April 29th
Two things made our stay at this car park memorable. The first was the Barn Owl patrolling the field opposite. Not a great photo of it as the sun was going down, and operator error meant I had the camera on the wrong setting!
And second, the sunset itself. Only downside, it disappeared over the land instead of the sea.
This was a wonderful place to spend the night. The sound of crashing waves as the tide turned was the only thing that did wake me briefly. A lazy morning was spent, although I did finally get round to sweeping the carpet! Alum Bay was the destination today, to see the Needles. I took this excerpt from Isle of Wight.com
The Needles are one of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic sights. These three white chalk stacks leading up to the Needles Lighthouse are the first thing that many people think of when they hear to words ‘Isle of Wight’. The Needles are more than just a beautiful sight. There’s plenty to do here, from the world-famous Needles Rocks to the Needles Old Battery and much more. Discover the outstanding landmarks and places of natural beauty that makes The Needles what they are today, well known for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning coastal views.
Driving through Freshwater more flooding was seen. This time the entrance, as well as part of the car park, were underwater.
It's a fair old walk, mostly uphill, and can be walked either on the road or cliff path. On the notice board at the start of the climb, there was mention of a café, toilets and a chance to wander around the Old Battery. It stated above the opening times that it was open from March to November. Not that the Battery interested me, that's more Ian's department, but the thought of a welcome drink after the climb was more than agreeable.
It was to the Battery and café we made for as the first stop, down the road instead of continuing up that track. but oh no.... our luck was a bad as ever because as we got nearer, we could see it was closed. And even more upsetting was the café looked to be shut too. It could be seen through the very large iron gates which had been secured by a bloody great padlock! There didn't appear to be any way around, so the hope of a cup of tea were dashed.
The road led upwards, so we followed to where a sign pointed us in the direction of the viewing point. The views were pretty impressive, we could see the mainland, so close, yet so far.
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| More erosion meant the steps leading down to the beach were closed. The only way down was by chairlift, we debated and then decided against. |
Up steps, down steps a path was followed, more steps down and because no sign of this view point could be seen, Ian was sent offered to go down a check what was at the bottom.
With a thumbs up I descended and sure enough, there stood the Needles
Now for the climb back up. Reached the top knowing a descent was necessary, and as always this was what both of us dreaded most. It's always the walk back down that's a problem. Those suffering with bad knees know all about that! Occasionally I looked up from studying the ground for trip hazards, and took a photo of the cliff with its many colours of sandstone.
Back at MB, a spot of lunch was had before leaving for Yarmouth. The ferry booking for our return to the mainland was made before we had really thought about it. We should have returned the way we came, Fishbourne to Portsmouth, we hadn't planned on returning to Portsmouth but decided to see the Tudor Mary Rose, HMS Victory and Warrior. A drive back when we arrive at Lymington will now have to be done. Anyway, I'm getting ahead of myself because we stopped for a look at Yarmouth Castle This was the last fortification built during a national programme of coastal defence that Henry V111 had begun in 1539. This was another English Heritage property, cost £6.50 for seniors, and well worth a visit if in the area.
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| Dads Army. Looks the part, don't you think. |
The ferry tomorrow is at 10 am so we looked for somewhere to stop tonight. An app Ian had showed a great place nearby called Victoria Fort. Wow, right by the sea front, what a lovely place to stay.
We got nicely set up, and went for a walk. Ever skimmed stones? Ian showed how it was done.
Got back and started to prepare dinner. Ian spied a notice in the distance, and went to investigate. He returned with bad news. Yes, you could park for 24 hours, but noone was allowed to stay in the vehicle overnight. Right, where to go now. Another look at the app and a place was found at The Mount. It is right next to the shore, but the bays were a tad short for MB. Still, we found one where we hoped we wouldn't get hemmed in and as it was now 6 pm and the required time to purchase a ticket so you could stay until 10 am, £2 was put into the machine and the ticket taken.
Early start tomorrow, we have to leave this spot before the parking attendant appears. Apparently, another motorhomer was fined for not being within the bay lines and he was issued the fine after 9 am. Best not oversleep then.
And wildlife
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| Common Linnet I think |
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| Mistle Thrush |
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