Woolacombe to Braunton 15

This was to be the longest walk in this section but not the most difficult fortunately. The day started cloudy but dry as we walked across the 2.5 miles of beach at Woolacombe.

Up on the cliff top Margaret found a lookout to climb to look for Lundy Island but I think she was looking the wrong way and it was too cloudy to see it today anyway.

Baggy Point

It was very windy at Baggy Point and we didn't get the extensive views promised in the guide book. The wind dropped a bit as we turned the corner and headed towards Croyde Bay.

Remains of a whale washed up on Croyde Beach

Croyde Bay

A treat

Worzel Gummidge in residence at the Sand Leigh cafe

 Croyde Bay is a popular spot for surfing but no time for that only time for a paddle.

We just missed a wedding taking place right next to the coast path.

 Further along the cliff top as far as Saunton Sands where there is a very large hotel that can be seen from miles away.

This was followed by a long walk through Braunton Burrows the largest sand dune system in England supporting over 400 species of wild flowers. Unfortunately there was a heavy drizzle so we didn't really see it at its best. There is also a Ministry of Defence firing range in this area but there were no red flags flying but we could hear firing nearby which was a bit disconcerting.

 By the time we reached the River Taw the rain had stopped and we had a good view of Appledore across the estuary. It would be two more days before we reached there on foot.

At last Braunton was in sight and not much further to Thistledown B&B , our home for the next three nights. We had a warm welcome and a lovely room with a sitting room and en suite shower room. Plenty of room to spread out and get organised for the rest of the walk. 

Our luggage was moved on daily by Luggage Transfers and they did a great job. It was always there when we arrived and they rang each B&B the evening before to say when they would pick up or deliver.