Mileaters Coastal Walk

The next stage of the coastal path had to be walked in the period when the Lulworth firing ranges were open to allow the stretch between Lulworth and Tyneham to be accessed. The date of Tuesday 30 July was chosen and a dozen walkers signed up for this very tough section and after weeks of dry sunny weather the  forecast of heavy rain, strong winds and possible lightning meant there was no option but to go to the reserve date of Thursday 1 August. Fortunately the weather was extremely good on this date but only 5 Mileaters were able to make the walk. Maybe it was the challenge of seriously difficult hills or maybe it was the thought of the cliff paths being rather frightening or perhaps it was the walk didn’t finish at a pub I suggest a combination of all three but in fairness this is the main holiday season so many were away.

The five set off from Lulworth having left a car in Tyneham and walked along Lulworth cove beach towards Fossil Forest where we had to scramble up a small cliff (using hands to steady ourselves) to reach the top where the photo was taken.

We walked briskly towards the main challenging assent at Arish Mell but managed to take in the stunning views. For those who know this part of the coast path it is renowned for sorting out ‘the men from the boys’ as the climb is exhausting. Lunch was taken after another gruelling climb but looking across Worbarrow Bay was truly memorable and certainly worth the effort.

We returned to the car and drove back to Martinstown and felt very pleased we had mastered this section of the coast path with the knowledge that every section from now onwards will be easier.

Richard Benson