leg was Kimmeridge. The bay is in a marine Special Area of Conservation and is home to the The Wild Seas Centre. The other attraction, for me, was a toilet block - the only one this day. Such luxuries. :-)</div>
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kimmeridge_Oil_Field">Kimmeridge oil field</a> has been mined by a 'nodding donkey' since 1961 now pumping about 65 barrels of oil per day. <br />
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Once out of Kimmeridge Bay you walk past the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clavell_Tower">Clavell Tower</a>, built in ~1830 and relocated 25 m inland brick by brick a decade ago due to the eroding cliffs. </div>
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Cliff erosion is a constant risk around here and there are numerous diversions to the path, for very good reason. Even the non-diverted parts require caution and common sense to avert a quick end to one's coast path expedition. </div>
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The geology continued to be awesome.</div>
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And the tough descents and ascents continued. This was the view before descending into Chapman's Pool.</div>
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We continued the plod around the cliff top towards St Aldhelm's Head. Then the killer steps arrived.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72dw9n1ZxKInpVGmxv-U0_z0cTMOB6ZllqlJgqIk8Va4Wsy2U5mH1NiBvAPGoCKvrJMUtWyhQwKM_dDgbHbABBRUr4qel-e5757CK_VISRQ1vYS6z_gSuhtMNXx5BmAwQHiez8FCsVHA/s1600/20190324_13+Down+to+Chapmans+Pool.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72dw9n1ZxKInpVGmxv-U0_z0cTMOB6ZllqlJgqIk8Va4Wsy2U5mH1NiBvAPGoCKvrJMUtWyhQwKM_dDgbHbABBRUr4qel-e5757CK_VISRQ1vYS6z_gSuhtMNXx5BmAwQHiez8FCsVHA/s1600/20190324_13+Down+to+Chapmans+Pool.JPG" width="240" /></a>
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181 steps down.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDa0W99u8NfaFj5NiOZN-YNZs0eRmtRBVB_ah_mf09FLjWpwJz-J413Vvtr4SHXn1W8S_BmPZITnlzJuqiAtSnMDrDa0bXTGHp16HtdLfHUCo7JgvhBspRW3YhYW3JYJzXL8eGZfDObk/s1600/20190324_14+St+Albans+Head.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDa0W99u8NfaFj5NiOZN-YNZs0eRmtRBVB_ah_mf09FLjWpwJz-J413Vvtr4SHXn1W8S_BmPZITnlzJuqiAtSnMDrDa0bXTGHp16HtdLfHUCo7JgvhBspRW3YhYW3JYJzXL8eGZfDObk/s320/20190324_14+St+Albans+Head.JPG" width="240" /></a>
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And 219 up. To be precise.
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Once my breath and I were back as one, I played with the shadows.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjMzHp052bRznlLvaWpzMeo8HerpdeREprGK1IQj9C92Tk6LZYmYwLhe0uIc9ocDhnR0fytTiQM6DdV3JdoSeAB6mdqAwTd1Ule5OdieQdg9UI8lUB7naHrOjTas7v1kbZb2v55AlFWo/s1600/20190324_12+Shadows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjMzHp052bRznlLvaWpzMeo8HerpdeREprGK1IQj9C92Tk6LZYmYwLhe0uIc9ocDhnR0fytTiQM6DdV3JdoSeAB6mdqAwTd1Ule5OdieQdg9UI8lUB7naHrOjTas7v1kbZb2v55AlFWo/s320/20190324_12+Shadows.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Me in the flesh.</div>
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At the top of St Aldhelm's Head is a look out station and the site of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications_Research_Establishment">Telecommunications Research Establishment</a> from the 1940s. It is marked by this beautiful sculpture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-7I_rtDfHxFILeX16QX0tiMiPKxp2hQdujuC6dAV1DLit01NaR3jJEhCoAAjEUM1xfTUQoeTKbRU4ag49tBajSA9dY7mxI98GM8BCufOtBd8q48A5ysdsANIDR6-ao1SX4_J7FrP92c/s1600/20190324_14+St+Abans+Head+Memorial.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-7I_rtDfHxFILeX16QX0tiMiPKxp2hQdujuC6dAV1DLit01NaR3jJEhCoAAjEUM1xfTUQoeTKbRU4ag49tBajSA9dY7mxI98GM8BCufOtBd8q48A5ysdsANIDR6-ao1SX4_J7FrP92c/s320/20190324_14+St+Abans+Head+Memorial.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is heavy quarrying around this coastline and we crossed a quarry at Winspit.</div>
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Then a weary couple of kilometres to Dancing Ledge where we came off path up to Langton Matravers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_ZrtxDQDLkAGoO32xB0zdbm6h0Z5AkcPqZhmlMF0brCFZZIKPTE_8NQkYJsgu-VZnZ3qwxNmTrmEKhQfUPzTq7BWv2__E_dMo7O46EklI4NmaUxWNtkIHMaGVCXUmnl387LHZI3Yme0/s1600/20190324_16+Seacombe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_ZrtxDQDLkAGoO32xB0zdbm6h0Z5AkcPqZhmlMF0brCFZZIKPTE_8NQkYJsgu-VZnZ3qwxNmTrmEKhQfUPzTq7BWv2__E_dMo7O46EklI4NmaUxWNtkIHMaGVCXUmnl387LHZI3Yme0/s320/20190324_16+Seacombe.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just one more day. Under 20 km to go. It's going to be emotional.</div>
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-45312749589882826982019-03-30T19:03:00.001+00:002019-03-30T19:03:21.431+00:00The High Chalk Cliffs of the Jurassic Coast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Eight - Weymouth to Arish Mell 23.6 km (14.7 miles).<br />Time on route 7:45hrs, walking time 6:35hrs.</b><br />
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<b>Saturday 23 March 2019</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCav1IWGxKvUpCUfYzvX3gZYiXUc5qd9P8N1tAtqgN-YqhFLgV4qZPAxehX71LuWXR7WmMaxq-AusDvDb6UX1yovr2i37_fzGilPzEW1ezxMLWLuYRzowDrZyYXS7KY8opHAPOYJAwvJU/s1600/Day+49+mileage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1312" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCav1IWGxKvUpCUfYzvX3gZYiXUc5qd9P8N1tAtqgN-YqhFLgV4qZPAxehX71LuWXR7WmMaxq-AusDvDb6UX1yovr2i37_fzGilPzEW1ezxMLWLuYRzowDrZyYXS7KY8opHAPOYJAwvJU/s320/Day+49+mileage.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'd been putting off this leg for months as it was logistically complex. Unlike usual days when I could manage some sort of bus/train combination this part of Dorset eluded anything so simple. The MOD ranges don't help but the buses also tend to only week days (maybe it's a pre-tourist season thing). Anyway, I managed to solve this courtesy of a super helpful AirBnB host who provided lifts.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOKBMaUCEOrWSIc2BzE_cO7PJLFYybSiS_-Uvz_ZRCS7x6PuUJuvDkg8vTDnA6u_sGdAeF_XmVofIzzBBVUVBAPEg2VEH4-w6XLkOteREEMpbPT66y6XM_KMY3Wl7qWlppCCddNDuiTI/s1600/20190323_1+Weymouth+clock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOKBMaUCEOrWSIc2BzE_cO7PJLFYybSiS_-Uvz_ZRCS7x6PuUJuvDkg8vTDnA6u_sGdAeF_XmVofIzzBBVUVBAPEg2VEH4-w6XLkOteREEMpbPT66y6XM_KMY3Wl7qWlppCCddNDuiTI/s320/20190323_1+Weymouth+clock.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">So my friend and I drove to Langton Matravers Friday evening and on Saturday morning made our way back to Weymouth for kick off.</span>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">What a lovely mosaic :-)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY__-oA69b5ebHvOrp7CjRP_wvUblTkQ1y8JwGq_VvDiQbWK416fUdOfMAb002sSmKgMBYoYsE91PgQHwZa6hpQhK64a_x3KlP4o8GYm-zFM85ihhT5iBhvLRmsUnHg3hjEAphnNUDUAY/s1600/20190323_1+Weymouth+mosaic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY__-oA69b5ebHvOrp7CjRP_wvUblTkQ1y8JwGq_VvDiQbWK416fUdOfMAb002sSmKgMBYoYsE91PgQHwZa6hpQhK64a_x3KlP4o8GYm-zFM85ihhT5iBhvLRmsUnHg3hjEAphnNUDUAY/s320/20190323_1+Weymouth+mosaic.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had low cloud, drizzle and strong winds for a good chunk of the morning - but certainly nothing compared to the storms of previous weeks.</div>
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After a stretch by the sea wall, and the uninspiring holiday village of Bowleaze, we climbed up onto the cliffs west of Osmington. Already the Isle of Portland was a dim and misty memory.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fJD7d_jV3cQQARk_jwWlaIwgrPhGPDw61QXViO0gFD8ThNh8mcBKxVCVK6v0zfOb3_NuMJH9QAwJ3zn1YfrHTRBeHrPtsIWd2E3kV5h-MgrluGxbee9XnCFGX65JlmGHq9jLP8pmq6E/s1600/20190323_3+Looking+back+on+PortlandJPG.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fJD7d_jV3cQQARk_jwWlaIwgrPhGPDw61QXViO0gFD8ThNh8mcBKxVCVK6v0zfOb3_NuMJH9QAwJ3zn1YfrHTRBeHrPtsIWd2E3kV5h-MgrluGxbee9XnCFGX65JlmGHq9jLP8pmq6E/s320/20190323_3+Looking+back+on+PortlandJPG.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A short dip into moss clad woodlands,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aJtDPrYRo8rkTTXvB3q3rCzkvAkiQnH4JyU8B1Gdu5b1qfpORP0PVwzn1doRDIjaO14PumawRl9pxBbh_alObpz3JgOyh8x6803OCD07n74xTTjZ4TqxzsbmGzfV0iaZ_gp5nkn6ckU/s1600/20190323_4+Woodland.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aJtDPrYRo8rkTTXvB3q3rCzkvAkiQnH4JyU8B1Gdu5b1qfpORP0PVwzn1doRDIjaO14PumawRl9pxBbh_alObpz3JgOyh8x6803OCD07n74xTTjZ4TqxzsbmGzfV0iaZ_gp5nkn6ckU/s1600/20190323_4+Woodland.JPG" /></a></div>
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before descending into Osmington Mills for coffee then back out and up onto the secluded coast. Or, rather, that's what the guide book said. We seemed to be sharing the path with a lot of runners, an awful lot. In fact a whole 10k/half marathan/full marathon and ultra marathon lot of runners. We had met the <a href="https://trailevents.co/events/lulworth-cove/">Lulworth Cove Trail Running</a> event. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJVTBc4QDhkyZKe3beIkb2KgecmFgrlmKp1IwUY4Jr7nhZitg_RVdA2WysOiD7M6QHeW4EjL9hZhqBSvvUatZ2TxXIqnLZKh1FRXyZjAY-SUdYKotFe2PEyJwGQ6r4hAx4IjThxFMhqQ/s1600/20190323_5+West+Bottom+beacon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJVTBc4QDhkyZKe3beIkb2KgecmFgrlmKp1IwUY4Jr7nhZitg_RVdA2WysOiD7M6QHeW4EjL9hZhqBSvvUatZ2TxXIqnLZKh1FRXyZjAY-SUdYKotFe2PEyJwGQ6r4hAx4IjThxFMhqQ/s320/20190323_5+West+Bottom+beacon.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We stopped by the beacon for lunch and watched the runners puff past.</div>
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The afternoon saw the mist start to lift delivering wonderful views.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCy5qz6rUtlc_-QdCEFb1x2lwO_uV-UTPdlqzo-DWWbdHtGwH6WF2URN_kQ7_pXNHKxMUb6qu2JV0_lif1OxosvPasOD_xSe0k2rMMu04PErcc6YIRdDdCf2D9uqsUbNeCGEzshD1MvNU/s1600/20190323_7+Looking+back+on+Ringstead+Bay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCy5qz6rUtlc_-QdCEFb1x2lwO_uV-UTPdlqzo-DWWbdHtGwH6WF2URN_kQ7_pXNHKxMUb6qu2JV0_lif1OxosvPasOD_xSe0k2rMMu04PErcc6YIRdDdCf2D9uqsUbNeCGEzshD1MvNU/s320/20190323_7+Looking+back+on+Ringstead+Bay.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is an awful lot (an <u>awful</u> lot) of ascending and descending along this stretch of the path. Once recovered from a stiff climb up, and rewarded with glorious views, the path would dive down 50/100 m towards the next cove.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4shcpSNf_4wvcjGMIXu6dW7qZwuiZK7F-QHv7IxM8Q2nhLHbDa8VPzmikQEGdFBXsYJQ-D2snr9nudTOFtC3nLT80KnvzxN36OQxafiyszrg6fZdaycPG5ZcwMc9Zud4kdXibnfWY-bc/s1600/20190323_8+Looking+down+on+Bats+HeadJPG.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4shcpSNf_4wvcjGMIXu6dW7qZwuiZK7F-QHv7IxM8Q2nhLHbDa8VPzmikQEGdFBXsYJQ-D2snr9nudTOFtC3nLT80KnvzxN36OQxafiyszrg6fZdaycPG5ZcwMc9Zud4kdXibnfWY-bc/s320/20190323_8+Looking+down+on+Bats+HeadJPG.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We never quite hit the beach though, being kept at least 20 m above the sand at any point. </div>
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As expected for the Jurassic coast, the geology was awesome. Bats Head is a lonely chalk outcrop.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir66aJJRbG_jPVAm8oEWMuRHdITP-AzIvqWKZgbfsxWcnkSahzr5ubD-biuXQ3R8KVVwBuQdNGYbgbCakXcB37GaDE5vFW_P4A9qF9F2_cp9kgyvxu6NEW7jQlJPXBGifWMplWBayqYD8/s1600/20190323_8+Bats+Head+II.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir66aJJRbG_jPVAm8oEWMuRHdITP-AzIvqWKZgbfsxWcnkSahzr5ubD-biuXQ3R8KVVwBuQdNGYbgbCakXcB37GaDE5vFW_P4A9qF9F2_cp9kgyvxu6NEW7jQlJPXBGifWMplWBayqYD8/s320/20190323_8+Bats+Head+II.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmJubbLhu2ZFKTv8cASDqF-LrzxiOB1q8FaGPjORvPXCLZQyWXK1Cb_efZOcO3xbDGruhZ3wZVJdsx2A4yJ2i9W5GaMkO__QN94sp7tnj89mDfgs-DvjXl7LlROhcDDtHizpOkoJ6H8g/s1600/20190323_8+Bats+Head.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmJubbLhu2ZFKTv8cASDqF-LrzxiOB1q8FaGPjORvPXCLZQyWXK1Cb_efZOcO3xbDGruhZ3wZVJdsx2A4yJ2i9W5GaMkO__QN94sp7tnj89mDfgs-DvjXl7LlROhcDDtHizpOkoJ6H8g/s320/20190323_8+Bats+Head.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Shortly followed by the famous Durdle Door. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijC1yysAmAdUA6Y0sRw4CRdsCDMHfRICBHVXkaCIGtChCxRJP_X_ZgFIsFRS6EjAMMOAr7DWSkss9fiOlr9I5u13xAOyMWYyDfvabbsc-0qjtxqrwQXIqFhjC4rQQy35m-fq0DSJlmVlc/s1600/20190323_9+Durdle+Door.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijC1yysAmAdUA6Y0sRw4CRdsCDMHfRICBHVXkaCIGtChCxRJP_X_ZgFIsFRS6EjAMMOAr7DWSkss9fiOlr9I5u13xAOyMWYyDfvabbsc-0qjtxqrwQXIqFhjC4rQQy35m-fq0DSJlmVlc/s1600/20190323_9+Durdle+Door.JPG" /></a></div>
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We were actually able to access the beach here so strolled down to take some decent photos. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGV4W9gMaTa-Oka57nemqCxBqLej76A6uyGrJxJEUz9fzt_4yejps-jpPQBuPPRZ5sMvnAtAEoJGMcS0QAZ7U1idko7IWhgtfOfRXSjPrEckTVFktDz3y4Co-n9ihpTDttkWJt03ieP8/s1600/20190323_9+Durdle+Door+composite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGV4W9gMaTa-Oka57nemqCxBqLej76A6uyGrJxJEUz9fzt_4yejps-jpPQBuPPRZ5sMvnAtAEoJGMcS0QAZ7U1idko7IWhgtfOfRXSjPrEckTVFktDz3y4Co-n9ihpTDttkWJt03ieP8/s320/20190323_9+Durdle+Door+composite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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[editor's note - this is not mine but my friend's - JC is a far better photographer than me].</div>
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We climbed up out and wandered towards the tourist spot of Lulworth Cove. On route I spotted a close by friend so had to whizz up and have the obligatory hug. <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/3585">TP3585</a>, Hambury Tout.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59g3xF2n-6KChpI6pA97vvV9rdERe_HE9zhvTHkTUIRCA_AJlo9U6ETux0Zo3Sry2xjngna5eSRvgSeOPbrak2Cycquha-kOf6H34fbYaWIIQj2nYnafNnwNqZ1UJoT6M-XAWgWgLOHU/s1600/20190323_10+TP3585+distant.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59g3xF2n-6KChpI6pA97vvV9rdERe_HE9zhvTHkTUIRCA_AJlo9U6ETux0Zo3Sry2xjngna5eSRvgSeOPbrak2Cycquha-kOf6H34fbYaWIIQj2nYnafNnwNqZ1UJoT6M-XAWgWgLOHU/s320/20190323_10+TP3585+distant.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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After cold Coke in Lulworth, we passed Stair Hole and marvelled at the forces that had created such vertical strata. </div>
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After walking around Lulworth Cove</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSb2dAABNG1TEPRr4RIrFUhVitG13zZo2fPDC6dWJ5DIaenw4EtzENaMysi-EXvwbzXkjJA2U3PcgAxg27oRaoFOWIZuhFUYFMgPzOqM2Q8zQTYYr7Frp9bLM4O5QHhEzCj2nG5YQv54/s1600/20190323_12+Lulworth+Cove.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSb2dAABNG1TEPRr4RIrFUhVitG13zZo2fPDC6dWJ5DIaenw4EtzENaMysi-EXvwbzXkjJA2U3PcgAxg27oRaoFOWIZuhFUYFMgPzOqM2Q8zQTYYr7Frp9bLM4O5QHhEzCj2nG5YQv54/s320/20190323_12+Lulworth+Cove.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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then back up onto the cliffs and into the first firing range. The ranges are closed at weekends so there was no problem with access. We planned to come off path just past Mupe Rocks but hadn't quite factored in a last minute treat from the path in the guise of Bindon Hill - a 140 m ascent/descent on weary legs. Poof.</div>
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We stopped at Arish Mell and walked up to East Lulworth where our lovely AirBnB host collected us and drove us back to the accommodation. A tough day on the legs but at least we didn't have to run it.</div>
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-19557664067323953712018-09-24T12:47:00.000+01:002018-09-24T12:50:11.280+01:00Round in Circles (Anti-Clockwise of Course)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Seven - Ferry Bridge to Weymouth 25.2 km (15.7 miles).<br />Time on route 7:45hrs, walking time 6:45hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Saturday 15 September 2018</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/43909428375/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 47 route"><img alt="Day 47 route" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1950/43909428375_e04864be5d.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Today's walk was the only circular one of the path. I started at Ferry Bridge and headed south onto Portland. For some strange reason the guide book decided to recommend walking today's route in an clockwise order "to make a change from having the sea on one's right" - but surely the whole point is to walk the path in a constant direction? Sea on one's left is simply wrong. So I ignored the guide book and headed down the west side of the peninsula. Sea on right.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44819793981/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_1 Crossing the Causeway"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_1 Crossing the Causeway" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1857/44819793981_98fcf89aeb_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There is some interesting art as you end the causeway. There was also a lady painting the walkway with wet sand.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/43008731120/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_2 Shoeline"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_2 Shoeline" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1841/43008731120_03303061b1_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It's a stiff but short climb up onto the Portland cliffs, with amazing views as a reward.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44770190662/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_3 Causeway"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_3 Causeway" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1949/44770190662_b9945785da.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The first quarry reached is <a href="http://learningstone.org/tout-quarry-sculpture-park/">Tout Quarry</a> which has been reworked into a wonderful stone sculpture park. Lots of interesting stone carvings on the path. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44770325782/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 13"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 13" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1884/44770325782_90e6193470_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
A friendly bison: the friendliest cattle are always inanimate.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/43008806960/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 11"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 11" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1859/43008806960_6177a54400_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Stone mammoth.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44099733084/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 12"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 12" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1966/44099733084_6e19bd2c58_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
And the <a href="https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/16285233.mythical-portland-dog-beast-comes-to-life-in-sculptors-striking-new-carving/">Roy Dog</a>, a mythical beast said to drag unsuspecting travellers into its lair.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44770372342/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 16"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_3 Tout Quarries 16" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1889/44770372342_4da85a1ea3_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
(I survived).<br />
<br />
I strolled onwards down to Portland Bill passing a bevy of lighthouses much to my delight. This is the Old Higher Lighthouse on the western edge of the bill.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44820241031/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_4 Portland Bill"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_4 Portland Bill" height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1974/44820241031_b454bfbd8a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And the more modern lighthouse on the southern tip.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/30948501558/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_4 Portland Bill 2"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_4 Portland Bill 2" height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1883/30948501558_14b16af16f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The third one, the Old Lower Lighthouse, has been converted into a bird observatory and field centre.<br />
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I stopped for a drink in the cafe at the Bill and was bemused to see numerous chains of office being worn by the ladies and gentlemen dining there. I asked one of them what was going on and she explained it was a get together of local mayors - a sort of 'chain gang' (!). She was the mayor of Lyme Regis. In fact the queue for the toilets had more bling being worn than I've seen in a long time.<br />
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Once refreshed I set off up the eastern coast passing cranes once used to lift the stone into waiting ships. Portland's famous stone has been used across the world for buildings such as the United Nations in New York, the government buildings in New Delhi and, closer to home, St Paul's Cathedral and London Bridge. Indeed Whitehall is built from Portland stone hence its name.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44100097064/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_6 Stone cranes 23"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_6 Stone cranes 23" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1915/44100097064_785aa0a1b2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The western side of the peninsula was probably too exposed for such operations.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/30948699638/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_6 Stone cranes 1"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_6 Stone cranes 1" height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1844/30948699638_0a9af0a0ce_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Once you pass Ope Cove the path winds inland and skirts the Young Offender's Institute and the HM Prison. Once high enough you get to peep back over westwards.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/43909931775/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_7 Looking west"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_7 Looking west" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1928/43909931775_6453e30dcc_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I decided to press on back across the spit and into Weymouth so that my next leg would start from the more easily accessible transport hub. The first few km are on an old railway track then you walk above the Western Ledges and Bincleaves Groyne. It's strange how quickly your lunchtime spot recedes into the distance.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/44100116744/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_10 Back to Portland"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_10 Back to Portland" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1846/44100116744_b3e0efd5ec_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The passenger ferry wasn't running by the time I reached the south side of the harbour but it was only a short walk across the bridge into Weymouth. All in, a lovely day and time enough to catch the bus back to the car and head home.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/43910010445/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180915 Day 41_11 Weymouth 2"><img alt="20180915 Day 41_11 Weymouth 2" height="213" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1864/43910010445_d7b799579d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-41411547063290708982018-05-09T21:32:00.001+01:002018-05-09T21:33:49.743+01:00On Chesil Beach: or rather on Fleet Lagoon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Six - West Bexington to Ferry Bridge 23.5 km (14.6 miles).<br />Time on route 5:45hrs, walking time 5:10hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Tuesday 08 May 2018</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/42001482761/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 46 mileage"><img alt="Day 46 mileage" height="204" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/904/42001482761_0b6bcea2e4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It had been the hottest early May Bank Holiday on record so I waited until both the temperature and holiday crowds dissipated before heading back onto the path. I reversed what I usually do, parking at the beginning of my walk knowing I'd have to catch the bus back to it at the end. I figured it'd be easier to park down a lane in Swyre than in Weymouth.
