New Valley Hills

Enjoyed my first foot rest after 4 hours, 13k from Bournemouth.

Quite poor visibility from Old Harry. Poole and Sandbanks visible, with Bournemouth faded out and no sign of Isle of Wight.

The pleasure of the views and a rest somewhat drowned out by pleasure craft below on the water- jet skis, speed boats, motor launches and pleasure cruisers with audible tannoy commentary drifting up to me.

I felt sorry for a European tourist who’d lost contact with his drone trying to fly it though the sea arches at the base of the white cliffs. While I hate them wizzing near me it was sad to see someone lose their toy.

I’m regretting, on day one, not bringing a cook set. I reasoned there’d be enough pasties and cream teas to fuel my adventures. What I didn’t predict was wild mushrooms growing on the Purbeck Hills. With a pat of local salted butter with a hunk of bread I could’ve eaten these tonight.

Ah well, I made up for it by gorging on blackberries.

Chuffing hot 18.5k walked today. 25C by the time I reached the campsite.

My tent spot for tonight is Ulwell Holiday Park at £11. They do do single night stays for walkers even though their booking website offers minimum 2 nights.

Their shop sells rhubarb and rosehip ice cream by the scoop. Yummy!

Site has an indoor heated pool, included in the price. Yippee!