New Valley Hills

After a restful afternoon, with cleaner clothes and cooling weather it’s time to get a wriggle on. Though up at 0550 and departing 2 hours later is hardly fast. Today is East Weymouth and as much of Portland I can manage. An amusing anecdote from a 70 year old chap at dishwashing station about his Continue reading

Woken during the night to unexpected squals. Buttoned down the tent and closed both flys which had been open for ventilation. It didn’t get below 17C and 80% humidity all night. Sweltering! Up at 0530, had a slow start with stoveless coffee and my porridge mixture. A couple of section-hikers going the other way had Continue reading

Walked out of the ranges at 0630. It felt magical to be walking the coast that early – so quiet and isolated. And delights of delights, it was relatively cool. Forecast to reach 27C, I wanted to get over the big hills to Lulworth Cove before lunch. I did! The coast is so photogenic. Too Continue reading

Lesson learnt today – pigeons will always win. Last night my allocated camp spot was under a tree. There was evidence of poop on part of the pitch. No problem, I’ll use the other half. You can see where this is going! Woke during to night to ‘things’ falling on the tent. The morning revealed Continue reading

Swanage is lovely. Nice shops and people nestled away from urban Bournemouth. Gently sloping waters fine for swimming and a fishing community. I’d like to revisit for a few days holiday. Some fine local walks for tourists. Learning a lesson from previous long distance hikes I’ve been looking after my feet better from the off. Continue reading

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 Continue reading

I started travelling today, though the walk proper kicks off tomorrow. Lisa delivered to me to sleepy Yatton train station. I’m sure she wanted to make sure I was actually going to be away for the next five weeks or so. 😘 Yatton to Bristol Temple Meads, change for Southampton, finally change for Bournemouth. Though Continue reading