Weekend Break | TRAVEL
I'm delighted with my plans for a weekend walking trip on Dorset's South West Coast Path. However, Seán, my partner, looks aghast at the idea of exercise but he agrees as long as we stop off at our friend's recommendation of The Turfcutter's Arms in the New Forest's East Boldre on the way.
I forgive him for the fact it's not in Dorset and nowhere near our destination as it offers up unexpected delights, from donkeys queuing up outside the post office to Hatchet's Pond on its outskirts, with its lapwings, and rare multicoloured stonewort.
The coastal path at Highcliffe provides the perfect picnic spot, with views of the iconic Isle of Wight Needles. Afterwards, we wander along the cliffside path, among bees and butterflies as they feast on purple teasel heads. The golden sand below arcs to Christchurch Harbour.
If I see a signpost, I have to follow it, so we zigzag up the verdant cliff to stucco-bayed Highcliffe Castle with its romantic parterre. Capability Brown drained the cliff when creating the gardens. However, the sea sent half of those gardens careering down
