'If you have a dog, you will most likely outlive it; to get a dog is to open yourself to profound joy and, prospectively, to equally profound sadness.' Marjorie Garber

Tuesday 5 July 2011

Didn't We Have a Lovely Day...

Copyright: Visit Dunster
Sunday was such a beautiful day. We went to Dunster and Exmoor.  
Dunster is one of my favourite places. For those of you who aren't familliar with the West of England, or Somerset in particular, Dunster is known as the 'Gateway to Exmoor'. It isn't far from Minehead, a 'seaside' town on the Bristol Channel and the starting point for the South West Coast Path. Dunster is an ancient village with a grand Castle and it's own little stretch of beach on the channel. 
Gallox Bridge
The village as we know it now really is a 'Chocolate Box' village with most of the buildings dating from Medieval times. It isn't a sleepy village though, as there are always lots of activities and events. I'm considering holding my half-century celebrations there next year, if I can persuade my friends to come along. Anyway, if you ever find yourself in this part of England, then a visit to Dunster and Exmoor is a must.
 


Exmoor is a National Park and the setting for 'Lorna Doone'. It is a beautiful expanse of heathered moorland reaching down to the sea - far less bleak than Dartmoor. 


We were lucky enough to come across some Exmoor ponies and foals grazing - just wonderful!





We also spotted an adder, but it was too fast for us and we couldn't get a picture before it disappeared into the hedgrow. 

The gorgeous soft magenta foxglove were in full bloom, holding their majestic bellheads high on the horizon. If only I could get the foxgloves in my garden to flourish like these.


When I visit Exmoor it just fills me with the joy of life. I leave there refreshed and amazed at how beautiful the world can be. It really is one of the most uplifting places, especially when the sun is shining!

4 comments:

  1. I don't know that part of England at all but it does look so lovely.

    Maybe one day - although I'd also like to visit the Lake District...and Cornwall.

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  2. I've always wanted to go to Exmoor - haven't quite made it yet - You've just reinforced my will to get there.

    Rory

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  3. Only spent a little time there but it is gorgeous. I live near the new forest so get to see the ponies free roaming there.

    Thanks for popping by & leaving a comment. How strange that your brother should fing four hens ! I have an empty hen house !

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  4. seeing your post just proves to me that I must return to Dunster again soon. So lovely, memories flood back. Love Helen, Darcy and Bingley xxx

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