Having stayed in Bideford last night, we needed to get back to Instow to resume the coastal walk to Westward Ho.  This involved getting the bus from Bideford to Instow and walking back through Bideford (3 miles) on the way to Westward Ho – we could so easily have cheated, after all who would know!?  But of course we did it by the book – honest Joes or ‘mugs!?’ Relatively flat start, more Tarka trail (see pic below) and then it got more scenically interesting as we left Bideford. 

An 11 mile walk today took us through a variety of terrain and scenic experiences – Woodland Hills, through pretty seaside towns and villages, sand dunes, exposed golf courses, sand and pebble beaches – something for everyone!  We even had an ice-cream stop and a lunch stop today!  

On the approach to Westward Ho we were so nearly blown off our feet – rain and gail force winds – it was kite surfer’s paradise but we were two drenched rats when we dribbled into the town.  Somehow the name of the town kept me going – such a cheery tally ho sort of word.  Didn’t feel the town lived up to its name though, not that we hung around very long.  Caught the bus back to Bideford where we’re staying for a second night.  Will be heading back to Westward Ho tomorrow where we’ll pick up the path to Clovelly – back on the ‘challenging’ routes – help!!

As today’s walk was to be a flat walk, we made the decision to have a day off walking boots – went for the lighter approach of trainers.  

Our airbnb hosts in Braunton were Sarah and Tommy, a lovely young couple and they had provided a beautiful ensuite room – we tucked into muesli, croissant and nutella, toast and jam before heading out.  Walked back into the village to pick up the coastal path, we set a fair pace!  Averaged 17.5 minutes a mile over the day, not bad for a couple of old’ uns!!  A pleasant stroll along the Tarka Trail, a disused railway line, named after Tarka the Otter.  Passed a large Marine base as well as a troop of young weary looking marines being herded up the Trail, rucksacks on back – said hello and smiled at each and every one – felt so sorry for them!! The walk took us via Branstaple and continued on and on …. the long ‘unwinding’ road!  We were joined at parts by swooping swallows, so beautiful to watch these elegant birds.  Stopped for lunch at a cafe in Fremington – a converted railway station.  Delicious baguettes and lashings of tea!!

A mile or so further on we came across a young lad selling tea and cakes from a trike stall – had another cuppa and a chat – one of the lovely things about this trip is the people we are meeting.  Although rain had been forecast we mostly walked in dry and sometimes sunny weather.  Now we are in our room in Bideford, the heavens have opened.  Staying tonight in Sue’s family home – beautiful room and a very welcoming host.  

Set off nice and early – the walk started on the two miles of Woolacombe’s golden sands (voted Best Beach in 2015 and 2016) then we headed gently up the cliff – such stunning scenery along the way – along through Croyde and Staunton Sands – so longed to be in there surfing the waves.  

Then the path took us inland, avoiding sand dunes and leading us up the estuary to Braunton.  This involved more woodland walking which provided shade on what was the hottest day so far, crossing a golf course and up some very very long dusty paths.  

Had some followers along the way!!

Today has been the easiest day so far – all 15 miles of it …. put it this way, I would do it again whereas I will NEVER walk between Minehead and Combe Martin again!!  😊