Friday 9 September 2022

I have arrived

Well so much for writing on the plane! I was totally exhausted by the time I sat in that seat - physically and emotionally. Leaving is never easy, leaving those precious grandies after spending almost 9 years nearby is the hardest. Those final things to get organised took more time than I thought they would - experience tells me they always do, optimism has me believing it will be different this time. Nope. 

Long story short, I'm here! Where exactly? Farnborough in Hampshire. It's great to have a base I can come and go from, revisit places I love, and explore those places only the locals know. Like the local pub where everyone knows your name, Windsor and Wells, and some hidden gems like Nunney, Waverley Abbey and Portishead. And here I was thinking it's just a band I've always enjoyed. It's also a gorgeous spot to wander along the waterfront and canal and enjoy the best Italian food at Aqua. 

I've always been fascinated with the tidal range in different parts of the world. Portishead has the second largest range in the world according to one of the information boards, up to15 metres at high tide. Having watched the tide sweep in at Mont Saint Michel, I can imagine how fierce the tide is at Portishead. 

Next stop was the Clifton suspension bridge, an amazing feat of engineering by Brunel bridging the Avon Gorge. Clifton is a treat of a place, high on a hill with views across the countryside and the Bristol Channel. Terraced houses tumbling down steep streets. The ancient history of the area is visible  as I stood within the iron age Clifton Camp hillfort. Descending into the caves in the hillside was a treat with minerals colouring the rocks to the side. It was a squeeze even for me but the view from the platform over the gorge was worth the steps.  

The photos are only phone ones. My big camera will get and outing soon. And more stories will follow. 

Portishead Marina


Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge from Clifton Camp



1 comment:

Anonymous said...

All my very best wishes and love as you embark on your new adventure Julie💞