Jule's Hikoi: Dorset II

The return home. Wending our way from the coast along the coast exploring. The sea was still wild, the wind fiercely cold as we parked above Durdle Door admiring the amazing view. Getting out of the car was another matter, pushing the door against a gale. Coats and hats on down we went to see this iconic part of the coast. Icy puddles along the way.

Durdle Door is a UNESCO natural World Heritage site. The magnificent natural limestone arch was formed when the power of the waves eroded the rock and forged a hole through the middle. The name Durdle is derived from an old English word ‘thirl’, which means to pierce, bore or drill. Although it was too windy and cold to stay long, the sun came out and I got some great pics. The car and its heated seats were a welcome sight after a steep climb.

We back tracked along the coast to Weymouth, a lovely and popular sea side town, then out along the peninsular to Bill of Portland. The impressive Portland Bill lighthouse has been guiding ships in the hazardous English Channel waters for over 100 years. The day we were there it was clear just how treacherous the local waters are with large cross waves breaking onto the rocks and drenching anyone who got too close. I was a bit afraid of being bowled over by the wind, it was that strong, so I didn't go too near the waters edge. Exciting wander along the pathways.

I was very ready for something to eat and getting hangry so it was onwards to Poole. Parking is interesting here. Different companies have control of the parks and while some parking can be paid through apps, being in the wrong company park means lots of swearing and relocating! We finally found a park near the town centre and wandered down to the harbor. The town was like many I've been to here; quiet, lots of empty shops and in need of some TLC.

I've been hanging out for some fresh, locally caught fish. The King Charles Inn obliged with the yummiest seafood chowder. An appropriate name for the times too. The King Charles Inn is one one the oldest pubs in Poole. It became a public house around 1770 and the building dates back to around 1550. It's also listed as haunted. Legend has it a landlady who had thought her lover sailor had died at sea, hung herself from the old beams upstairs only to be found by her lover who then killed himself. There have apparently been some rather strange happenings in this pub over the years. Looking at the preserved yet original state of the place it's easy to believe it's haunted.

We got home just after sunset, planning the next adventure on the way. I'm heading back south in mid February so I don't have much time left this trip.