I headed off On Chesil Beach but fortunately didn't have to slog the ankle-turning shingle for too long as the path hops onto a track at the back of the beach.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/42000509651/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_2 Road past Old Coastguards"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_2 Road past Old Coastguards" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/828/42000509651_ae94474ed2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I noted all the sheep's wool caught on the brambles. Then I realised there were no sheep around - particularly as the track was fenced off - so I inspected these bundles of fluff more closely and realised they were larvae nests.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41100846915/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46 1_Caterpillars 09.19.03"><img alt="20180508 Day 46 1_Caterpillars 09.19.03" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/944/41100846915_1afc8b2c06_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
These caterpillar nests are all over the brambles. Just waiting to pupate and fly.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27131071057/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46 1_Caterpillars 09.17.42"><img alt="20180508 Day 46 1_Caterpillars 09.17.42" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/975/27131071057_dc7e4015b1_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The SWCP stone signage is a nice Dorset touch.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41101025075/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_3 SWCP Sign 09.55.12"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_3 SWCP Sign 09.55.12" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/968/41101025075_eddbf542f2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I climbed up onto Chapel Hill. OK, hardly a 'climb' in the SWCP sense of the word: a dizzying 40 m above MSL but enough for me to finally peer over Chesil Beach shingle spit and spot the sea. It was a rare view for today's leg.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40193731590/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_4 West Fleet from Chapel Hill 10.10.49"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_4 West Fleet from Chapel Hill 10.10.49" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/959/40193731590_f34a00972e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Looking forwards east, the <a href="https://www.dorsetcamper.com/the-fleet-lagoon.html">Fleet Lagoon</a> stretched on for miles. Back in 1943 it was famously used to test Barnes Wallis' bouncing bomb. It's a strange place. From the nature point of view it hosts the Swannery at Abbotsbury, numerous bird nesting sites (which is why the coast path often deviates away from the coast) and other conservation preservation zones. These nestle up next to old MOD pill boxes and live firing ranges. So still very much a mix of military and wildlife.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27131617347/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_5 Towards East Fleet"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_5 Towards East Fleet" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/977/27131617347_99958dbf64_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Talking of wildlife, my old foe appeared. The path went pretty much directly through them. I didn't.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41101308415/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_6 Cows near Wyke Wood"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_6 Cows near Wyke Wood" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/980/41101308415_308381db59_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The mainly flat path had a few variations - fields, tracks and tree enclosed walkways with their welcome shade.<br />
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After many kilometres in land I came back down to East Fleet. Chesil Beach still obscured the sea from view. Walking around the field edges here I stumbled across the annual Dorset midgey convention. The local chapter was out in full force, and I became their edible target. They clung to any bit of me I couldn't swipe as their new best friend. Believe me, I wasn't.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41101364675/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_7 West Fleet 11.57.52"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_7 West Fleet 11.57.52" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/962/41101364675_cba318de4e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There were fewer midges on the board walk. When I did eventually stop for lunch I brushed ~20 travelling gnats off my backpack. They really don't give up easily.<br />
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Aha, not only are the bovine beasts and monster midges out to get me, the hasty horses are on the loose.<br />
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West Fleet is a pleasant lagoon. It just goes on and on for quite a bit. It's a shame as one shouldn't tire of seeing sand, seaweed, shoreline and sea. In fact, at 13 km, Fleet Lagoon is longer than Ullswater - for the Lake District fans amongst my reader(s).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41956881132/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_10 East Fleet 13.06.44"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_10 East Fleet 13.06.44" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/973/41956881132_6d1d60d9dd_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The sea defences have been here a while, this one has grown a toupee. <br />
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More warning signs. No red flag flying today so I marched around the firing range.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/42001305921/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_11 Chickerell Range"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_11 Chickerell Range" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/824/42001305921_db1a36dcb5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Another sea defence - they were everywhere. This one has the full unkempt beard look.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40194093510/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_12 Sea defence"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_12 Sea defence" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/912/40194093510_fe807dd1dd_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Portland Bill suddenly loomed into view. This was my first sight of it all day, as it had been too misty to spot when I left West Bexington.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41283133804/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_13 Towards Portland"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_13 Towards Portland" height="235" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/950/41283133804_f0e3f7a396_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Goodness me! Do the warnings never end?<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27132034057/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_14 Pirates Cove 14.34.27"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_14 Pirates Cove 14.34.27" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/976/27132034057_dff895e413_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Towards the end of West Fleet there are numerous sheds on the brackish shore line, no doubt supporting the local fishing and shellfish industry.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27132060957/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_15 East Fleet Fishing 14.38.02"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_15 East Fleet Fishing 14.38.02" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/951/27132060957_f64235de42_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40194177470/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180508 Day 46_15 East Fleet Fishing 14.42.58"><img alt="20180508 Day 46_15 East Fleet Fishing 14.42.58" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/953/40194177470_0fcd8fb4a5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I stopped at Ferry Bridge. The next leg is a 21 km sweep around the Isle of Portland so I'll treat myself to that another fine fair day. Under 100 km to go...</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-68721422563613882852018-05-05T21:37:00.001+01:002018-05-08T21:11:37.853+01:00Ruth Recovery, Refreshment and even a Ruth Rescue<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Five - Lyme Regis to West Bexington 24.8 km (15.4 miles).<br />Time on route 7:00hrs, walking time 6:30hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Friday 04 May 2018</b><br />
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Wow, long time no see Coast Path! It's been a messy winter/spring with various life challenges, most of which aren't relevant to my walk except the one about having an accident in December and subsequent shoulder operation (end of February) which entailed me having my arm in a sling for 6 weeks. That certainly cramped my walking style and today was the first time I felt confident being out on an uneven surface with a rucksac. Golly, I sooooooo needed the sea, sun, coast path and to be back on the trail again.<br />
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I parked at Swyre (loved the sign post) and caught the bus to Lyme Regis.<br />
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Despite most of the southwest being bathed in sunshine and clear skies, south Dorset had a mist clinging to its coast and Lyme Regis was a little murky as I looked back at it.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40994382645/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_2 Lyme Regis 09.19.42"><img alt="20180504_2 Lyme Regis 09.19.42" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/832/40994382645_fa1644cd1f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And I was walking towards more misty cliffs.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41175964294/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_2 Lyme Regis 09.20.14"><img alt="20180504_2 Lyme Regis 09.20.14" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/872/41175964294_86d70d092a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The sea was calm - absolutely beautiful. I skirted around the museum/theatre then walked up the steps to the carpark. Annoyingly I only counted 113 but was hardly going to go back to check.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41175994384/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_2 Lyme Regis steps"><img alt="20180504_2 Lyme Regis steps" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/908/41175994384_cf5382dbba_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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The stretch of path 5 km or so east of Lyme Regis has been very affected by cliff instability/erosion and many detours are in place. These are sometimes sign-posted clearly, but occasionally I was to be found trying to reconcile the guide book map, its text and reality on the ground: 3 versions of the truth. I lost time ambling to and fro and had to double back a couple of times. My first confusion was just after the 114 steps - how could I get lost in the first 15 minutes of the walk?! Anyway, I found my route and skipped off through the bluebells of Timber Hill.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40994512515/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_3 Bluebells on Timber Hill"><img alt="20180504_3 Bluebells on Timber Hill" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/826/40994512515_85ef79d9a7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The detour then takes you directly across the Lyme Regis golf course. Bearing in mind this was a sunny Friday I did feel I was taking my chances as it was pretty busy. Sadly I was too well behaved not to try and bag the golf course trig <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/4590">TP4590</a> (too far off the route and too many witnesses) but I know where it is now...<br />
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I descended into Charmouth and once again lost my route. I crossed the River Way only to discover that the path ahead was closed so I double-backed and walked the road route. My final glimpse back at Lyme Regis before it disappeared from view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28023556238/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_5 Looking back on Charmouth and Lyme Regis"><img alt="20180504_5 Looking back on Charmouth and Lyme Regis" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/28023556238_2845426538_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Golden Cap was ahead of me now. I'd visited it years ago and remember it not only for its wonderful views but for my walk off the headland through a field of cows. I am still not a major fan of them but a few years ago I was petrified - so much so that I recall hopping over a fence into a patch of stinging nettles just to avoid their scary glares. I was steeling myself for cow-gate when I caught up with a couple ahead of me who simply just strolled through the field of cows and calves. I quickened my pace to keep up with them and, phew, once again I survived a bovine field. I thanked them for being my rescuers. One day I'll grow up and manage cows like a big brave person. Until then...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41176173414/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_6 Towards Golden Cap"><img alt="20180504_6 Towards Golden Cap" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/964/41176173414_1a6cbe270f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Golden Cap trig was just as expected - trig like in all its utter beauty - <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/3399">TP3399</a>. Little view to speak of but I did manage a self-timer shot.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41176233474/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_7 Golden Cap Trig Pillar 12.10.47"><img alt="20180504_7 Golden Cap Trig Pillar 12.10.47" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/951/41176233474_c23ee5f836_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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One of the amazing things about the coast path is the views. One minute you're slogging up a hill focused on the next metre of climb and the next, ta da!, the coast throws open a beautiful breath-taking vista that stops you in your tracks. It's worth the slog up for the 'wow' factor on the descent.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41176288204/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_9 Towards Eype and Chesil"><img alt="20180504_9 Towards Eype and Chesil" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/954/41176288204_fdeec7b6c2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I descended into Seatown and realised, to my horror, that I was very behind schedule. I had apparently only walked 10 km in 3 hours which was ludicrous. I think the detours had increased my distance and decreased my time. Anyway, I had a much needed stop and mental re-group. A glass of wine and 4 glasses of water later I was raring to go. And so I did.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27025266237/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_11 Eype Beach"><img alt="20180504_11 Eype Beach" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/872/27025266237_f850f23b43_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I pretty much shot along the next few km. West Bay was apparently 1 hour 15 mins from Seatown. I did it in 45 mins. It's not the most attractive town in Dorset.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41176368854/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_11 West Bay 13.54.47"><img alt="20180504_11 West Bay 13.54.47" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/41176368854_20710c08fc_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
But initial appearances are deceptive and, once clear of the holiday park and practical but dull breakwaters, the harbour itself is quite pretty.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28023821798/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_11 West Bay 14.12.32"><img alt="20180504_11 West Bay 14.12.32" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/957/28023821798_48262501e3_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Burton Bradstock is another Dorset village unblessed with a holiday camp. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41850723542/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_12 Burton Bradstock"><img alt="20180504_12 Burton Bradstock" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/948/41850723542_661177a7a8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I cleared the last cliff and descended onto the beginning of Chesil Beach.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41893485891/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 15.25.33"><img alt="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 15.25.33" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/952/41893485891_c4f9b61a6b_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I don't recall seeing brassica on a beach before - sea kale <i>(Crambe maritima).</i><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/41850794682/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 15.28.25"><img alt="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 15.28.25" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/41850794682_f8a4a290b4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The excitement of a flat route was soon superseded by the annoyance of walking on shingle. I was 22 km into my walk and a pebble beach work out wasn't on my agenda. Fortunately the path detours behind Bruton Mere reed beds into a bog. I have to admit that bog hopping is preferable to shingle schlepping.<br />
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Once back on the beach I stopped to watch the pedestrians pass. I've never had ducks on my route before. The duck hen was being very closed watched by her two suitors.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27025376097/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 16.02.35"><img alt="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 16.02.35" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/909/27025376097_156636c9c5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As my car was at Swayle I could see a few short cuts on my map up to it. Strangely, once seeing the footpaths in reality, I gave them a wide berth. There is bog and there is bog.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/40994940405/in/dateposted-public/" title="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 16.15.09"><img alt="20180504_13 Chesil Beach begins 16.15.09" height="240" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/863/40994940405_bb6572caa1_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
On reflection, a marvellous day on the path heightened by such a long absence since my last walk. Plenty of time to relax, reflect and refresh myself. <br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-25179122963053546072017-09-27T17:32:00.000+01:002017-09-27T17:34:56.961+01:00When Time Stands Still<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Four - Seaton to Lyme Regis 11.0 km (6.8 miles).<br />Time on route 3:00hrs, walking time 3:00hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Saturday 23 September 2017</b><br />
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The first memorable thing that happened today was that my watch broke at Seaton. So for the first time ever on the path I was walking time-blind (I keep my phone in my rucksack for emergency use only when I'm walking).<br />
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I left Seaton and walked over Axmouth Bridge. This <a href="http://www.transporttrust.com/heritage-sites/heritage-detail/axmouth-bridge-seaton">listed bridge</a>, built in 1877, is the oldest concrete bridge in the UK, but built to emulate a masonry bridge.<br />
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Axmouth Harbour.<br />
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Up past Axmouth golf course, the path turned down a muddy path (I was to experience a lot of mud this day).<br />
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Initially the going was open and I walked over the Downlands Cliffs and Landslips. This particular area is called Goat Island which was caused by the <a href="http://www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk/collection/bindon-landslip-1839/">Bindon landslide</a> of 1839. It was so famous in its day that Queen Victoria herself came to view it.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37015380210/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170923 4_Dowlands Cliffs"><img alt="20170923 4_Dowlands Cliffs" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4425/37015380210_d25e910ec0_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Not knowing how fast I was walking was strange. Stranger still was the route: a 10 km trek through the <a href="http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/9020?category=59026">Undercliff National Nature Reserve</a>. 10 km of sticky slippery mud and few way markers to measure one's progress. So I just trogged along the path in a timeless state, skidding occasionally and once falling right over and ending up in the mud. Not my finest hour.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36561403724/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170923 5_Whitlands Cliff"><img alt="20170923 5_Whitlands Cliff" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/36561403724_bc053ffda4_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
