An intrepid group of us celebrated the 50th anniversary of the South West Coast path Association in our own way, on the first weekend of the SWCPA’s organised relay. On a rather chilly morning, we braved upstairs seats on the Exmo coastal bus from Porlock to Lynmouth in order to walk back – amazing to be on a double decker bus going up Porlock Hill. It hardly seemed possible, but we made it.
The 14-mile walk back to Porlock starts with the rather brutal climb back up Countisbury Hill to Foreland Point, which would have given us spectacular views if it hadn’t been for the early fog and low cloud! As the cloud lifted the walk continued with a delightful mix of sea views and spring woodland – fresh green leaves just bursting through, though the devastation wrought by several years of winter storms showed in the number of uprooted trees sprawled down steep valley sides. There were also a number of landslips along the way – a reminder of the work the SWCPA does to keep the paths open and safe to walk.
The sun shone for our picnic lunch and we continued past Sir Robert’s Chair and the Sisters Fountain, eventually reaching the charming tiny Culbone Church nestling in the woods. By the time we reached Porlock Weir, we were very tired indeed, saved only by the wonderful friendly service at the new Harbour House Coffee shop. Although it was only a few minutes to closing time at 5.00 and they were clearing up, they cheerfully welcomed us and served much needed hot drinks in comfy surroundings. Suitably fortified, we enjoyed the more gentle woodland walk back to Porlock – appreciating the fantastic array of Rhododendrons and Azaleas in over the fence in Greencombe gardens.
Somerset Walking Club 