Training on the Dorset coastal path

Today I headed out with fellow Ramblers to get in some walking miles before I start back on the Big Walk again in 5 weeks time. Our starting point this morning was Abbotsbury right next to the ancient Swannery. Although bright the weather was cold with a sharp northerly breeze. Heading out of the village and into the hills we soon came across Iron Age earthworks and a series of early burial mounds.

We stopped by a metal beacon that was erected to celebrate 400 years after the Spanish Amarda. A series of wonderful footpaths took us through an ancient woodland full of primroses and an old memorial chapel. Crossing field we saw lots of new born lambs prancing under the protective gaze of their mums. On our way back to Abbotsbury we climbed to the old ruin of St Catherine's chapel and then descended to the Swannery car park again just before the rain started. A great days walk and I head for Dartmoor in two days time on Good Friday.