10 km later I emerged and pretty soon afterwards so did Lyme Regis. It was a sunny Saturday and the promenade was full of tourists in shorts and t-shirts. I looked very out of place in my muddy clothes and clodded boots.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37413674105/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170923 7_Lyme Regis 23.10"><img alt="20170923 7_Lyme Regis 23.10" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4417/37413674105_31edbe9641_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I was early enough into Lyme Regis that I ate my lunch there overlooking the River Lym, before catching the bus back to Seaton. Oh, and I'm now in Dorset by the way. My 4th county.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36601706883/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170923 7_Lyme Regis 52.16"><img alt="20170923 7_Lyme Regis 52.16" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4434/36601706883_f523c8433e_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There was a lot of de-muddying to do once home...</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-68889900172074325602017-09-27T01:12:00.003+01:002018-09-24T11:33:53.798+01:00Changing Times on the Coast Path<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Three - Sidmouth to Seaton 16.7 km (10.4 miles).<br />Time on route 4:40hrs, walking time 4:20hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Friday 22 September 2017</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37084835490/in/dateposted-public/" title="Screen Shot 2017-09-27 at 01.10.17"><img alt="Screen Shot 2017-09-27 at 01.10.17" height="211" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4451/37084835490_0b0e445016_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I fancied a two day'er but as my back/knees are a little fragile I decided not to overdo the distances for the next two legs. I drove down to Seaton and caught the bus back to Sidmouth to begin. Ooh, I hadn't spotted this mural before at Sidmouth Triangle. Bet that's them pedalling up Peak Hill.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37223432416/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 1_Sidmouth 25.58"><img alt="20170922 1_Sidmouth 25.58" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4512/37223432416_0b2c9be29b_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I set off along the promenade, dodging dawdling holiday makers and ascended the cliffs.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36560306424/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 1_Sidmouth 30.56"><img alt="20170922 1_Sidmouth 30.56" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4446/36560306424_4225111988_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As ever, such wonderful views from the top back towards Sidmouth, and a chance to catch one's breath.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36600766333/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 2_Looking back towards Sidmouth"><img alt="20170922 2_Looking back towards Sidmouth" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4441/36600766333_2dc9f0d3e0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The whole of today's walk was labelled "severe/strenuous" in the guide book and it certainly was hard work initially. This photo doesn't capture the sheer drop and climb ahead of me.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36600788613/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 3_Salcombe Mouth"><img alt="20170922 3_Salcombe Mouth" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4440/36600788613_1969557cf2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
After another climb it was a sharp descent to Weston Mouth, and a satisfying crunch across the shingle trying not to focus on the 150 m ascent dead ahead.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37241515582/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 5_Weston Mouth"><img alt="20170922 5_Weston Mouth" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4417/37241515582_bfc3d58127_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
At the top of Weston Cliff I spotted a nicely painted trig across the field but I couldn't drum up sufficient enthusiasm to warrant detour to hug it. What is my world coming to? It's <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/6843">TP6843</a> in case anyone is interested. It has been adopted in memory of a Royal Engineer/Ordnance Survey employee hence its beautifully maintained condition. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37014791240/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 6_TP6843"><img alt="20170922 6_TP6843" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4366/37014791240_b947c957ef_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Also up on top of the cliff was a field containing my nemeses. However, since I'd bypassed a trig without hugging it, I figured I could ring the changes again by marching through the middle of this lot.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37223820966/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 7_Moo 8_1"><img alt="20170922 7_Moo 8_1" height="207" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4462/37223820966_8f7f8c836d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
So I did. And they gave me a stiff ignoring.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37270538331/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 7_Moo Butt"><img alt="20170922 7_Moo Butt" height="215" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4452/37270538331_0243239d37_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I eventually dropped down into Branscombe Mouth and came across the anchor of the <a href="http://jurassiccoast.org/napoli-remembered-10-years/">Napoli</a> that grounded offshore here in 2007. I recall taking my girls down to the coast to view it. They were young and trusted my every word then, believing me when I pointed to the two halves of the ship and said "now, there on your left is the 'Nap' and on the right is the 'Oli'". I wouldn't get away with that nowadays.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36560828814/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 9_Branscombe Mouth 02.21"><img alt="20170922 9_Branscombe Mouth 02.21" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/36560828814_4532604d15_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I stopped for tea at the lovely cafe there then headed off upwards again. I was rewarded by my first view of Portland Bill (hard to see in the photo, but it's there, honest).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37241589072/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 8_Portland Bill 4.37"><img alt="20170922 8_Portland Bill 4.37" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4463/37241589072_79dbbb86d0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Just after this, the path sits under the cliff top and meanders through the entrancing Under Hooken for a kilometre or so. And then, at Beer Head, Lyme Bay really opened up and I saw my first view of Seaton.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37270727461/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 11_Lyme Bay"><img alt="20170922 11_Lyme Bay" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4381/37270727461_620327ee17_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I marched down into Beer. What a lovely row of cottages.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37223990006/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 10_Beer 1.06"><img alt="20170922 10_Beer 1.06" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/37223990006_193047f009_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And doorway: two of my favourite things - stained glass and a compass...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37224204456/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 12_Beer in the evening 5.49.50"><img alt="20170922 12_Beer in the evening 5.49.50" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4415/37224204456_e25889be5d_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I didn't spend long there as I was staying there that night so left Beer and headed onwards.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37015004390/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 10_Beer 4.07"><img alt="20170922 10_Beer 4.07" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4461/37015004390_cab1964889_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As it was low tide I was able to take the coast path route along the shingle.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37413296685/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 11_Seaton 38.18"><img alt="20170922 11_Seaton 38.18" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4355/37413296685_3a250f1725_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The rocks are soft enough that tiny grains of sand (presumably) have made small holes in them.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36601362843/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 11_Seaton 41.07"><img alt="20170922 11_Seaton 41.07" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/36601362843_c185138126_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Seaton promenade has some interesting sculptures. "Waves shape the shore".<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37413344335/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170922 11_Seaton 51.48"><img alt="20170922 11_Seaton 51.48" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4455/37413344335_7e39743d81_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And "Shore shapes the waves".<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/37241940082/in/dateposted-public/" title="20170923 1_Seaton 10.33"><img alt="20170923 1_Seaton 10.33" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4370/37241940082_6a51c06b65_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I drove back to Beer and overnighted in their Youth Hostel. Cheap and cheerful, but not terribly sociable. I'd sort of hoped that a hostel would have interesting people loafing around all evening with whom I could chat, but the interesting ones obviously headed out and I was left with with the middle-aged lady (<i>comme moi</i>) drinking earl grey tea and knitting (<i>pas comme moi</i>). Ah well.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-17377853117532571962017-08-10T21:53:00.000+01:002017-08-10T21:53:22.441+01:00Home Ground<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty Two - Starcross to Sidmouth 21 km (13 miles).<br />Time on route 5:00hrs, walking time 4:40hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Thursday 10 August 2017</b><br />
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I am well and truly on home ground right now as I live just a few km up the river in Exeter. My daughter is back home and I thought it would be good to walk a leg with her. Added to this my aunt and uncle are in Sidmouth with the <a href="https://sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk/">Sidmouth Folk Week</a> and it became a grand plan. Well, it would have been a perfect plan - to get the train to Starcross, ferry to Exmouth and walk to Sidmouth - if the ferry had started early enough. But, alas, it only starts at 1010 which was too late for our rellie rendezvous in Sidmouth. <br />
<br />
So yesterday, Wednesday, I drove down to Starcross and took the ferry across to Exmouth. And back of course. Which completes that little piece of the SWCP jigsaw.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35677927543/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.09.55"><img alt="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.09.55" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4432/35677927543_6d5f7f5787_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Looking up the Exe.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35677948893/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.17.12"><img alt="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.17.12" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4333/35677948893_5d8ae4ca85_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And towards Exmouth.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36089429160/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.42.03"><img alt="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.42.03" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4395/36089429160_d01c0b5bcc_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The ferry dog. So cute.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36440428206/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.38.10"><img alt="2017-08-09 Starcross to Exmouth Ferry 16.38.10" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4368/36440428206_3dc4d4d050_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And this morning Caitlin and I drove to Exmouth and were on the path at 0845. We strolled along the Exmouth seafront, which we have done numerous times over her lifespan, and headed up to the <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/exmouth/features/orcombe-point">Geoneedle at Orcombe Point</a> (which I don't ever think I've been to). What we particularly loved was the metal tip which blended into the blue sky.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36318237262/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 2 Geoneedle"><img alt="2017-08-10 2 Geoneedle" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4352/36318237262_5505bfe7f2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We climbed up and over the Straight Point rifle range and on towards Budleigh Salterton. We had to detour at West Down, albeit only 5 metres, to visit my favourite trig. I was off sick from work a decade or so ago and I would find solace in driving to Budleigh, walking up to this trig, giving it a hug and ambling home. We have an understanding this trig and I. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36089607370/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 4 Budleigh Trig 48"><img alt="2017-08-10 4 Budleigh Trig 48" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4349/36089607370_c8546118eb_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We dropped down into Budleigh and stopped for coke at one of the kiosks by the sea front. I pointed out the spot where I'd changed Caitlin's nappy behind a beach hut 21 years ago ("thanks Mum").<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35678198473/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 5 Budleigh 10.48.27"><img alt="2017-08-10 5 Budleigh 10.48.27" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4338/35678198473_4a2baed327_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We had to walk up the Otter to cross it and the views back towards Budleigh were lovely as the sun reflected off the cliffs.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36318370702/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 5 Budleigh 11.50.18"><img alt="2017-08-10 5 Budleigh 11.50.18" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4356/36318370702_045b4d7f83_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Apparently this is what I look like walking the coast path.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36487069655/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 Walking"><img alt="2017-08-10 Walking" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4375/36487069655_e04f56879a_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We dropped down into Ladram Bay and back up out.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36441034626/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 6 Ladram Bay"><img alt="2017-08-10 6 Ladram Bay" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/36441034626_93498c8efe_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
My aunt and uncle were on a collision course with us (intentional) from Sidmouth and we rendezvoused at High Peak. It was an easy stroll down towards Sidmouth.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36349509041/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 13.35.14"><img alt="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 13.35.14" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/36349509041_646b4ca6b7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As we neared the Clock Tower, our tea and cake spot of choice, they veered off to avoid the up/down of the coast path at Jacobs Ladder which I, of course, stuck to.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36487132895/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 13.36.37"><img alt="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 13.36.37" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4407/36487132895_5b998fbe19_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was great to have coke, cake, chips in the sun.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36441146566/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 14.09.24"><img alt="2017-08-10 7 Sidmouth 14.09.24" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4360/36441146566_e5b0514fab_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We wandered across the beach towards the bus stop and then it took Caitlin and I 2.5 hours to get back with the bus journey (road works in Ottery St Mary), a quick food shop (which included a lesson in how to shop in Aldi) and heavy traffic.<br />
<br />
PS. As a total aside, the Sidmouth Folk Week home page has a photo on it which has my daughter dancing with my cousin from 2016. She was hanging on for dear life...<br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-53153277520365031202017-07-25T18:15:00.003+01:002017-07-25T18:15:59.063+01:00More Trains - Up the Exe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty One - Maidencombe to Starcross 17.6 km (10.9 miles).<br />Time on route 6:45hrs, walking time 4:45hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Monday 17 July 2017</b><br />
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To start our walk we caught a taxi to Maidencombe as I'd had a major fail on reading the bus timetable (irritating). Anyway. We set off in the sun for an initial 'moderate to strenuous' section towards Shaldon. Around Commons Plantation the path is covered by windswept trees.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35308203443/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-17 _2 Around Commons Plantation"><img alt="2017-07-17 _2 Around Commons Plantation" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4292/35308203443_489e9ab9c8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
At Bundle Head I came across an old foe. Being in company I felt terribly brave and walked within a few metres of these beasts. Alone I would have given them a far wider berth.<br />
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The path provides a wonderful view of Teignmouth as you drop into if off The Ness.<br />
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There are two routes across the River Teign. The official one being the Shaldon/Teignmouth ferry and, if that's not running due to bad weather, the road bridge. Fortunately the ferry was running so we hopped on board for the 10 minute trundle across the river.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/36074824046/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-17 _5 Shaldon Teignmouth Ferry 29.41"><img alt="2017-07-17 _5 Shaldon Teignmouth Ferry 29.41" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4328/36074824046_4d1bd8843f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Our skipper was really interesting and chatted to us whilst we traversed about how suddenly the environmental conditions can halt the ferry (standing waves, spring tides, high wind etc). Fascinating.<br />
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Looking back as we left the boat.<br />
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We stopped in Teignmouth for a drink and to catch up on work. As it was Monday meant that emails were coming in thick and fast, so we stopped for a while to keep our business alive and kicking before the next leg.<br />
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Martin, being South African, found this local hot chocolate name quite interesting. Zuma = hot chocolate? There's a sniff of racism to be read into that.<br />
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As we left I noticed the local Teignmouth art - very creative.<br />
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The tide was high but not so bad to prevent us walking the Teignmouth to Dawlish seawall, which is frequented by the Penzance to London trains.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35276273584/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-17 _7 Teignmouth to Dawlish"><img alt="2017-07-17 _7 Teignmouth to Dawlish" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4316/35276273584_412ac086de_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Looking down on Coryton's Cove near Dawlish.<br />
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And then up and over into Dawlish.<br />
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This was in interesting pavement demarcation on entering Dawlish. It delineates where TDC, Torbay District Council stops and NR starts. I'm just not sure what NR is.<br />
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We had a late lunch in Dawlish (more emails to answer...) and then headed off towards Dawlish Warren.<br />
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Once you reach Dawlish Warren the path follows the main road, albeit it on a separate footpath for some of it. But it's flat and fast.<br />
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The tide was out at Cockwood Harbour.<br />
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Shortly we arrived at Starcross railway station. I can see the next leg of my journey, the ferry across to Exmouth, but that's for another day. ;-)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35983180601/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-17 _9 Starcross end"><img alt="2017-07-17 _9 Starcross end" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4302/35983180601_f2a4428a08_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-36849282727534426052017-07-23T21:42:00.002+01:002017-07-23T21:51:20.369+01:00All things English and Coast-Pathy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Forty - Brixham to Maidencombe 25.9 km (16.1 miles).<br />Time on route 7:50hrs, walking time 6:20hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Sunday 16 July 2017</b><br />
