There are gale-force winds predicted for Friday, so I’ve delayed my return to Scotland for a shorter walk along the 84-mile Norfolk Coast Path. Ness Point in Lowestoft is the most easterly point in the UK, where the Euroscope displays the bearings and distances to various places. Not the most scenic spot, tucked behind an industrial area and a huge wind turbine.
The narrow promenade at Corton village is closed, although the path looks fine as the wind is gentle and the tide turning.
Turning the corner, I’ve been fooled, with foaming waves breaking over the rusting handrail at regular intervals. I try to time the gaps, but end up with wet feet — due payment for ignoring the warning sign.
The boulder clay of Corton Cliffs is slowly slipping down into the sea despite extensive wooden revetments.
There are steps leading down to the narrow strip of sand, although the tide is still washing up against stacked boulders. A man carries his small dog through the shallow water. This section would be impossible at high tide, but I manage to scramble over the rocks and walk close to the revetments, enjoying the breaking waves. What will this be like on Friday when the gales hit?
The urban miles round Great Yarmouth are less enjoyable, especially in the rain. I wondered how I’d feel after the Arctic Circle Trail. It will take time to adjust to the rhythms of coastal walking. A cheerful shelter always helps.
I’m reminded that built-up areas do have their vibrant displays, including this mural by Liam Ashley Clark, complete with a pirate skeleton.
It’s good to get back out into the dunes, despite the gloomy skies and light rain.
The Grange campsite is fine enough, although the American-themed fast food joint next door is less impressive. When I leave, the sky is on fire. I push through the dense trees surrounding the campsite to take a picture, which is a big mistake as my soft shell top snags on a branch and tears. It matches my backpack now, crudely repaired with black gaffa tape — very stylish. I’m going to be covered in the stuff by the time I finish!
Walk distance: 16 miles.
Total distance: 2,155 miles.
Good to see those impressive skies in Norfolk. I’ve not long returned from a 5 day cycle trip in Norfolk, which I was not familiar with, and I was mightily impressed. Enjoy!
They are huge skies. We may have travelled the same paths. Where did you cycle?
Inland in part (the Broads, Blickling Hall etc) and along the North Coast – Cromer, Blakeney etc.
Horsey Windpump was a good spot. Also impressed by Norwich City which I visited (my base was a Premier Inn on the East side of Norwich.
I really liked Norfolk and will doubtless visit again.
You will enjoy your further walks on the Norfolk coast – plenty of seals frolicking in the waves.
Horsey Windpump looks pretty. I missed that on the horizon. Probably walking along the beach. Oh yes, I enjoyed the seals.
Wonderful comentary, poetic
Thanks Sarah.
I prefer the North Norfolk coast! Except when there’s any icy wind blowing off the North Sea and I’d rather be in a cosy cafe.
I suspect there may be certain rock formations on the North coast that interest you. 🙂
Yes , I’m afraid that I didn’t find that walk along the River Yare at Great Yarmouth very inspiring too. Great pics though. Cheers, Mike
Thanks Mike. It was tough after being in all that open space in Greenland. I was fine the next day though.
Beautiful rainbow and sunset.