Day 9: Dorchester to Bridport

An even earlier start today, our third long day in a row. (If we averaged 21 miles a day for the five days before the rest day in Studland, we've now averaged over 23 miles per day for the three days after it).

The early start enables us to join the 8 o'clock communion at St Peter's...

... and the 8.30 Mass at the adjacent Catholic Church.

A thick mist descended as we left Dorchester and climbed over Maiden Castle, and various hills as we headed back towards the coast. At one stage the front markers were having to use compasses to take bearings across the fields as the visibility was so low. But as the front markers approached the Hardy Monument (to Admiral Hardy not Thomas Hardy) the mist cleared.

From the Hardy Monument it's a quick scamper down the hill into Portesham and lunch. A chance to discuss the afternoon's walk...

...or sit and think...

...or just sit.

After prayers we climbed again, affording good views back along Chesil Beach to Portland.

Snoopy explores the Kingston Russell Stone Circle.

The afternoon continued with pleasant rolling countryside.

Our evening prayers were at Shipton Gorge.

A couple more miles before we descend into Bridport...

...where Frances is waiting for us (as ever!)