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For day 40 and day 41 I was joined on the route by my business partner, Martin. He is South African so is used to large scenery: the vastness of the Karoo, the huge mountains of the Drakensburg, the gigantic waves rolling in off the Indian Ocean in Durban. I figured the South West Coast Path would be a change with its hidden coves, shady woodland paths, cliff top meadows and cosy tea shops. <br />
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We caught the train to Paignton then a bus to Brixham where we picked up the route. Brixham was a little greyer than last time but still sparkling and pleasant.<br />
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A creative mosaic on the way out.<br />
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And what looks to be a Banksy.<br />
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The first cove we came to was Churston: the first of many sharp descents and steep rises of the day. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35989854406/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-16 _2 Churston Cove"><img alt="2017-07-16 _2 Churston Cove" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4295/35989854406_2864b28dc8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We slightly lost our way by the golf club. How embarrassing for two chartered surveyors although, to be fair, I was hogging the map so it was all my fault. <br />
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Broadsands is an attractive sandy beach enhanced by a medley of stripy beach huts.<br />
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The first of many hundreds we saw on Sunday.<br />
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We soon came across the Paignton to Kingswear railway and were rewarded by a steam train huffing past Goodrington Sands.<br />
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Our route then took us past the conglomerations of Paignton and Torquay. I felt somewhat overdressed in my walking boots, with my unkempt windswept hair, stomping past all the holiday makers.<br />
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Paignton Pier. <br />
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Although tourist and shopping crowds aren't my favourite SWCP scene it does provide decent refreshment opportunities and we enjoyed a late lunch in Torquay. Late because I hate breaking the day too early - I like to be at least halfway before I allow myself (or any of my poor walking companions) a stop.<br />
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We climbed out of Torbay past Hope's Nose and turned back to look at Hope Cove.<br />
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What beautiful foliage-covered walls and archway near Black Head.<br />
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Although I'd only been able to find accommodation at Babbacombe I wanted to press on so that day 41 wasn't too long. So we pushed on up past Withy Point grabbing a welcome coke at a tea shop that was just closing.<br />
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Oddicombe Beach followed soon after and I loved the walkways.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35724882000/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-07-16 _10 Oddicombe beach"><img alt="2017-07-16 _10 Oddicombe beach" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4292/35724882000_4ec387063a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I hadn't realised it had a furnicular so we paused to watch a swap over of these cantilevered rail cars.<br />
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We stopped at Maidencombe and fell into the Thatched Tavern at 1815 only to find they had closed the bar 15 minutes earlier! We must have looked desperate (it was a hot day) and they kindly served us a cold wine/beer as we had 45 minutes to wait for our bus back down to Babbacombe. <br />
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As ever, it was a wonderful day on the coast path. And, SWCP, not a bad show-and-tell at all for your visiting South African. Not only did you deliver the expected coves, glades, meadows, beaches and pier, but you threw in a steam train and a funicular railway. Nice one.<br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-15822085545160686882017-07-01T19:25:00.001+01:002017-07-01T20:17:13.057+01:00Birthday Sun, Sea and Strawberries<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Nine - Dartmouth to Brixham 17.3km (10.7 miles).<br />Time on route 6:20hrs, walking time 5:10hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Sunday 25 June 2017</b><br />
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It was my birthday last Sunday and what better treat than to walk the coast path with my daughter. She was more than happy to have a stroll with me but baulked a little at the idea of 17 km. This is from a girl who has walked 45 miles in 2 days with Ten Tors so I figured it was all bluff and bluster.<br />
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We drove to Brixham, parked up and headed down to the bus stop. Halfway down I double-checked that Riona had the map. "What map Mum?" she enquired. "I left a map in the car but I thought that was just to get us here". Needless to say I achieved a record running rate, for a 48 year old in walking boots, uphill, to retrieve said map.<br />
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We caught the bus to Kingswear, had coffee at the station (very retro and quaint) before heading off. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34745945903/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 1 Kingswear 12"><img alt="2017-06-25 1 Kingswear 12" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4289/34745945903_14209a647e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
First things first, a nicely painted benchmark.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35515888936/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 1 Kingswear 04"><img alt="2017-06-25 1 Kingswear 04" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4264/35515888936_e4091765fe_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We headed south east towards the Inner Froward Point, looking back to enjoy our last views of the Dart Estuary.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34745960673/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 2 River Dart 56"><img alt="2017-06-25 2 River Dart 56" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4215/34745960673_437e47c16b_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Opposite Dartmouth Castle are similar defensive structures on the Kingswear side. This is the once heavily fortified Brownstone Battery.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34746330453/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 3 Fort Brownstone Battery 0.42"><img alt="2017-06-25 3 Fort Brownstone Battery 0.42" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4211/34746330453_a4567831ee_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A very vertiginous path down from the Battery.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34714107204/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 3 Fort Brownstone Battery 1.49"><img alt="2017-06-25 3 Fort Brownstone Battery 1.49" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4241/34714107204_56fb7249bf_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We turned east at Froward Cove and the offshore rocks of Shooter, Shag and Mew came into view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34746338733/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 4 Froward Cove"><img alt="2017-06-25 4 Froward Cove" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4285/34746338733_bc5cd20893_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As soon did Sharkham Point.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34746342863/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 5 Sharkham Point"><img alt="2017-06-25 5 Sharkham Point" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4210/34746342863_1c16fd6a52_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a day full of undulations - 'strenuous' according to the guide book. We had periods of flat but similar period of steep descents and ascents. This is looking back to our descent to Scabbacombe Sands. It looks quite mild on the photo but trust me, I would have struggled if it was wet and slippery.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35516398266/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 6 Scabbacombe Sands"><img alt="2017-06-25 6 Scabbacombe Sands" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4242/35516398266_2355171072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We stopped for strawberries on a bench above Long Sands then descended again to Man Sands (I'm still keeping my eye out for Woman Sands).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34746419233/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 7 Long Sands"><img alt="2017-06-25 7 Long Sands" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4277/34746419233_46c98f73d3_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Such lovely views.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35516413616/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 8 Torbay"><img alt="2017-06-25 8 Torbay" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4279/35516413616_d86aee016c_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We arrived somewhat hot and bothered at Berry Head as the sun was hotter than we'd anticipated. We spent a happy 45 minutes in the <a href="http://www.guardhousecafe.com/">Guardhouse Cafe</a> then wandered up to Berry Head. I knew what to look for on the way as I'd bagged this one before in 2012 - <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/1334">TP1334</a>. And, kerchung, there it was. A little less purple than previously but still lovable and huggable.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35654475605/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 10 BerryHead trig TP1334 0"><img alt="2017-06-25 10 BerryHead trig TP1334 0" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4264/35654475605_9caccc63a2_n.jpg" width="238" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35168487950/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 10 BerryHead trig TP1334 trig"><img alt="2017-06-25 10 BerryHead trig TP1334 trig" height="320" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4206/35168487950_44c1c15dd3_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Walking east to the Head of the Berry you reach the look out, with it's lovely bench mark.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35516438216/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 2.05"><img alt="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 2.05" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4259/35516438216_1f249065fe_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35516429736/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 1.56"><img alt="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 1.56" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4261/35516429736_209e9f94a0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
And then the lighthouse. At which point I was photo-bombed.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/34845412283/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 2"><img alt="2017-06-25 10 Berry Head 2" height="238" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4125/34845412283_8cb9b4c21d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We set off the last km or so around Torbay and down into Brixham.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35555169735/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 Brixham 6.54.12"><img alt="2017-06-25 Brixham 6.54.12" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4259/35555169735_cdfba84e9d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A beautiful harbour. Looking forward to setting off here on my next leg.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/35516511456/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-06-25 Brixham 7.08.00"><img alt="2017-06-25 Brixham 7.08.00" height="240" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4237/35516511456_edb649507a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-15069810971225931932017-04-11T09:55:00.005+01:002017-04-11T09:57:20.708+01:00Planes, Trains and Automobiles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Eight - Stoke Fleming to Dartmouth 7.7km (4.8 miles).<br />Time on route 1:35hrs, walking time 1:35hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Monday 10 April 2017</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33157412413/in/dateposted-public/" title="Screen Shot 2017-04-11 at 09.16.56"><img alt="Screen Shot 2017-04-11 at 09.16.56" height="168" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2818/33157412413_b2405fcf1b_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
The title shows my age (it was a film I watched as a teenager) but today felt a bit like this. To get to my start at Stoke Fleming I caught the train to Paignton, the bus to Kingswear, the foot ferry to Dartmouth and another bus down to Stoke Fleming. So door to door it was a 3 hour journey. I had a short goal today as wanted to 'tidy up' my last walk which was a half day from Torcross to Stoke Fleming. So hardly a challenge but it was still good to be out by the coast.<br />
<br />
The spring flowers are prolific this time of year: these were growing off the side of a wall.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33585521480/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 2_Wall flowers"><img alt="2017-04-10 2_Wall flowers" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2825/33585521480_3fe9e7c9bb_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And it didn't take long before the Dart estuary came into view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33929374076/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 3_View across Dart"><img alt="2017-04-10 3_View across Dart" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2827/33929374076_7bf31c7b3e_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Beautiful spring path.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33929383206/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 5_Spring path"><img alt="2017-04-10 5_Spring path" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2875/33929383206_fd874d98f1_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There is oodles of military history at Dartmouth with its extensive maritime defensive past. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33929429916/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 6_Dartmouth Castle 5.41"><img alt="2017-04-10 6_Dartmouth Castle 5.41" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3951/33929429916_216ec4847e_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Dartmouth Castle was built in 1388 to defend the English against French raids and was extended many times since then (more <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/dartmouth-castle/history/">here</a>). It now has a more peaceful cafe with a wonderful view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33126869934/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 6_Dartmouth Castle 4.51"><img alt="2017-04-10 6_Dartmouth Castle 4.51" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2811/33126869934_99744a7e73_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The Royal Navy trains all its officers here at the Britannia Naval College, sited up on the hill (in the background of this photo).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33929460426/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 7_Kingswear Ferry 09.37"><img alt="2017-04-10 7_Kingswear Ferry 09.37" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2812/33929460426_4ec21e2527_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The estuary is buzzing with yachts, ships, dinghies, kayaks and ferries. The car ferry between Dartmouth and Kingswear is expertly nudged too and fro by a tug.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33812855482/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 7_Kingswear Ferry 23.00"><img alt="2017-04-10 7_Kingswear Ferry 23.00" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2870/33812855482_3664bb5d3b_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Just south of Dartmouth pontoon the path dips down into <a href="http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bayards-cove-fort/">Bayards Cove Fort</a>; the first time the path has actually traversed through a tudor building from my recollection. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33840704781/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 8_Bayards Cove Castle 31"><img alt="2017-04-10 8_Bayards Cove Castle 31" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2908/33840704781_6261f89c53_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33585707030/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 8_Bayards Cove Castle 48"><img alt="2017-04-10 8_Bayards Cove Castle 48" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2906/33585707030_2dd3dc082c_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I stopped and had a late lunch in the sun overlooking the river and Kingswear before heading back on the passenger ferry (and bus and train, you know the score).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33812913832/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 27.28"><img alt="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 27.28" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2862/33812913832_5cdbff2911_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33812926202/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 47.16"><img alt="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 47.16" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2839/33812926202_27ae243d45_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/33840802571/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 50.10"><img alt="2017-04-10 9_Dart and Passenger Ferry 50.10" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2914/33840802571_fb91a192cb_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-74804366272006975872017-01-30T14:36:00.001+00:002017-04-11T09:13:50.003+01:00Against the Wind to Blackpool<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Seven - Torcross to Stoke Fleming 8.7km (5.3 miles).<br />Time on route 3:00hrs, walking time 2:30hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Thursday 19 January 2017</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32409089845/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 37 map"><img alt="Day 37 map" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/314/32409089845_ffeebf872c_m.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a short day today as I needed to get home but I wanted to get some miles under my feet as, otherwise, the next leg is ~25km which is a tough one to manage with short daylight hours and public transport. I drove to Stoke Fleming, parked up, and took the bus back down to Torcross. These bus drivers are quite awesome, navigating their large double decker buses down these narrow roads.<br />
<br />
At the south end of Slapton Ley is a US Sherman tank, one of the memorials along Slapton Sands to commemorate the many (mainly American) lives that were lost during <a href="http://www.exercisetigermemorial.co.uk/">Exercise Tiger</a> in 1944.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31597986283/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-19_1 Slapton Tank"><img alt="2017-01-19_1 Slapton Tank" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/298/31597986283_1e9f2b5510_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
The wind was from the north east and strong so I wrapped up well and marched the 4km up the sands. No photos when it's windy dear reader(s).<br />
<br />
The path then headed off inland and, with the low sun behind me, it make a striking shot.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31598028793/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-19_2 Strete"><img alt="2017-01-19_2 Strete" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/699/31598028793_1e839eb354_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
This is turning the other way looking south.<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32369778546/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-19_3 Start Bay"><img alt="2017-01-19_3 Start Bay" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/346/32369778546_ee79aeb9ba_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I climbed up high criss-crossing the A379 getting slightly lost near Strete where the signs disappeared and my map didn't reflect the rerouting of the last couple of years. Anyway, a little wandering up and down a field didn't hurt and I was back on path looking down on Blackpool Sands. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32369811036/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-19_4 Blackpool Sands"><img alt="2017-01-19_4 Blackpool Sands" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/377/32369811036_d6cc4000e6_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Nearing the beach is a pretty stone bridge. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32031874360/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-19_4 Blackpool Bridge 2"><img alt="2017-01-19_4 Blackpool Bridge 2" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/458/32031874360_faef2d28e0_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There was a wonderful teashop at Blackpool Sands, the <a href="http://www.blackpoolsands.co.uk/cafemenu.htm">Venus Cafe</a>. Just south of the Sands is a naturist beach. Not that I saw much activity on a cold, windy day on January. I mentioned to a friend recently that the cafe was wonderful to which he remarked "Nude beaches always have the best cafes". I didn't ask him how he knew but it made me smile. Perhaps once I've finished the Coast Path I should test his theory?<br />
<br />
Anyway, a final push up, across the A379 again, to Stoke Fleming and the end of another day (half day) on the path.<br />
