Woke to a wonderful view- we are going to miss this. Packed away for the last time and set off on more narrow paths and steep climbs. We past St Aldhelms Chapel with its 1665 and 1609 graffiti scratched in the stone pillars. A few old quarries in the area and plenty of people out walking (often we don't see anyone). These last sections have been a pleasant surprise - just as picturesque and dramatic as all the others. Stopped at Durlston Castle for a cream tea before walking into Swanage. Went into the tourist info to get some accommodation in Studland for our last night. Booked into the pub and carried on for another couple of hours via The Old Harry Rock formation and into the lovely village of Studland. Into the Brankes Arms Inn fairly exhausted and of course thirsty! Dropped the bags in the room before a lot of celebratory pints of the best Ales we have had,brewed on site, Fossil Fuel. Followed by an evening meal. Tonight's certainly blown the budget - cheers Tracy & Roger.
Good morning. Our last night under canvas
Morning hair brush
Tough-450 steep steps on this one!
Think this may be the last corner!
Durlston Castle
Swanage Beach
Old Harry's Rock
Studland. The Brankes Arms Inn
Our last night on the path
View from b&b in Studland
Yes! We have walked 630miles/1017kms
At the finish
South Haven (Shell Bay) SWCP sculpture
Our friend Val made us a cake!!!! Unreal!
Fri
Well this is it! Can't believe it will be the last day on the path. Another Full English breakfast before the last 3 miles along the beach of Studland Bay. So glad we have had great weather the last few days to finish on a high. Mixed thoughts as we reached the end commemorative marker. A big hug and a few tears. Our friend Val was ill at home so couldn't be there to meet us but husband Malcolm came along just as we had finished. He gave us an Aussie flag/hooter/cap/badge and certificate (from The South West Coast Path Association) and of cause took the final photo of us.
Conclusion:
Hard to believe that we have done this now and that it is all over. 636 miles/1020kms
Climbed 115,000 feet almost 4 times the height of Mt Everest! 68 days of walking 49 in the tent. Average cost £67/$143 per day (mainly on food and drink that we would have to buy anyway).
We have met some great people along the way to swap stories with and have shared the experience with some wonderful family and friends. It was harder than we expected but the challenge has been incredible. Everyday was a new experience with something new around every corner. Even the steep hills became addictive! Both of us feel very lucky that we have been able to do this together and in one hit, as we have realised now not many people are able to. Now it's time to get back to Australia, get some money together, and work out our next challenge / adventure. This walking is addictive-missing it already!
Jo & David
👣👣👣
Walked along the beach from Studland to South Haven finish point
Val had also organised an official certificate / badge and cap from The South West Coast Path Association- so thoughtful.
