Lynmouth to Combe Martin 13.5

A much earlier start today setting off just after 9.00 am. It was too early for the lift to be running but of course we wouldn't have used it anyway.....honest! Our lovely B&B owner offered us a lift up the hill but we turned that down as well and set off up the Westerway, the zig-zag path to Linton.

 It didn't take too long to reach the top and then on to the spectacular Valley of the Rocks where we were greeted by the wild goats that live here. They obviously knew where the warmest spots were on the tarmac path and moved over reluctantly to let us pass.

Castle Rock

Then on to Lee Abbey where we saw a road sign that you don't see too often.

 Of course we had to try the tea room while we were passing and it lived up to expectations.

Woody Bay

This is one of two red deer seen today dining in people's gardens.

Hollow Brook Combe waterfall

 The most spectacular part of the day was the Heddon Valley where we bumped into a party of park rangers having a day out. It was steep going down and very steep climbing back up the other side.

Great Hangman

The highest point on the SWCP, Great Hangman. Margaret also did an 'A' plus up to the top of Little Hangman before we descended to Combe Martin for a meal at the pub before finding our very quirky B&B for the night.

Little Hangman

Combe Martin

Fontenay B&B

Its hard to describe this B&B but I'll give it a go. The owner was lovely and very into re-cycling and organic food. The house was absolutely stuffed with old things that had been turned into craft items or just piled up in every room and even under the beds. There was so much it was hard to see a surface not covered by something. It wasn't en suite but we had use of the family bathroom and shower. There was a very large wall clock in our room that had a loud tick but it had been a tiring day so it didn't bother us too much. The breakfast was lovely with home made elderflower juice, home baked bread and fresh eggs from their own hens on her partner's small holding. Even the garden was full of 'stuff', old bicycles and a row of walking boots in every size. We were made to feel very welcome but it wasn't a particularly restful place to stay.
This day's walking was perhaps the most diverse and interesting day.