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-68571748103774634312017-01-29T19:46:00.003+00:002017-01-30T14:07:22.980+00:00Nearly Three Quarters<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Six - Salcombe to Torcross 20.8km (12.9 miles).<br />Time on route 6:00hrs, walking time 5:50hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Wednesday 18 January 2017</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32288425751/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 36 map"><img alt="Day 36 map" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/664/32288425751_d42543400b_m.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I caught the bus down to Salcombe and enjoyed a coffee in the delightfully nautical <a href="http://www.captain-morgans.co.uk/">Captain Morgan's</a> whilst awaiting the ferry. I bumped into a couple of guys at the jetty just climbing off their paddle-boards. They had paddled down from Kingsbridge taking the opportunity of a calm estuary. They said it was a treat to come down, have breakfast in Salcombe, then paddle back. Now that's the way to spend a morning.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31565709924/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe Harbour"><img alt="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe Harbour" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/279/31565709924_016f0449cd_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Salcombe glistened in the sun as I crossed yet another estuary.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32368913806/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 09.19"><img alt="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 09.19" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/372/32368913806_74158ec9de_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Looking back on Salcombe from East Portlemouth.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31565868084/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 22.32"><img alt="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 22.32" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/773/31565868084_00cfb8b0ea_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was an easy path out of Salcombe across Portsmouth Down and Deckler's Cliff. The winter sun created strong shadows down the gullies.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32288122451/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_2 Near Decklers Cliff"><img alt="2017-01-18_2 Near Decklers Cliff" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/745/32288122451_f0ca1c914b_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
At Prawle Point there is a Coastwatch Institution station and small museum. Neither of which I appear to have photographed directing my camera instead on this triangular piece of concrete. I suspect it was the base of a telescope once.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32258125272/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_3 Prawle Point"><img alt="2017-01-18_3 Prawle Point" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/721/32258125272_31038af604_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
More gentle walking across what my guidebook told me was an early Pleistocene cliff line (I confess to not knowing my Pleistocene from my Plasticine) and past Langerstone Point.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31597301993/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_4 Nr Langerstone Point"><img alt="2017-01-18_4 Nr Langerstone Point" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/429/31597301993_3a322e9bbb_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
In Lanacombe Bay you find a grand dwelling that is being magnificently refurbished with the sign "Welcome to Maelcombe", followed by a not so friendly clarification sign stating "Keep Out".<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32288256151/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_5 Lannacombe Bay 4.56.26"><img alt="2017-01-18_5 Lannacombe Bay 4.56.26" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/305/32288256151_2af75a36bc_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The path became more fiddly to walk. It started to twist and turn both in the horizontal and vertical directions. The sort of path where you see your destination but sometimes you're actually walking away from it. Added to this big stones/boulders under foot meant I had to watch my feet the whole time.<br />
<br />
Eventually Start Point loomed into view. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32258314372/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 06.38"><img alt="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 06.38" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/403/32258314372_d162299193_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I'm not sure if the path goes right down to it, but I did - well as far as I was able without trespassing. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32408684375/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 21.13"><img alt="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 21.13" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/547/32408684375_4664a8ce98_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I hugged the ridge east over to it and walked the service road back west whereupon I did a double take on this sign. It appeared to have very large distances on it and then I realised, to my delight, that it was a marker for the whole route! In imperial terms, 462 miles walked, 168 to go. A rough calculation in my head told me that I was nearly 3/4 of the way around the route (just 10 miles more). What a welcome surprise.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32288527011/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 31.37"><img alt="2017-01-18_6 Start Point 31.37" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/257/32288527011_0e056c5907_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
This part of Hallsands has seen better days and the new village is built further inland on the cliff top. The old village was destroyed by the sea after dredging of its protective sand bar took place from 1897 onwards (more <a href="http://www.abandonedcommunities.co.uk/hallsands.html">here</a>).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31597635963/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_7 Hallsands"><img alt="2017-01-18_7 Hallsands" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/626/31597635963_abdb3df952_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A sign alerted me to danger in Beesands.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32031586780/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_8 Beesands7.56"><img alt="2017-01-18_8 Beesands7.56" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/585/32031586780_0d2026cebd_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And, once safely clear, I marvelled at the creativity of turning a rowing boat into a bench. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32369409516/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_8 Beesands4.10"><img alt="2017-01-18_8 Beesands4.10" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/590/32369409516_5c621b0b2e_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Just before Torcross you ascend the cliffs circumventing an old quarry. This has the advantage of affording wonderful views of Slapton Sands (with Slapton Ley on the left). My route for the next day.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31597838473/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_9 Slapton Ley 5.11"><img alt="2017-01-18_9 Slapton Ley 5.11" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/494/31597838473_05da1041e2_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-376382376098206762017-01-28T22:11:00.001+00:002017-01-28T22:15:21.727+00:00Cold and Calm to start the Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Five - Bantham to Salcombe 20.3km (12.6 miles).<br />Time on route 5:30hrs, walking time 5:30hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Tuesday 17 January 2017</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32286748731/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 35 map"><img alt="Day 35 map" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/286/32286748731_70516f5a0f_m.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
For the legs south from Bantham I used Kingsbridge as a hub. It was a prompt start and I parked at my B&B in time to catch the 0810 bus from there to Thurlstone. The bus driver only charged me £1 as it was a school run and he said that's what everyone else was charged, even those I was twice the height of the other passengers! Anyway, I then walked a kilometre down to the river Avon to pick up my route from 2016. <br />
<br />
I was pleased to see the tea shop I'd found in September was open for a coffee at 0900 so I started my walk with coffee and a view. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32029819200/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_1 Avon River"><img alt="2017-01-17_1 Avon River" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/682/32029819200_0e2a574bb8_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
You can see Burgh Island to the left of this photo. So peaceful and still.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32029757440/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_1 River Avon"><img alt="2017-01-17_1 River Avon" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/568/32029757440_2c4d737869_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Anyway, once sated I head off into the cold, but calm day. Just past Thurlestone golf course you drop down to South Milton and cross the Ley. This is the second largest reed bed in Devon and you traverse it via a 73m footbridge.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32286887321/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _3 South Milton Ley 5.59"><img alt="2017-01-17 _3 South Milton Ley 5.59" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/684/32286887321_989c299971_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A heron breakfasting.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32257040922/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _3 South Milton Ley 6.40"><img alt="2017-01-17 _3 South Milton Ley 6.40" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/694/32257040922_1c696388fd_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Soon after you enter Outer and then Inner Hope, with the harbour being particularly photogenic.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31596474373/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_4 Inner Hope"><img alt="2017-01-17_4 Inner Hope" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/318/31596474373_4f5da396ca_m.jpg" width="360" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The old lifeboat station had a little treat for me...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32367987626/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 3.52"><img alt="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 3.52" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/398/32367987626_a88a7cb06d_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
... a somewhat weathered benchmark.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32407363975/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 3.14"><img alt="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 3.14" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/586/32407363975_889b11d7df_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I climbed out and glanced back at Hope Harbour. The pastel coloured cottages make a scenic view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32407491465/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 6.04"><img alt="2017-01-17 _4 Inner and Outer Hope 6.04" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/259/32407491465_eefde3c4ca_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a cold day so I didn't linger much, however I had to detour at Bolt Tail. I used to work with the Royal Navy hydrographers and I knew they had a survey point somewhere on this promontory. I even had the National Grid coordinates on me but without a station description (or a GPS) it was a pretty fruitless hunt for a survey marker flush with the ground, positioned 20 years ago and no doubt buried by ground cover by now.<br />
<br />
The way ahead was clear and undulating, over Bolberry Down and The Warren (again, another survey marker here - again a failure to find). It's a quiet path with few other walkers and limited refreshment opportunities - fine by me.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32030136410/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_5 The Warren"><img alt="2017-01-17_5 The Warren" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/520/32030136410_44dd8284ef_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I passed Bolt Head and looked back at it from Sharp Tor.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32257308972/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_6 Bolt Head"><img alt="2017-01-17_6 Bolt Head" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/535/32257308972_894825639c_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
Sharp Tor.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32368143556/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17 _7 Sharp Tor 7.35"><img alt="2017-01-17 _7 Sharp Tor 7.35" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/667/32368143556_6d736ec41d_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Then around the corner into South Sands. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31596471023/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_8 South Sands"><img alt="2017-01-17_8 South Sands" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/433/31596471023_7c75477e13_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
Once past this the path follows (mainly) a road into Salcombe.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/31565785234/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 12.36"><img alt="2017-01-18_1 Salcombe 12.36" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/343/31565785234_9ef8d67bc3_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I checked out my ferry jetty for the next day. The East Portlemouth ferry departs from a more northerly point in the winter and I always like to check out these things ahead of time if possible.<br />
<br />
I caught a bus back to Kingsbridge - enjoying their lovely mosaics on arrival.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32287359311/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_9 Kingsbridge 28"><img alt="2017-01-17_9 Kingsbridge 28" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/774/32287359311_ebd754b31d_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/32257375152/in/dateposted-public/" title="2017-01-17_9 Kingsbridge 08"><img alt="2017-01-17_9 Kingsbridge 08" height="180" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/517/32257375152_6ed8324f99_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Kingsbridge is a great hub: buses, a decent B&B (<a href="http://www.ashleigh-house.co.uk/">Ashleigh House</a>) and a good choice of restaurants so I dined well and slept like a queen.<br />
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-82899283705985547612016-09-22T21:19:00.003+01:002016-09-22T21:19:55.657+01:00Addendum - River Avon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Four and a bit - Crossing the River Avon 50m.<br />Time on route 0:15hrs, sailing time 0:10hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Wednesday 14 September 2016</b><br />
<br />
The ferry across the River Avon is seasonal and this year finished on 17 September. So if I didn't get across I could either (a) walk the ~12km around the estuary or (b) just start from the Bantham side of the estuary. Neither appealed. So last Wednesday I drove down to Bantham and took the ferry across to Cockleridge and back.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29566788450/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 09.41.32"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 09.41.32" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8009/29566788450_f32c188eb7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was such a beautiful day.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29566810000/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 09.41.36"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 09.41.36" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8133/29566810000_7f30a220cf_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I walked down to the river and sat watching swans take off.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29746531702/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.04.45"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.04.45" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8048/29746531702_40e04c22c6_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The harbour master has many duties here, one of which is running the ferry from 1000-1100 and 1500-1600 in high season.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29233030104/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.11.37"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.11.37" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8368/29233030104_fa22325857_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The harbour master's dog, Ty, knew exactly where his spot was.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29825018736/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.06.03"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.06.03" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8402/29825018736_f7f6c8426d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Ty got uppity during the crossing back from Cockleridge as another dog joined us in the boat. Some barking and total disconsternation by Ty resulted in him hopping off the boat at the earliest opportunity and running around until the imposter dog had left.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29860336105/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.14.48"><img alt="20160914 Crossing the Avon 10.14.48" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7484/29860336105_240057a272_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a gorgeous day and I'm glad I made the effort to pop down. Now I'm clear for river crossings for the rest of the season. March on Ruth, march on.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-60190581265742470722016-09-22T20:18:00.003+01:002016-09-22T20:22:21.120+01:00Tide Waiting (and Chartered Surveyor 1 - Antiques Dealer 0)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Four - Noss Mayo to Bigbury-on-Sea 20.6km (12.8 miles).<br />Time on route 6:50hrs, walking time 5:20hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Friday 09 September 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29053432204/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 34 map SWCP"><img alt="Day 34 map SWCP" height="168" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8343/29053432204_4fd937334e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I was in no hurry to leave this morning. I had to wade the River Erme and you can only do that an hour each side of low tide. And this was at 1653 BST (OK and also at 0430 but that was daft). So I had a terribly lazy breakfast and chatted to Roger, my B&B host.<br />
<br />
Roger is a retired antiques dealer but initially trained as a surveyor back in his youth. We therefore had an interesting discussion about trig pillars. I'd said there was one near the path that I was going to bag on my way out that morning. "Ah yes, he said, "you passed it on your way here. "No, I didn't," I replied, "that wasn't a proper trig pillar." I wish I'd taken a photo of it. It was certainly trig like - square based, indentation in top for a reflector etc but it wasn't an OS one. It was too short and too wide. And there was no flush bracket. And it wasn't at the top of the hill but beside a path. I showed Roger on the map where the OS trig was. He remonstrated that perhaps the farmer had moved it.<br />
<br />
Anyway, as he had nothing better to do than prove me wrong, he wandered out with me. As we neared where I thought it would be I explained it'd be in the hedge, probably with a gap in the bushes where other trig baggers had ascended, that it could be damaged on the top from hedge cutting, it'd have a 3 pronged spider in the top etc. <br />
<br />
Roger remained unconvinced and I should have taken him up on his £10 bet. Wished I had as, ta dah, guess what we came across! <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/338">TP0338</a>.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29052510484/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_1 TP0338 - Revelstoke 5.52"><img alt="20160909_1 TP0338 - Revelstoke 5.52" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7787/29052510484_ee651107a8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
"Well I never," he muttered. "Perhaps you do know what you're talking about." <br />
<br />
You can even see the damage the hedge trimmer has done.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29054161543/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_1 TP0338 - Revelstoke 3.23"><img alt="20160909_1 TP0338 - Revelstoke 3.23" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8034/29054161543_b8cf1ae8f9_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Roger joined me for a km or so and we strolled the Revelstoke Drive. At one stage Roger asked me about Mean Sea Level. "As you know, mean sea level varies so how can you measure heights to it?" he quizzed. A few minutes later, after hearing my explanation, he wearily said "OK, I guess you know your stuff don't you?" And then rued that he hadn't tested me on my antiques knowledge whilst I'd been at his B&B so I could benefit from his specialist knowledge too. I'd have been hopeless!<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29567797482/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_2 Revelstoke Drive"><img alt="20160909_2 Revelstoke Drive" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8126/29567797482_538fae82bc_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Once off the drive the path started to undulate more.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29388268610/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_4 Tree 35"><img alt="20160909_4 Tree 35" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8477/29388268610_6bb2ae074d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The photos never portray the steepness adequately but today's leg was billed as the most strenuous in South Devon.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29567902962/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_5 Beacon Hill"><img alt="20160909_5 Beacon Hill" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8394/29567902962_1fd4900ee0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Grey clouds followed me all day but the rain held off which was kind. The wind was fierce though with significant gusts. Just what I like when I'm battling stiff descents and ascents...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29054526913/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_7 Near Bugle Hole"><img alt="20160909_7 Near Bugle Hole" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8830/29054526913_2cecd3088a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I strolled across Meadowsfoot Beach.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29388535630/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_8 Meadowsfoot Beach 3.37.31"><img alt="20160909_8 Meadowsfoot Beach 3.37.31" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8458/29388535630_6b6950cc13_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And as I turned the corner got my first view of the River Erme.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29598142531/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_8 Meadowsfoot Beach 4.36.54"><img alt="20160909_8 Meadowsfoot Beach 4.36.54" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8477/29598142531_1c82d34997_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Up at Mothercombe, a 300m climb up a road, there is a seasonal cafe so I plonked myself there for a while warming up on tea. I then tired of this and headed down to the beach to see if anyone had crossed the river yet. I suspected not as it was 2.5 hours before low tide. Roger had told me I could cross it with 2 hours to go but as he was over 6' in height I took his "don't worry - you'll be fine" with a pinch of salt.<br />
