12th 14th February 2010 Bideford , (photo link) Just returned from a stunning weekend on the north devon coast, based in Bideford. I was guiding with Andrew "kinglsey" Wilkinson whose distant ancestors were discovered to have originated in the area!!! Friday saw an enormous carvery devoured before the head waiter, transforemed into a rock DJ, complete with disco ball and flashing light!!!
Thankfully we were there for the walking and it was a freezing cold but clear morning that dawned. Our coach dropped the easy walkers at horns cross for a day which highlighted a freezing cold lunch spot, complete with northerly cold winds, and a t shop that was shut!!! The route was beautiful though and the ancient woodlands provided a welcome shelter and the views across the sea were wonderful, they even spotted seals, although I think this may have been post beer!!
The harder walkers dared the coach driver to make it to Hartland Quay and Dave did not let us down, thankfully his bus was not a toyota as he negotiated the narrow cliff road to the start. A cutting wind ensured a brisk pace as we headed out to the lighthouse and delightful sheltered coffee spot. Then it was onwards into the teeth of the gale but the panoramic views of lundy kept us moving!!! Or was it the call of the beer in Clovely. Anyway we soildered onwards even as the vultures began to circle to bring everyone safely home to the pub!!!
Saturday night was a bit of a worry as only three men braved the valentines run with 27 hungry but attractive ladies, their aim was crabby dicks.... sometimes you dont need say any more !!!!
Sunday then dawned and spring arrived, clear blue skies, unbroken sunshine and another amazing days walking by the sea!!! Fish and chips, strolls along the beach accompanied by the sound of the surf made for a perfect end to the weekend.
Thank you all for your enjoyable company, a most relaxing and entertaining weekend, hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did
Thankfully we were there for the walking and it was a freezing cold but clear morning that dawned. Our coach dropped the easy walkers at horns cross for a day which highlighted a freezing cold lunch spot, complete with northerly cold winds, and a t shop that was shut!!! The route was beautiful though and the ancient woodlands provided a welcome shelter and the views across the sea were wonderful, they even spotted seals, although I think this may have been post beer!!
The harder walkers dared the coach driver to make it to Hartland Quay and Dave did not let us down, thankfully his bus was not a toyota as he negotiated the narrow cliff road to the start. A cutting wind ensured a brisk pace as we headed out to the lighthouse and delightful sheltered coffee spot. Then it was onwards into the teeth of the gale but the panoramic views of lundy kept us moving!!! Or was it the call of the beer in Clovely. Anyway we soildered onwards even as the vultures began to circle to bring everyone safely home to the pub!!!
Saturday night was a bit of a worry as only three men braved the valentines run with 27 hungry but attractive ladies, their aim was crabby dicks.... sometimes you dont need say any more !!!!
Sunday then dawned and spring arrived, clear blue skies, unbroken sunshine and another amazing days walking by the sea!!! Fish and chips, strolls along the beach accompanied by the sound of the surf made for a perfect end to the weekend.
Thank you all for your enjoyable company, a most relaxing and entertaining weekend, hope you all enjoyed it as much as we did