Walking at Tinkers Cross, Fordingbridge then Forde Inn

                                                on 16th June 2026

Fifteen of us met at Forde Inn this afternoon just before 14.00, then headed out to explore the country footpaths. The weather was in our favour, not too hot and very pleasant.

We stopped after forty minutes and some chose to return to the cafe whilst others headed off on a longer walk  ensuring we were back for 15.00 for a well earned cuppa. It was a very quiet walk, unsure if we actually met anyone whilst we explored, for some, a new area.

A huge thank you to the staff at Forde Inn who looked after us so well. We had a choice of some delicious cake, coffee and tea to round off a very pleasant afternoon. The rain did arrive but not until all of us were very close to home....won't need to water our gardens tonight either.

                                 Walking at Friars Cliff on Tuesday 2nd June 2026

When we met at Avon Run Road Car Park around 13.50, the sun was shining and it looked like a pleasant walk ahead. However, by the time we reached the Beach Hut Cafe, the rain had arrived. We waited a little while then split into two groups; one group decided to stay at the cafe whilst the other, with waterproofs, decided to walk a bit further. The rain was intermittent but we managed to walk to Steamer Point Nature Reserve and back without getting too wet. Sheltering under the trees and beach hut canopies assisted us along our way.

As usual, delicious cake and coffee/tea at the Beach Hut put a smile on everyone's face. A huge thank you to the staff at the cafe who were busy, as many like us, were sheltering from the rain when it became much heavier.

                      

                       

                                     Walking at Avon Heath Country Park on

                                                  Tuesday 19th May 2026

We could not believe our luck on Tuesday when we met for our walk at Avon Heath Country Park. The rain had stopped so we decided to risk it, all of us wearing waterproofs just in case, though. We headed out on the Activity Trail walking for one hour and the rain didn't appear. The earlier rain had obviously deterred others as we didn't meet many people on our way. For a few of us, this was a first visit to Avon Heath and we were very impressed. Lots of people said they are already planning a return trip. Lots of lovely walks available and for the young at heart, a great playpark too. None of us could quite believe  we kept dry.

Nor could we believe the delicious choice of cakes and shortbread when we arrived at one of our PALs house to celebrate his birthday. Thank you ever so much for the wonderful invite, Jayne and the opportunity to sing Happy Birthday to Mike. Every one of us really appreciated your kindness and hospitality. Thank you.

The very happy Birthday Boy.

 Walking at Lady's Mile, Godshill on Tuesday 21st April 2026

History in the making;today for the first time, we had to pay to park at Godshill Inclosure. Our walk was a bit quieter but whether that was due to the introduction of car parking charges or not, remains to be seen.For a few of us, this was the first time they had walked Lady's Mile and they were delighted to have done so. The weather was fine, warm when the sun appeared, and we returned to the car park via the forest. It was indeed a beautiful spring day and perfect for walking.

After returning to the car park, we then headed off for coffee /tea and cake at The Pantry Barn on Breamore Estate. No one was disappointed by their choice; what a great selection of cakes including their gluten free options. Thank you once again to the lovely staff who accommodated us so well.