St Catherine's Hill, Christchurch (U.K.)

Today was a revelation. Looked like a good day for walking (18/19C° and a cool breeze). Had planned to go to Poole Park/Quay, but had second thoughts about whether it would be crowded.

So instead I had the bright idea to try St Catherine's Hill. Very occasionally a local has mentioned it. Googled and read it's 'always quiet'. So the perfect place for a bank holiday weekend.

Very little traffic on the roads. Not surprising after yesterday's rain. Only 15 minute drive, but then ended up driving along a winding lane full of pot-holes, past characterful homes and fields with horses.

I couldn't see anywhere to access the Hill, and wasn't going to risk very narrow paths that could be full of mud. So turned back to the tiny car park at the bottom of the lane.

We walked for two hours up and down some fairly steep paths, mainly through attractive woodland, glades of heather and shrubs. Went up to a viewpoint with spectacular wide views over to Christchurch Priory, and the Isle of Wight Needles. Went slightly off course on the return, but found our way in the end. This is definitely on our list of favourites now.

Popped into nearby Dan Tanners farm in Sopley. It's a treasure. Bought their own-grown marrow, plums and picked my own dahlia.

Then home, dinner and just made an easy recipe for a vegan oats, apple, banana, walnut slice - no sugar (if you have a sweet tooth you can sprinkle with icing sugar?). Has come out 10/10. Recommend https://youtu.be/ECQjJRD8Bpk?si=Meo91LZxJudG14fg
(There are 3 recipes on this).

Good Night. Definitely ready for bed now.