Gullane Sands

I apologise for relegating JoppaStrand to the extras on today’s blip! It was my intention to use the shot for today’s journal, but other shots muscled their way in.

We had a very enjoyable couple of hours on a mini blip meeting with JoppaStrand in Portabello, both in the Beachhut cafe and on a search for the house on Argyle Crescent where Susan’s mum and dad (Doreen and Ken) lived after they first got married in the early 1950s. We think we found the house, but can’t be certain.

The promenade was busy and very interesting with a brisk cold wind to hurry us on our way. It’s a fascinating place and I can see why JoppaStrand likes living in the area. The conversation was really interesting and it’s not surprising that we had lots of common ground. I hope we’re able to meet in less constrained circumstances in the not too distant future.

On JoppaStrand‘a recommendation we travelled to Aberlady Nature reserve between Portabello and North Berwick. It was an inspired recommendation. We parked overlooking the Firth at the estuary of Peffer Burn which empties into the Firth in a wide, flat and marshy bay. From the carpark we walked to Gullane Point through sandy dunes and across golf courses.

The best part of the walk was the return along Gullane Bay and Gullane Sands. Spectacular in every way with superb sands, rocks and pools and tremendous views towards Edinburgh and across the Firth to Fife. The light and the skies were magical as today’s blip of the Sands will confirm. As the tide was low we were able to see the wreckage of two midget submarines beached on the sands, apparently they were used as target practice by the RAF.

Lots of nature to see. The beaches were awash with shells and shell fragments, Susan collected some sea glass, we went rock pooling, fossilising, saw a stonechat and three roe deer.

I must finish by thanking all my blip followers who comment on my journal. I’ve been visiting journals on a daily basis since lockdown until today! I really appreciate your continued interest, concern and support. You’re all great!