Thursday 8th October 2020

We set off on Thursday afternoon – I was ready on time with my bags packed …. Steve had literally done everything else, as usual !! I really should start taking an interest in the planning and logistics – but then we all know that Steve loves a project! And so our next walking adventure had begun.

We’re staying in Canterbury to house-sit two very fluffy black cats, Bella and Zoe. They’re indoor cats and are exceptionally timid …. and there’s a definite feline aroma around the house! But it’s a cosy terraced house, just a short walk from the cathedral and lots of interesting shops, cafes, bars and restaurants…. and it’s free!

Friday 9th October 2020. Day 1 of walking

Today we walked from Margate to Ramsgate – 8 miles of easy and flat terrain with scenic views, pretty much sticking to the coastline. We saw plenty of swimmers, some in the sea, some in the lidos …. whichever it was, still think they’re bonkers! Of course there are white cliffs a plenty – absolutely love them. I’m always envious of beachside properties but North Foreshore is in a league of its own – an eclectic mix of period properties and modern architect designed – all of them jaw droppingly stunning.

We stopped for coffee in pretty Broadstairs – it felt like about 20 degrees as we sat outdoors soaking up the autumn sun. Finished off the walk just in a T shirt – well, and trousers (and shorts in Steve’s case, always shorts). Fell in love with Broadstairs, pretty beach and town, feel sure we’ll be back.

Saturday 10th October. Day 2 of walking

A long walk today, Ramsgate to Deal – 14 miles. Alice had joined us last night for a few days, which meant she got roped in to some ‘rambling with her parents!’ To hit her with 14 miles was a bit mean and to be honest this wasn’t the most interesting coastal walk as it took us inland a fair bit, Alice never minds though, she just goes with the flow … and is certainly fitter than me.

There were some clifftop climbs to start off, with some incredible views (Alice got to see the White Cliffs at last) followed by woodland paths. Unfortunately the coastal path then took us for a few miles along busy roads and industrial estates – not so glamorous – leading us into the very pretty historic town of Sandwich. Temporary dilemma on finding the town bridge closed, hence sealing off our path. While Steve busied himself looking for ways to get through the construction barriers, Alice and I spotted a notice about a transit service to ferry us into the town – relief! The bus appeared and took us a fair old distance to get into the town centre … it was so good to have a sit down.

We alighted the bus in Sandwich, it was lunchtime, so there was only one thing for it – ‘a sandwich in Sandwich.’ We chose an attractive looking hostelry, got ourselves settled in only to find they didn’t do sandwiches! So, jacket potato it was.

The next part of the walk was across endless fields and past golf courses until we finally found ourselves back to sea views and some promenade walking. The day had turned chilly so we were relieved and weary when we finally got back to the car. We would sleep well tonight …. a quiet night in with fish and chips, cups of tea and an early to bed.

Back for more tomorrow 😎