Just had a couple of days down in Dorset, staying in a rather nice 'barn
conversion' B&B outside Kingston village, up the road from Corfe Castle.
Clare and I have walked this area a few times, but on a daily basis making
it a long outing with a 160 mile round trip. So, staying in the region
meant we could have a relaxing pace with plenty of time to admire the sea
views.
We arrive mid-afternoon Monday, having stopped for lunch at Wareham Quay
...... and not what I expected! Anyway, having unpacked, we went for a
stroll through Kingston and down to Chapman's Pool, a tranquil bay nestled
between Houns-tout Cliffs and St Alban's Head. The temperature was rather
nice, although there was a thin layer of high clouds taking the strength out
of the sun. Clare sat above the beach area while I clambered down for a few
photos. We eventually made our way back to Kingston, stopping off in the
Scott Arms for a few of beers and food; and what a cracking view from the
garden down to Corfe Castle!
Tues was our first 'planned' walk, starting from our accommodation. The
start took us onto the Purbeck Way, through Worth Matravers, to join the
South West Coast Path at Seacombe Cliffs. A very pleasant walk down, but
not a lot of sunshine. Still, it was very warm. Set off west for St
Alban's Head, but became a little concerned at the dark clouds above the sea
.... I thought we should be covering up from the sun! Soon after passing
Winsip area, the heavens opened up, and did it rain. Fortunately we both
had jackets, but I was in shorts and Clare had no leggings, so it wasn't
long before the feet were squelching. By the time we reached St Alban's
Head, we were both drenched to the skin; great Dorset heat-wave! We
eventually arrived back at our room looking like drowned rats. However, by
6PM we were in the pub garden basking under glorious sunshine enjoying fine
wine, beer and food.
Wednesday was again walking from the accommodation. Set out through
Kingston and followed the path out onto Houns-tout Cliffs. My worse
nightmare was realised too halfway out, having to pass some horrid bovine
machines, especially after my recent encounters with some of their Hampshire
cousins! Why do they always 'hang about' near gates and stiles! Anyway, we
safely passed through them and turned west along the coastal path bound for
Kimmeridge Bay. Today was a lot brighter than soggy Tuesday, although still
with a light covering of clouds. Eventually arrived on the cliff close to
Clavel Tower, and stopped for a long break in the warm of the day. Really
pleasing lying on the grass listening to the Gulls and gentle wash of the
waves in the bay. We eventually set off passing through Kimmeridge village,
then following the path up to Swire Head. Stopped at Swire Head for lunch,
relaxing on a large bench with great views, although tempered a little by
the haze along the coast. Once back on the move, we joined a country lane
taking us back into Kingston - passing the pub - and back to our room
felling 'chilled out' and very dry. We had another evening in the garden
at the pub, enjoying the sun before our departure Thursday morning.
Slideshow of photos from the 2 walks at the web address below.
--
Sandy Saunders @ www.thewalkzone.co.uk
'Mountains or Mole Hills, summiting
still brings the same excitement!'
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