Travelling, but not far

The Gorse Fox and Silver Vixen are off travelling again. Only for a few days, but after all, she has a Birthday to celebrate.

We loaded the car and set off mid-morning. Google said the journey would take us 3 hours and 11 minutes, but we were in no hurry. We pottered westbound in the mid morning traffic. The Gorse Fox marvelled at the ease with which the adaptive cruise control dealt with the journey. Indeed, he drove from Chichester to the outskirts of Bournemouth without touching the brake or accelerator - just reading the road and adjusting the speed to match the speed limits. By Bournemouth we had averaged of 50mpg. Outstanding!

We stopped a The Crown Inn at Bridport to break the journey. It’s just over 100 miles from home and it was time for a comfort break, a coffee, and a snack. It turned out to be a super little find. The coffee was good and their sausage and onion baguette was extremely tasty.

Back on the road, the last part of the journey took about 40 minutes. In all it had taken just a smidgeon over 3 hours and we had averaged 48mpg. The car had been quiet, roomy, refined, very comfortable, and economical. What more could you want?

We checked in to the imposing Victorian pile that is “Victoria Hotel”. It is like something out of a film set and, at any moment, you expect Miss Marple to wander by with her knitting in one hand and bottle of gin in the other. It is very special.

Our stateroom is rather plush with views out over the bay. It certainly looks as if it will be very comfortable. We unpacked and made ourselves comfortable before heading out for a walk and chance to have a look at the town itself.

As we left a coach pulled up. It was the first time the Gorse Fox had seen Perry Mortem Tours for many years, but the doors opened and and the chronologically-challenged spilled out to make their way to reception.

We headed down the drive and walked along the promenade towards the town centre. There was a brisk wind and the waves were really stirring up the beach. The water was stained red from the underlying red sandstone. It was really quite exhilarating. We wandered round the town and the Gorse Fox stopped in Boots to get a knee brace. His knee is not getting any better and today feels decidedly troublesome. As we headed back, the sun broke through the clouds to west. It was the perfect end to nice brisk walk.

Back at the hotel we settled down in the lounge for afternoon tea and now we are back in our room having a quiet hour or so before dressing for dinner this evening.