In and around Poole

After a fortifying breakfast, it was necessary for another bracing walk along the busy quay, still very windy ( nothing to do with the breakfast)! Sun seekers at home (TL). Twin Sails road bridge open (TR). We then took our seats on the Brownsea Island Ferry for a mini cruise round the islands (leaving Poole middle) and the Skipper gave us a very interesting commentary. The rain started as we were leaving Poole and really threw it down just as the boat docked at Brownsea for people to visit the Island (bl). We wanted to go explore the NT Island in the hope of seeing the Red Squirrels etc, but not in that weather. Once the ferry got under way again though the rain stopped, the sun came out but the wind remained. Anyhow we enjoyed the rest of the cruise.

Back on dry-ish land we had lunch outside The Lord Nelson Pub in the sun. The Mudeford Crabs Band were just starting their gig there so we stayed a wee while (young Starling wrestling with chip BR). We then spent some time exploring the inner regions of Poole and came upon Scaplen's Court which is a beautifully renovated Medieval house and Herb Courtyard Garden - really lovely. More exploring ending with two real Italian ice creams whilst doing some more people watching.

A lovely day and the thought of a light dinner and a reasonably early night seemed favourable until that was blown out of the window by us getting involved with a 'bad lot' in the dining room and later on in the bar!!!! .....
The bad lot were a husband and wife from Cornwall, both great characters and we had a great evening - very late to bed though!!