<br />
So I sat and waited.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29388674410/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 4.50.47"><img alt="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 4.50.47" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8241/29388674410_df3d3deec2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Soon a chap bounced past and jittered backwards and forwards by the river looking for a point to cross. He managed to wade across but I couldn't see how deep it got. But it looked safe enough. I gave it another 30 minutes then stripped down to my shorts, carried my boots and headed across.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29388740310/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 5.20.33"><img alt="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 5.20.33" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7750/29388740310_1acffa87af_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It got knee deep as I waded across. I didn't realise but I had an audience the other side who gave me a round of applause as I climbed out. Having proved it was possible, others started de-booting and wading across.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29598374731/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 5.29.49"><img alt="20160909_9 Crossing the Erme 5.29.49" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8016/29598374731_69ff03031f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I dried off, re-shoed and headed off pleased that I was an hour ahead of schedule. A final look back at the Erme.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29388854140/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_10 The Erme Estuary 7.37"><img alt="20160909_10 The Erme Estuary 7.37" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7788/29388854140_26feccf8f6_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I am usually a stickler for following the path to the tee. However with the strong gusts of wind even I decided that walking 1m away from the cliff edge was not sensible and I gave the path a few metres berth at this point.<br />
<br />
Burgh Island appeared on my horizon now. My end point for the day.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29644361556/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 6.13.10"><img alt="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 6.13.10" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8471/29644361556_62b3b48fba_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Getting closer.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29679966415/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 6.58.36"><img alt="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 6.58.36" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8003/29679966415_8b67da6ea8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And closer. Burgh Island has tidal access and a somewhat fancy hotel on it (<a href="http://www.burghisland.com/">Burgh Island</a>). I believe black tie is <i>de rigueur</i> for dinner.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29053547034/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 7.16.32"><img alt="20160909_11 Towards Burgh Island 7.16.32" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8159/29053547034_4fdbd2283e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I decided to see if I could push on to the River Avon. I knew the ferry had finished for the day but thought if I at least got as far as I could from the west it would help the next section.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29389237220/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_12 River Avon and Bantham 7.49.13"><img alt="20160909_12 River Avon and Bantham 7.49.13" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8255/29389237220_a9dfba0ff9_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
So I did. In fact I walked quite a way across the sand flats towards Bantham before heading back to the car pondering how I was going to cross this river before the ferry closed for the season.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29598803661/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160909_12 River Avon and Bantham 8.04.24"><img alt="20160909_12 River Avon and Bantham 8.04.24" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8537/29598803661_662f03f206_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-30473456258310323852016-09-22T10:40:00.003+01:002016-09-22T10:48:26.736+01:00Urban to Rural - Keeping Pace with the Path<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Three - Plymouth (Barbican) to Noss Mayo 21.3km (13.2 miles).<br />Time on route 6:55hrs, walking time 5:45hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Thursday 08 September 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29643294416/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 33 map SWCP"><img alt="Day 33 map SWCP" height="202" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8273/29643294416_b43974ed68_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Another two day trip beckoned. The logistics were awkward for this leg as although the bus map looked plentiful for the South Hams area of Devon, it hid the fact that the buses I needed only ran weekly. Yup - just once a week. I considered taxis but I couldn't find an available one. So I resorted to driving and parking at my end point for the Friday (Bigbury-on-Sea) then walking 5km up to a more regular bus route near Aveton Gifford. It was a bracing start to the day as I parked further from the bus stop than expected and had to leg it 5km over a hill in 1:15. I did it with 5 minutes to spare.<br />
<br />
As I sat on the bus trundling to Plymouth I realised that I had to maintain this reasonable pace for the day as I had a 1600 deadline for the River Yealm ferry. No rest for the weary and all that.<br />
<br />
I picked up the path at the Mayflower Steps, <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29035007343/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.04.30"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.04.30" height="320" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8220/29035007343_c6ac92e487_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
and headed towards the aquarium crossing Sutton Harbour. It was a beautiful day although the wind was strong and steady.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29659760285/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.04.47"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.04.47" height="320" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8311/29659760285_2fd3d24575_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The first few kilometres were through the industrial estates of Cattedown. I then crossed the Plym at Laira Bridge.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29035423213/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.39.41"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.39.41" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8368/29035423213_22ca0729a0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A backwater of the Plym contains several has-beens.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29660197535/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.48.35"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.48.35" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8547/29660197535_99d799ea8a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Today I discovered a wide variety of coast path sign. For a short while in Plymouth silver fish adorned my route.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29033326204/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.06.28"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.06.28" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7479/29033326204_a916d7b51a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
And whilst I was used to this marker by now I only realised on closer inspection that two of the arrows are painted white to indicate the direction to be taken. I hadn't spotted that on my last leg.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29659941815/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.27.44"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.27.44" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8818/29659941815_b8cee688ff_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Through suburbia many of the lampposts have acorns pasted on them which helps enormously. These steel ones were easier to spot.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29369405200/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.58.00"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.58.00" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8487/29369405200_1b348d9143_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
"Where's the path," I muttered to myself jabbing at my map as I checked my route. "There don't appear to be any acorns to guide me". I lifted my head and realised that this was about as clear a sign as I was ever going to get.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29548647522/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 11.15.22"><img alt="2016-09-08 11.15.22" height="320" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8637/29548647522_4a3d922721_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Once out of the industrial sector the path crosses Hooe and Radford Lakes. I just love Britain. One minute you're walking past a new hypermarket and the next you dip under a castle archway to cross a lake. <br />
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Beautiful pub at Clovelly.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29033767984/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 12.29.49"><img alt="2016-09-08 12.29.49" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8538/29033767984_f3dabd4b93_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
1.5 hours in and I was pretty much facing my start point of Sutton Harbour across Cattewater. Poof. Mount Batten Point has been much developed from its defensive and military requirements and now contains a variety of bar, cafe and chip shops.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29035632203/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 12.37.09"><img alt="2016-09-08 12.37.09" height="320" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8500/29035632203_45dc615570_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I liked this art. Initially I thought it was random blocks that no-one had bothered to move. But then I noticed that each one had a different set of initials in it.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29660377295/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 12.42.38"><img alt="2016-09-08 12.42.38" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8184/29660377295_f4f6a2a00f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And on their back they have morse phrases such as "I am on fire". <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29549277632/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 12.43.00"><img alt="2016-09-08 12.43.00" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8556/29549277632_8ef237c2c9_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As I trudged on the views back across Plymouth Sound grew more awesome.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29579105181/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 13.24.59"><img alt="2016-09-08 13.24.59" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8337/29579105181_ab388296be_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I climbed up Jennycliff and encountered another sign.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29624945376/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 13.13.12"><img alt="2016-09-08 13.13.12" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8016/29624945376_7dbcc08a81_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I forgot to wipe my feet as I left.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29369762060/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 13.13.21"><img alt="2016-09-08 13.13.21" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8123/29369762060_f9647e54e0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>The path stays high as you walk past Fort Bovisand.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29034458654/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 13.33.28"><img alt="2016-09-08 13.33.28" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8293/29034458654_08a5716a7d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Slow worm?<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29661356555/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 14.26.31"><img alt="2016-09-08 14.26.31" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8333/29661356555_e24f802862_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I keep forgetting how curved the Plymouth Breakwater is. I'm use to seeing it from the Hoe where it simply stretches across Plymouth Sound, and the fort looks to be part of the breakwater too from that angle. Nice to see it from a different perspective.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29034649234/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 13.49.54"><img alt="2016-09-08 13.49.54" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8082/29034649234_529b6180e0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As I came into Wembury I spotted a horse with a whacky blanket. Horse in zebra clothing.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29550219142/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 14.51.50"><img alt="2016-09-08 14.51.50" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7461/29550219142_f6df6e1bbd_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I was grateful to discover that I had 15 mins spare in Wembury. So I fell into the wonderful Old Mill Cafe whereupon I glugged two cans of coke straight off. I needed that.<br />
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I caught the ferry from Wembury Point with 5 minutes to spare. This is Bill the ferryman and passengers.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29034860744/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 15.51.37"><img alt="2016-09-08 15.51.37" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8037/29034860744_915da6e400_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As I was no longer time pressured I headed into Noss Mayo for a drink. The tide was low so I walked across this tributary of Newton Creek to the <a href="http://swan-inn.noss-mayo.com/">Swan Inn</a>.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29370619740/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 16.09.24"><img alt="2016-09-08 16.09.24" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8042/29370619740_f65d8d2474_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Lovely view in the sun :-)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29661472595/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 16.11.10"><img alt="2016-09-08 16.11.10" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7750/29661472595_ee232f80eb_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
After my wine I headed back and picked up the path, passing a old ferry sign.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29370681680/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 17.01.25"><img alt="2016-09-08 17.01.25" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8431/29370681680_a5c02b5ea7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
This bit of the path follows Revelstoke Drive, a 9 mile circular drive built by, you've guessed it, Lord Revelstoke in the 19th Century. Another drive built to show off one's estate - but they make for pleasant walking.<br />
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Just as I neared my B&B I encountered my key challenge of the day. I must be growing up - they scare me a little less than they used to.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29034968964/in/dateposted-public/" title="2016-09-08 17.44.49"><img alt="2016-09-08 17.44.49" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8420/29034968964_41db872394_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-46585620890274081702016-09-05T23:13:00.001+01:002016-09-14T21:59:00.365+01:00Farewell Cornwall, Old Friend<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty Two - Portwrinkle to Plymouth (Barbican) 26.9km (16.7 miles).<br />Time on route 7:25hrs, walking time 6:55hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Saturday 27 August 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29372765122/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 32 map SWCP"><img alt="Day 32 map SWCP" height="191" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8041/29372765122_a49431a250_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was my last day in Cornwall today. I arrived back in September 2014 and have taken just under 2 years to complete this county. It's been wonderful: the remote cliffs of north Cornwall, the quaint (oh so quaint!) fishing villages, the tourist honey pots of Padstow, St Ives, Penzance etc, the river crossings (Falmouth - you were complicated) and the amazing places I've found to stay. It's all been immensely memorable and rewarding. So, one last day...<br />
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Pretty soon after leaving Portwrinkle you reach the firing ranges at Tregantle. They weren't firing so I was able to walk through them.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29445305436/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_1 Tregantle Range 36.27"><img alt="20160827_1 Tregantle Range 36.27" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8350/29445305436_cabf6d3fc6_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
All very neat and tidy, tidy and neat. And quiet. Which is just how I like my firing ranges when I'm ambling through the middle of them.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29399796441/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_1 Tregantle Range 41.04"><img alt="20160827_1 Tregantle Range 41.04" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8843/29399796441_6949f1f7fd_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Next up were the Freathy Cliffs. The guide book described the area around Freathy as full of huts, shacks and chalets. I'm not sure when a hut becomes a shack and graduates to becoming a chalet, but the ribbon development beneath the road wasn't beautiful. Just a load of seemingly unplanned buildings plopped on the cliff edge. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28855239844/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_2 Freathy Cliffs 43.50"><img alt="20160827_2 Freathy Cliffs 43.50" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8068/28855239844_a90db6d931_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Mind you, this chap looked as if he'd sorted himself with his memorabilia.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28857621813/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_2 Freathy Cliffs 27.38"><img alt="20160827_2 Freathy Cliffs 27.38" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8149/28857621813_15c2d667a0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
To add a little irritation the path was diverted due to a landslip but not terribly well signed. So I walked down from the road, through gorse for circa 10 minutes before finding a no entry sign and a weathered SWCP note to say the path ahead was blocked. Yes, I'd passed the sign up the trail saying "path closed" but as the paths criss cross every which way down these cliffs it was hard to tell that it was the SWCP that was diverted. The trudge back up the spiky gorse path was not my best SWCP moment.<br />
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I could see Rame Head before me and was keen to get there in 3 hours but with the couple of U turns I'd made I was fed up so plonked myself in the <a href="http://www.theview-restaurant.co.uk/">The View</a> cafe for a pep-me-up coke. <br />
<br />
Anyway, onwards. More gorse walking amongst the cliffs. I came across evidence of the MOD's presence here circa 150 years ago - a boundary stone at the delightfully named Wiggle.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29399990961/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_3 Wiggle boundary stone"><img alt="20160827_3 Wiggle boundary stone" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8558/29399990961_4f206f9aa2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Eventually I reached Rame Head. Poof.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29371274772/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_4 Rame Head"><img alt="20160827_4 Rame Head" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8887/29371274772_388581cb91_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I then turned east and rounded Penlee Point before descending northwards into Cawsand and Kingsand. These used to be in separate counties with the northerly Kingsand being in Devon and Cawsand in Cornwall. The boundary moved eastwards to the River Tamar in 1844. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29191551010/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_5 Kingsand and Cawsand 4.18.32"><img alt="20160827_5 Kingsand and Cawsand 4.18.32" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8007/29191551010_62b0d6d585_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There is a summer ferry that runs from Cawsand to Plymouth circumventing some of the path. I wasn't even remotely tempted.<br />
