18th March - Christchurch and Poole

By this morning, I was still hobbling a bit, so decided it was time for a break. With another planned day off tomorrow in Poole I decided to make the most of it and see if I could get my boots reheeled as well. Fortunately, Tim at Christchurch Cobblers and Locksmiths was up for the challenge and promised to get them fixed by mid afternoon.

So, I planned a day of torpor! 

Having initially intended to walk out to Hengitsbury Head, I realised that'd have to wait for another time.  Instead, I went for a short stroll around The Quomps to look out over the confluence of the Rivers and Avon before they enter Christchurch Harbour. 

The fascination between people and swans must be mutual.

.....or does it always come down to cupboard love!!??

...." try ignoring him. He might go away"

The Priory is another beautiful combination of Norman and later Gothic styles. 

Then on to The Red House Museum - a converted Georgian workhouse 

with some interesting displays of social history and a good exhibition of artwork from the Bournemouth Art Society.

Having collected my re-heeled boots, 

and had a chat with Tim about the attractions of retirement, he very kindly offered me a lift to Poole as soon as he closed. So, after him taking a short detour to buy a Mothering Sunday card for his Mum and a prescription from Boots, we were on our way and in 20 mins he dropped me off at my hotel at Poole Quay. Ideal!....it's good to talk!!

On the way, I'd called Wendy and Ian. They've just completed on a new house at Alderholt near Fordingbridge and were in the middle of packing for moving- in on Tues but being of kindred spirits they were up for a beer

so we met at Inn in the Park at Branksome for supper. 

An enjoyable evening and great to catch up.