The one with the hedgehog, coffee with a view, and some large footprints.
📍 Location: Worth Matravers
🥾 Distance: 8.5 miles
🌦️ Weather: Perfect for walking—a bright, sunny day with a refreshing breeze.
HIGHLIGHTS:
🚐 Early Start: Sid and I set off early, anticipating potential parking challenges in Worth Matravers. To my delight, we found ample parking, and the donation was only £2—a refreshing change from yesterday’s steep £20 fee.
🦔 A Thoughtful Gift: By 9:30 am, Emma Sutherland and Lisa Noades had arrived, eager to join today’s adventure after missing out yesterday. Just then, I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was Jan B, handing me a small box. Inside, I found the most adorable crocheted hedgehog, complete with a walking pole and a tiny rucksack. It was a lovely and thoughtful gesture from Jan, and it immediately brightened my day.
Thanks Jan
🧘 Morning Prep: Meanwhile, Lou, Sue, and Janet M were in the car park, getting into the spirit of the day with some yoga stretches.
🌳 And We’re Off: At 9:40am, after a quick briefing, we embarked on our walk. The start was quite different from yesterday as we meandered through wooded areas and along a dry stream. “This is lovely,” Emma commented, “but it feels like the calm before the storm.” She was spot on! Twenty minutes later, we turned left and faced our first climb of the day. The sudden incline prompted everyone to peel off layers. But reaching the summit was worth it—the view of the deep blue sea against the dramatic coastline was simply breathtaking.
🤩 Following the Coastal Path: By 10:20am, we were following the Coastal Path towards St Aldhelm’s Head. Anyone familiar with the South West Coast Path or the South Downs knows that coastal walks are far from leisurely, and today’s route was no exception.
🏔️ The Big Climb: At 11am, we conquered a particularly tough ascent. The group paused at the top, catching our breath, as Lisa and Emma shared that they had counted over 200 steps! It’s safe to say we’ll be feeling this climb tomorrow.
☕️ Coffee with a View: Our first break came at 11:10am, at a charming little coastguard station complete with a church. The owners were kind enough to brew fresh coffee for us, asking only for a small donation. The spot was so peaceful, with stunning views, that I could have easily spent the whole afternoon there. But with six more miles to cover, we pressed on.
🐮 A Close Call with Cows: At 12:29pm, something caught my eye—a group of cows, not just any cows, but ones with horns and calves. I immediately thought of one of our hikers who has a strong phobia of cows. I was at the back of the group with a few others, and as we turned right through a gate, we found ourselves facing a field full of cows at the bottom of a hill. Lou, who was waiting for me, assured me that despite some heavy breathing, everyone had made it through the field unscathed. Phew!
🏊 Dancing Edge: By 1:12pm, we navigated a deep gorge and ascended towards a place called Dancing Edge. The views remained spectacular, and we passed by a natural swimming pool nestled in the rocks below. The beach nearby was bustling with activity.
🥪 Lunch Break Fun: At 1:30pm, we found shelter from the wind behind a wall for a well-deserved break. What started as a casual rest quickly turned into a competition—who could stand up from a seated position without using their hands? Laughter ensued as Rebecca put her legs behind her head, and Caroline gave it a go too. These flexible folks never cease to amaze!
🦖 Dinosaur Footprints: By 1:53pm, we arrived at the famous Dinosaur Footprints. To be honest, they were a bit underwhelming—more like holes in the rock that required some imagination to see as dinosaur tracks. But the group took it in stride, with some even doing their best dinosaur impressions, complete with T-Rex arms and roars, which certainly helped bring the scene to life.
🍺 Back to Worth Matravers: At 2:30pm, we returned to Worth Matravers and headed straight to the Square and Compass. They’ve got a simple but brilliant business model—only serving pasties. The food was hot, quick, and the place was packed.
🍽️ Evening at the Pub: By 5:30pm, I met up with Emma and Lisa at the pub where they were staying. The Tractor and Cider Festival was still in full swing outside, with the sounds of whistles and steam engines filling the air. Although I had hoped for a Sunday roast, it had sold out, so I settled for a steak and topped it off with a sticky toffee pudding.
💃 Night Out: At 8:30pm, we were joined by Jan and Gaby, just as the live music was starting. With wine flowing and the music pumping, we couldn’t resist getting up to dance. It was a fantastic night, and I finally turned in at 10pm, exhausted but thoroughly content.
What a weekend it’s been so far! Tomorrow, we tackle Durdle Door. But for now, I bid you goodnight. Thanks for following along.