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Nice street art made from bottle tops and other recycled finds.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29191487020/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_5 Kingsand and Cawsand 4.17.39"><img alt="20160827_5 Kingsand and Cawsand 4.17.39" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8585/29191487020_32eb30a4f5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Leaving Kingsand you enter Mount Edgcumbe Country Park and the Plymouth estuary comes into view.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28855724934/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_7 Mount Edgcumbe 5.50.51"><img alt="20160827_7 Mount Edgcumbe 5.50.51" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8327/28855724934_ea1bc2f448_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Once again there were path diversions (these ones again not terribly well marked) and I wandered a little unsurely at times. You climb quite high toward Mount Edgcumbe House and, as you do, Drakes Island comes into focus.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28855696134/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_7 Mount Edgcumbe 5.40.47"><img alt="20160827_7 Mount Edgcumbe 5.40.47" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8240/28855696134_80fe83a42f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a sunny Saturday afternoon and the formal lawns of the Country Park were busy with visitors and some sort of medieval enactment. I pushed on to see if I could catch the ferry which was due in 10 minutes. And I did.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29194771850/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_8 Cremyll Ferry .06.41"><img alt="20160827_8 Cremyll Ferry .06.41" height="236" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8732/29194771850_f49cf1fce7_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29445948526/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_8 Cremyll Ferry .05.32"><img alt="20160827_8 Cremyll Ferry .05.32" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8457/29445948526_f09d961c9a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The Cremyll Ferry takes one across to the west side of Stonehouse. As you alight you find a marker for the SWCP.<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29194403850/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_9 SWCP in Plymouth .24.44"><img alt="20160827_9 SWCP in Plymouth .24.44" height="320" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8603/29194403850_b5ba52393f_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And accompanying you through Plymouth are pavement markers.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29371787622/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_9 SWCP in Plymouth .28.25"><img alt="20160827_9 SWCP in Plymouth .28.25" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8482/29371787622_4c6253a8a8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Stonehouse takes a while to clear as you sort of circumnavigate it. You head south toward Royal William Yard.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29400535971/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_10 Royal William Yard .36.55"><img alt="20160827_10 Royal William Yard .36.55" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8017/29400535971_037076f45f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Then southwest, south, east passing a tidal pool. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29480395585/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 6.46.21"><img alt="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 6.46.21" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8386/29480395585_c2728e79a2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The path then heads directly north coming within about 100m of your earlier route and there is a considerable inland section as you pass Stonehouse Barracks and Millbay Docks. It didn't take long before I was on home ground having lived in this area back in 1990. I pretty much walked within 50m of our first house in West Hoe.<br />
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The Hoe is most iconic and has wonderful buildings such as this set of steps.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28858670423/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.25.33"><img alt="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.25.33" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8180/28858670423_407ed361b0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And the lido which was being refurbish back in 1990.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29192231850/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.31.17"><img alt="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.31.17" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8328/29192231850_e437b88c4b_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
"Welcome Plymouth" announce the lawns of the Citadel. I suspect this is a new fangled modern idea - you can hardly imagine this being an invitation to the Spanish Armada back in the 16th Century. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28858784063/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.28.35"><img alt="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.28.35" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8179/28858784063_66a255af2f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I was looking forward to my daily trig treat. This one being the most unusual trig I know.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29480723675/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.37.43"><img alt="20160827_11 Plymouth Hoe 7.37.43" height="320" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8301/29480723675_8d1cfefaf4_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I finished my walk in the Barbican before catching the train home. The next leg promises more urban plodding and then a stroll out towards the beautiful South Hams area. It's good to be back in Devon although I'm going to miss you Cornwall.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-31725899622463282822016-09-05T21:17:00.001+01:002016-09-05T21:22:40.844+01:00More Ps - Polperro to Portwrinkle<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty One - Polperro to Portwrinkle 20.2km (12.6 miles).<br />Time on route 6:35hrs, walking time 5:50hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Friday 26 August 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29446621476/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 31 Map"><img alt="Day 31 Map" height="182" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8779/29446621476_3f141f3e05_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I travelled down to Polperro on the Thursday: an hour train journey from Exeter then 1:45 on the bus from Plymouth to Polperro. I stayed in the wonderful <a href="http://www.houseontheprops.co.uk/">House on the Props</a>. A view to kill for.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28761168023/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160825 Polperro 45.07"><img alt="20160825 Polperro 45.07" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8369/28761168023_0c208f6d3a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And my view in the morning. Tide's in.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29303545531/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_1 Polperro 24.13"><img alt="20160826_1 Polperro 24.13" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8085/29303545531_1456d931f9_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The harbour was well and truly full as I left this beautiful jigsaw puzzle picture place.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29382641935/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_1 Polperro 45.39"><img alt="20160826_1 Polperro 45.39" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8394/29382641935_0bd9c95877_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
What a gorgeous harbour.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29387789905/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_1 Polperro 49.02"><img alt="20160826_1 Polperro 49.02" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8371/29387789905_4c8069417c_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a pleasant stroll up shady paths past Porthallow and dropping down into Talland.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28764496244/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_5 Towards Millendreath3.03.42"><img alt="20160826_5 Towards Millendreath3.03.42" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8213/28764496244_29b340c3ab_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Annoyingly I missed the measured nautical mile markers that are in the fields here. I saw one from afar but passed it without realising as it was a few 100m back in the field. Anyway, I was probably distracted by the super clear waters. I love the colours of the rock both above and below sea level.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29280069312/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_3 Towards Looe 1.25.59"><img alt="20160826_3 Towards Looe 1.25.59" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8177/29280069312_3d4cd23133_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Soon I turned a corner and saw the packed beach of East Looe.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29309105211/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_4 Looe .29.26"><img alt="20160826_4 Looe .29.26" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8646/29309105211_ff06fff819_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The path takes you through West Looe and past <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/cornwall/content/articles/2008/01/23/aboutcornwall_nelsontheseal_feature.shtml">Nelson the one-eyed Seal</a>. This sculpture is a memorial to Looe's frequent visitor.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4579658985892078125"></a><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29354213016/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_4 Looe .32.29"><img alt="20160826_4 Looe .32.29" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8768/29354213016_7a7d853318_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Such a gorgeous stained glass window in a small chapel in West Looe.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29399735181/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_4 Looe .37.20"><img alt="20160826_4 Looe .37.20" height="320" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8401/29399735181_fd44115b2f_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
You have to walk about 0.5km into Looe to cross the bridge from West to East Looe.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/28764422744/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_4 Looe .42.53"><img alt="20160826_4 Looe .42.53" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8424/28764422744_f03f20223a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I didn't linger for long here. It was touristy and I felt out of place. I prefer the solitude and space of an open path. Ice-cream vans, fish and chip shops and trinket shops don't do it for me on a day like this. <br />
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I marched through Looe and soon climbed out of it through Plaidy. Another pretty window.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29280301702/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_4 Looe .54.34"><img alt="20160826_4 Looe .54.34" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8276/29280301702_3bd5bf50e8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I got a bit lost east of Looe. I was following the text and maps from my guide book but they didn't seem to correlate. I was kicking myself that I hadn't checked the route on the SWCP site as they always list local deviations. Anyway, there was nothing for it but to follow the acorn signs even if they did take me away from the coast (this agreed with the words in the book but not the map - it's as if they are on different edition cycles). Anyway, imagine my excitement when I realised the diverted SWCP went past <a href="http://trigpointing.uk/trig/6235">TP6235</a>, Struddick trig pillar. It was a short scramble up, and a few bramble scratches, but, ah, a trig hug :-)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29190529960/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_6 trig TP6235 - Struddick"><img alt="20160826_6 trig TP6235 - Struddick" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8075/29190529960_8287dd3751_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I dropped down into Seaton and enjoyed a drink at the local bar with glorious views across the sea. The route then follows a road through Downderry before a final push over the cliffs to Port Wrinkle.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29190556250/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .06.00"><img alt="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .06.00" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8532/29190556250_06fb03ffbf_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
As I passed the beach car park I was amused by the parking charges in the winter. The cost is 10p per hour but on closer inspection of the machine (for some reason I thought this to be necessary) I noted the sign that said "this machine does not take 10 pence pieces". Nice one.<br/>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29190941870/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .06.48"><img alt="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .06.48" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8119/29190941870_56079f1be4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I actually walked a few 100m past Port Wrinkle before coming off the path. Looking back you can see the imposing <a href="http://www.whitsandbayhotel.co.uk/">Whitsand Bay Hotel</a>. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29399563001/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .11.33"><img alt="20160826_7 Port Wrinkle .11.33" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8113/29399563001_efdb1c8d91_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I walked across the golf course up into Crafthole to the <a href="http://www.finnygook.co.uk/">Finnygook Inn</a>. What a lovely pub with such a glorious view over dinner.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29401791601/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_8 Crafthole 8.59.57"><img alt="20160826_8 Crafthole 8.59.57" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8230/29401791601_3b837e57ee_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Looking towards Plymouth. It looked terribly close but I knew I was hardly going to be walking in a straight line the next day...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/29479451395/in/dateposted-public/" title="20160826_8 Crafthole 7.24.36"><img alt="20160826_8 Crafthole 7.24.36" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8507/29479451395_16f752ff33_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-4625984903260269702016-06-10T21:34:00.000+01:002016-06-10T21:34:14.937+01:00Par Pain Polperro<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Thirty - Par to Polperro 22.6km (14.1 miles).<br />Time on route 7:05hrs, walking time 6:20hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Tuesday 07 June 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973569543/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 30 map"><img alt="Day 30 map" height="167" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7568/26973569543_790ee16841_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
My back was stiff and sore this morning so I decided to see how far I'd get. I started off at Par Sands and after winding through the back of Par Beach it was a good stretch of sand across Par Sands. Needless to say I was relieved when I moved onto more solid ground with the track around the back of the beach, and then it was an upwards climb towards Polkerris.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27582121925/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (2) Par Sands"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (2) Par Sands" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7355/27582121925_e57425acc0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a beautiful day to be on the path.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305139300/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (4)"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (4)" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7436/27305139300_b79a6e89fb_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Polkerris appeared quickly. Another pretty unspoilt harbour.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27509407381/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (5) Polkerris"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (5) Polkerris" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7051/27509407381_3c9e9ff27b_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I didn't linger but pushed on up and out of the cove towards Gribbin Head. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305132230/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (9) Gribbin Head"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (9) Gribbin Head" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7392/27305132230_4b2a423953_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The 26 metre daymark is unmissable and was built by Trinity House to distinguish it from other South Cornish headlands.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973436913/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (8) Gribbin Head"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (8) Gribbin Head" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7293/26973436913_0c9ed7eb80_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Dropping down you enter Polridmouth Beach which is thought to be the beach that Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca is based on ('Mandeley' being Menabilly Barton which is close by). <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27509401961/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (9) Polridmouth"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (9) Polridmouth" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7590/27509401961_ca4542ac55_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I bet this well appointed dwelling goes for a packet.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973415843/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (10) Polridmouth"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (10) Polridmouth" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7438/26973415843_94a0d3117a_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Once around Gribbin Head the Fowey estuary appeared.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27582160955/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (12) Towards Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (12) Towards Fowey" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7687/27582160955_89d4c6148d_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Wow, it really is quite breath taking isn't it?<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973472963/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (14) Towards Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (14) Towards Fowey" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7034/26973472963_8cf85e35b8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I bumped into the start of the <a href="http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/countryside/cycle-routes-and-trails/the-saints-way/?page=13231">Saints Way</a> here. So acorns and crosses shared posts for a while.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548031716/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (15) Towards Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (15) Towards Fowey" height="320" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7725/27548031716_99b3eba849_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
As per many of these quaint and beautiful Cornish villages, they have been invaded by rich 'outsiders' who have either retired in the South West or bought a second home here. It is a contentious subject and pushes house prices up significantly forcing locals out. And then people wonder why there is no-one to service their cooker, or clean their house/car(s)? Anyway, I digress, but seeing these two cars side-by-side, obviously owned by someone who had enough spare money to buy expensive vehicles and then personalised number plates with the left over cash, made me think.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548020796/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (17) Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (17) Fowey" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7402/27548020796_fd98383a7f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And, now I remember, I saw a house on the Monday that was being renovated and had a sign outside stating "Joe and Liz are having an amazingly beautiful new kitchen and lounge fitted by Howdens!" Lucky Joe and Liz to have a spare house being renovated whilst they live elsewhere. Seemed a little pretentious to me.<br />
<br />
Back to the walk. Passed these creatures in a garden. Think they are something to do with Wind in the Willows but not 100% sure. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27509431711/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (18) Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (18) Fowey" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7548/27509431711_47f45cf07e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
So pretty. Makes you want to move here :p<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548012336/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (19) Fowey"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (19) Fowey" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7403/27548012336_b7bd3e76c6_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I got a little confused with where the Polruan Ferry left from as its Fowey departure point moves depending on the time of day. First thing/evening it's one location and for the chunk of the day it's another. I had researched them but got them the wrong way round in my head but didn't take too long to find it. The price had gone up too. It was £1.80 on the web. £2.00 in reality.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26972265944/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (22) Fowey to Polruan Ferry"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (22) Fowey to Polruan Ferry" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7639/26972265944_9e28bde222_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It's a short hop across the river. Poor Mary was worried that she'd left something on the stove.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548079586/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (23) Fowey to Polruan Ferry"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (23) Fowey to Polruan Ferry" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7083/27548079586_7e41434439_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Alighting at Polruan.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305219030/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (20) Fowey to Polruan Ferry"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (20) Fowey to Polruan Ferry" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7405/27305219030_81a7b4d514_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I stopped for a short break in the Luggar Inn and then headed onwards. My back was not in good shape but my head overruled as it was such a glorious day. It was a shame to waste it by giving in to a bit of pain.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305210180/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (25) Polruan"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (25) Polruan" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7288/27305210180_aef1a8c1ea_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
