We ran out of gas last night! It was only two weeks ago that we changed the last cylinder. Very strange that it had not lasted longer, but there again, some very cold nights meant the heating was fired up ever so often. So we need to find another supplier, and that has not been easy around here. All the numbers Ian phoned either has gone out of business or wasn't gas suppliers at all. When we leave here tomorrow, it's to Somerset we go so hoping to find a supplier on route.
Portland Bill with its lighthouse was what we wanted to see today. Two car parks side by side, one designated for cars and the other motorhomes and coaches. Nice to see that at least one attraction caters for the larger vehicle. Anyway, Ian tried to pay the charge on line, only wanted two hours, but payment was declined. The message, you must go up to the next tariff. Blimey, that meant paying nearly £7 for three hours. For car owners, the payment went up in hours, so why not motorhomes? Seems what I read about Dorset not welcoming motorhomes are true!
We left feeling very let down, said sod it, we won't be coming back to Portland again! Ian found a place on the outskirts of Weymouth, Bennetts Water Gardens, which looked inviting, especially on a day like today. For the first time since we left FS, no coats were worn. In fact, at 18 degrees, it was positively hot! Our faith was somewhat restored in motorhome parking at this place. Only a very small car park, the owner came out and allowed us to park right at the end where the only car we blocked was her own.
Several lakes and ponds full of water lily plants, but unfortunately only two open flowers were seen.
It didn't detract from the enjoyment of the place and I can imagine in a week or two, the colourful display of those lilies would be impressive.
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| Trying to get rid of the blanket weed, a never ending job. |
After a couple of hours just enjoying the tranquillity, and a trip to the café for coffee, we decided to go back to New Ground car park, Close by the Verne Prison was the Verne High Angle Battery and because of the rain yesterday, we gave it a miss. It was within walking distance from the car park, so walking shoes went on, sun hat and sunscreen (first dollop this year) and walked the quarter of a mile to the battery.
The history is highlighted above in blue but a short explanation,
The High Angle Battery is a derelict fort built in 1892 on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England. It is Grade II Listed. The battery is situated in the Verne area, close to the Verne Citadel (HM Prison The Verne), Fancy's Family Farm (on site of ex-Portland Rotor Radar Station) and Nicodemus Knob.
Having explored the tunnels, I nearly went flying when in the dark, I tripped over the rails (Ian had the torch but did he wait for me?) He soon returned full of remorse, I made sure he didn't stray far from that moment on.
Leaving the battery, our walk continued along scrub land and paths leading us toward the cliffs. No path could be seen going down to the sea, which actually pleased me no end. The thought of going down to the beach and then having to come back up filled me with dread. Even Ian agreed it would be foolish to try.
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| It might not look it, but Ian is standing at the edge of a very long drop! |
Today 8000 steps was shown on the Fitbit. First time since leaving FS, although I did leave the watch off for a few days because of a nasty insect bite to my wrist, so I may have walked just as far when in Portsmouth.
And wildlife today,
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