A beautiful September week, days spent on the beach, we even swam in the sea – cold but somehow perfect.  Drinks on the beach and Scabble too.

Did things we’ve not done before, a RIB boat ride along the coast (Lyme Bay RIB Charter) was definitely worth it.

We completed the West Dorset Three Peaks – Thorncombe, Golden Cap and Colmer’s Hill finishing at Symonsbury Estate.  19km’s taking in wonderful views, steep climbs, discovering the wonders if slightly creepy ‘holloway’ of Hell Lane. A long walk but worth it for the views.

One of the strange sites during lockdown has been the six or so cruise liners moored up in Weymouth Bay.  From the Jurassic Coast Road beyond Abbortsbury you can see them in the distance.  Weymouth Bay is a naturally sheltered bay, east facing protected from the westerly Atlantic winds, has been home to half a dozen or so empty floating hotels since April. A new tourist attraction!

On this break we didn’t eat out as much as normal and enjoyed meals cooked ourselves. However we did have breakfast a couple of times at Rise.  Make sure you get a window table overlooking the water and I would highly recommend The Aussie! We ate out at the Club House in West Bexington.  Part of the Hive group we had high expectations for a special meal watching the sun go down.  

We love Bridport especially on market day when everyone comes out, we did find the streets a little crowded, partly because the weather was so good and we did wear our face masks as we walked around.  However, the market was as friendly as ever.

We enjoyed a mystery drive from Bridport, taking in Mangerton Mill where there is an art studio, antiques and tea room.  On to Powerstock, and the spectacular Eggerton Hill with its amazing views.  Then on to Hardy’s Monument where we picnicked overlooking Weymouth Bay and Chesil Beach before driving back to Abbortsbury via the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang road!