A few favourite things in one photo. Old road sign + Coast Path signpost + benchmark.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26972260104/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (26) Polruan"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (26) Polruan" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7086/26972260104_b620fd4222_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Yes, a great day to be on the path. And a clear reminder of the direction of the prevailing wind.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26972307664/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (27) From Polruan"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (27) From Polruan" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7423/26972307664_df1409d574_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Lantic Bay soon loomed.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548114506/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (28) Lantic Bay"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (28) Lantic Bay" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7516/27548114506_682e4ba193_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The leg from Par to Polperro was branded "easy then strenuous" in the guide book which is exactly the wrong way for any day's walk, especially when you are becoming less abled with each step. And, indeed, the path upped the ante on the angle of the ascents and descents.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973542273/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (31)"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (31)" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7389/26973542273_23ddf366a3_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I muttered and winced but kept going. By the time I spied Polperro I was limping but I was determined to get there: not that I had a lot of choice as I had to finish somewhere with a bus/semblance of public transport. As I hobbled into Polperro I spotted this Victorian outdoor pool on the cliff - magnificent! [Bottom right of photo].<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973540013/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (32) Polperro"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (32) Polperro" height="240" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/8/7233/26973540013_f8bdd278de_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And then into Polperro itself.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26973538313/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (33) Polperro"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (33) Polperro" height="240" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7384/26973538313_69a5b59bce_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Polperro harbour: the village on jigsaws, calendars and fudge packets the country over.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305238270/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (34) Polperro"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (34) Polperro" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7215/27305238270_228ac8d968_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I was an hour early for the bus to Polruan. Bus to Polruan. Wait for ferry. Walk to bus stop. Bus to Par. I cracked. I rang for a cab. I figured it wasn't going to cost oodles more to take a taxi than do the three legged public transport solution. And I hurt. And a cab was going to get me to my car over an hour earlier. And why am I justifying this?! <br />
<br />
So I whizzed back to Par quickly, although we had to await the Bodinnick car ferry which I didn't mind at all.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27548130476/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (35) Bodinnick Ferry"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (35) Bodinnick Ferry" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7753/27548130476_7a3a58b9a5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I haven't been over this since about 2000 so it was time for a revisit.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483348962/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 07 Day 30 (36) Bodinnick Ferry"><img alt="16 06 07 Day 30 (36) Bodinnick Ferry" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7401/27483348962_1de3d25fec_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-41848291899410849562016-06-10T17:36:00.002+01:002016-06-10T17:40:38.960+01:00Flutterflies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Twenty Nine - Mevagissey to Par 17.1km (10.5 miles).<br />Time on route 4:40hrs, walking time 04:25hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Monday 06 June 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483071112/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 29 map"><img alt="Day 29 map" height="213" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7054/27483071112_a5c735fa63_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I left the car at St Austell and caught the bus to Mevagissey. I wasn't sure how far I was going to walk today due to my pesky sciatica. I was flexible (except for in my lower back sadly) re: timing and where I came off route and returned to my car later. Charlestown seemed do-able. However I met a fellow walker at the bus stop in St Austell who, too, was walking from Mevagissey. He was stopping at Charlestown. When I suggested I may go further he raised his eyebrows "ah, that's a long way then," he replied. Game on. Past Charlestown it was then.<br />
<br />
Mevagissey is a very pretty harbour. The tide was out and someone was tending to their boat.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27509260091/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (1) Mevagissey"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (1) Mevagissey" height="240" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7322/27509260091_729f65d427_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27304969810/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (2) Mevagissey"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (2) Mevagissey" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7615/27304969810_441b414f1c_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Pentewan was the first bay I came to. You skirt behind a large caravan park along the road into the village. I was stopped here by a couple in a kit car where the retired chap barked "Heligan!" at me. No, I didn't know the way to the Lost Gardens either. However, his car was at least pointing in the right direction.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27509272751/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (3) Pentewan"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (3) Pentewan" height="240" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7746/27509272751_0d96acdde8_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There was a plethora of wildlife on view today. Much of it was flying (hence the title of today's blog - it reminds me of a made up name for all things that fluttered in a children's story book). Brown and blue butterflies/moths flitted in and out of my route, along with birds of prey soaring above and beetles scurrying past. There were cows aplenty and I even bravely walked within 2 metres of one enroute. I was relieved I only spotted the nearby bull once near the stile [that would have been emotionally messy otherwise]. And the only thing that stood still long enough for me to bother taking a photo was this interesting, teenage-giggling-inducing, fungi. <br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483084242/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (4)"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (4)" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7551/27483084242_9f8a3ed950_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There are quite a few land/sea defences around here - par for the course I suppose on the south coast of the UK. A deserted lookout sat forlorn in a field.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27547831846/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (5) Disused lookout"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (5) Disused lookout" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7356/27547831846_12fba3d423_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
There weren't too many climbs today.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483080422/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (6) Porthtowan"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (6) Porthtowan" height="320" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7005/27483080422_4e9dfa92f7_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And they were infinitely preferable to descents which jarred my poorly back every jolt of the way.<br />
<br />
More fungi. Fewer giggles.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27547821436/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (8)"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (8)" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7302/27547821436_15d4eabfb0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Charlestown appeared earlier than expected, probably because I was plodding on with no stops.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27547848316/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (11) Charlestown"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (11) Charlestown" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7242/27547848316_837d4d2ca2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It is still a working harbour and seems to have a penchant for rigged boats.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483122182/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (12) Charlestown"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (12) Charlestown" height="240" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7080/27483122182_f9eb4859f5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Oodles of maritime history here. Bliss (sigh).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27483119912/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (13) Charlestown"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (13) Charlestown" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7441/27483119912_31bbedee1f_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
But of course I didn't linger as I'm walking, not touristing. <br />
<br />
The National Coastwatch has a lookout just to the east of Charlestown.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305009240/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (16)Charlestown Coastwatch"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (16)Charlestown Coastwatch" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7288/27305009240_56d34d64de_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
My back was really annoying me by this juncture but I wandered on, not wanting to admit early defeat. Once past Charlestown you near Carlyon Bay and a huge golf course which you hug for a kilometre or so. There are few glimpses of the beach but this one amused me. I wondered what was going on here with its imported pot-plant palm trees and kitsch tropical nirvana. It turns out this is the former Cornwall Coliseum ('entertainment capital of the SouthWest'). To say it's in redevelopment would be generous. But I'm sure it'll come good.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/27305006420/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (19) Carlyon Bay"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (19) Carlyon Bay" height="240" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7623/27305006420_59922cf7f2_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was pretty flat by now as I neared Par Sands. Thank goodness. The whole of my back was grumping and I limped on past the China Clay factory into Par Sands.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26972082954/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 06 06 Day 29 (20) Par China Clay Factories"><img alt="16 06 06 Day 29 (20) Par China Clay Factories" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7359/26972082954_fe690a7ffc_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I caught the bus back to St Austell from Par and had a night on the town in St Austell that evening. If you've ever been to St Austell on a Monday night you'll know that perhaps I added a little panache to my former sentence...
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4579658985892078125.post-7060844870665974972016-04-22T22:01:00.000+01:002016-04-22T22:01:07.022+01:00Horns and Rule Following<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>Day Twenty Eight - Porthole to Mevagissey 19.8km (12.3 miles).<br />Time on route 6:10hrs, walking time 05:30hrs.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Tuesday 19 April 2016</b><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26455399672/in/dateposted-public/" title="Day 28 map"><img alt="Day 28 map" height="225" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1621/26455399672_b25a320696_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was a prompt (for us) start after an overnight stay in Porthole. Stuffed full of eggs and toast we left Portloe in the sun.<br />
<br />
I smiled at the creativity of the house decoration.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/25944812753/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (1) Portloe"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (1) Portloe" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1546/25944812753_07dbc84931_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
And the post topper.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26455387532/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (2) Portloe"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (2) Portloe" height="320" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1637/26455387532_cf352ba3ea_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
It was another morning of undulating SWCP. We weren't as prepared as we should have been for the sun - unforecast I hasten to add. I'd forgotten a sunhat (I had woolly hat, gloves and waterproof as any Brit on the move would rightly carry) so had to improvise with a buff, and Caitlin had left her sunglasses in the car at Probus.<br />
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We'd had a mini cow encounter yesterday, but they were afar across the field and not too scary. Today was different. As we approached a gate east of East Portholland we saw a herd of bullocks tightly huddled. We then saw a couple walking through them and some stamping of feet (from the cows) and arm waving (from the humans). As they extracted themselves from the field we noticed they had a dog, which explained the discombobulation from the cows.<br />
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I was pretty anxious at this point, dog or no dog, and asked the couple about the animals. "I'm really nervous about cows," I explained trying to sound like a slightly normal person. "Oh, don't worry about them," the lady grinned. "Nothing to worry about". "Indeed," replied the gentleman. "They're fine. Oh, just watch out for the one with horns."<br />
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HORNS? That bullock had horns? That makes it bull-like in my head.<br />
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Caitlin nudged me towards the gate and we waited whilst the animals drifted off. We hatched a plan involving doing 3 sides of the field, and I was mentally planning how quickly I could jump over the barbed wired gorse hedge. However as we entered the enclosure the mind-reading bullocks wandered towards the corner we were heading for. So we reverted to Plan A and took the direct route across. This I did, briskly, head down, with Caitlin behind me responding to my rapid questioning "are they following us? are they still there?" Honestly - what a mother.<br />
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It transpired that Plan A wasn't actually the official route but, purist that I am, there are times when I overrule myself. And cow avoidance is far higher than sticking to the rules. Caitlin did roll her eyes, though, at me retracing as much of the path as I could and doing two sides of a triangle to ensure I didn't 'cheat' too much.<br />
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The next beach, Porthlune Cove, had a treat in store. It is home to Caerhays Castle, designed by John Nash who was also responsible for Buckingham Palace and the Brighton Pavilion. Approaching it from the west it is hidden, it's only as you pass it and climb out the east side of the cove that you see how majestic it is.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26547729505/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (3) Caerhays Castle and Porthlune Cove"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (3) Caerhays Castle and Porthlune Cove" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1600/26547729505_5f7c35a950_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26481657691/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (5) Caerhays Castle and Porthlune Cove"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (5) Caerhays Castle and Porthlune Cove" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1500/26481657691_b4b1ec7c99_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We had had Dodman Point in our sights for the whole morning. Initially it had seemed far to far away to be our pre-lunch goal but, km by km, it edged closer and the cross came into focus.<br />
<br />
And finally we reached it.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26274839830/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (7) Dodman Point"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (7) Dodman Point" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1457/26274839830_33cae5f863_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
However, that wasn't my true goal at Dodman Point. There is a trig pillar up there so we glanced briefly at the cross then went in search of our Holy Grail. It was easy to spot just behind the lookout hut.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/25942738154/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (12) Dodman Point"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (12) Dodman Point" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1592/25942738154_0360faeae0_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I did the obligatory hug (I suspect these things don't get many) and wished it a happy 80th birthday for the day before. [Read all it on the Ordnance Survey page <a href="https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/blog/2016/04/happy-80th-birthday-to-the-trig-pillar/">here</a> and the BBC, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-36036561">here</a>].<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26274835740/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (10) Dodman Point"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (10) Dodman Point" height="320" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1714/26274835740_83213b06ae_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
I was slightly conscious that we weren't making over fast speed. However, I said the magic words to my teenager and, zoom, she was off. The magic words? "Oh, I hope we make Gorran Haven before the pub stops serving food".<br />
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And we did.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/25942732934/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (15) Gorran Haven"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (15) Gorran Haven" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1611/25942732934_da8d92f660_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We ate in the lovely <a href="http://www.thellawnroc.co.uk/">Lawnroc Hotel</a> however we didn't linger as we had a bus to catch.<br />
<br />
It was 5.6km to Mevagissey and we had 1:45 in which to do it which was plenty but we didn't linger.<br />
<br />
Chapel Point looked gorgeous in the sun.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26481642251/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (16) Chapel Point"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (16) Chapel Point" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1484/26481642251_4a5f6581a6_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We descended into Portmellon.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26521744796/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (18) Portmellon"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (18) Portmellon" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1628/26521744796_66d4ee9386_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
What beautiful shadows from the gate.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26521746686/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (17) Portmellon"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (17) Portmellon" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1650/26521746686_8b9dfa7742_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Mevagissey is a classic double harbour - I know given the choice between Portloe and Mevagissey where I'd sail to in a storm.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26455408122/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (19) Portmellon"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (19) Portmellon" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1497/26455408122_f7fedab1f4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26547748295/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (21) Mevagissey"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (21) Mevagissey" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1651/26547748295_d0393b8001_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
The boats glistened in the sun.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/7717568@N07/26547746125/in/dateposted-public/" title="16 04 19 Day 28 (23) Mevagissey"><img alt="16 04 19 Day 28 (23) Mevagissey" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1667/26547746125_6e623d2a70_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We arrived in Mevagissey with 30 minutes to spare. Which was just as well because the bus stop wasn't obvious. Mevagissey sits at the termination of a route served by only one bus number. We asked the car park attendant where the bus stop was. "Which way are you going love?" he asked. Umm, out of Mevagissey?<br />
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Our route back to the car was via St Austell where we changed buses. St Austell rail and bus station is a great place to swap transport as it has a cafe where you can plonk yourself over a coffee whilst waiting your bus. And plonk we did with our sun-caught faces, weary feet, stiff legs and smiles.<br />
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532973174346375029noreply@blogger.com0