June 3rd: Braunton to Westward Ho!

Setting off!

Day 4. Today, we were happy to be joined by our good friend Will, who will accompany us on the 24-mile walk to Westwood Ho! where we have the pleasure of staying at his lovely house. Will met us at The Brookfield Guest House around 7:30 in the morning.

The guest house offered a lovely continental breakfast which we enjoyed while discussing our plans for the day. We packed some fruit and sandwiches for lunch, ensuring we had enough energy for the journey ahead, said goodbye to my son and Ashley - both of whom will rejoin me on another leg of the journey - and set off into the pouring rain.

The night of our stay Ash, Max, Bob and I had enjoyed a delicious fish and chips for dinner from Squires - at the recommendation of Chris the Guest House owner - and the local pub, The Mariner, kindly let us eat it at their venue over a pint. We enjoyed our stay at The Brookfield, it was comfortable with a peaceful atmosphere and a couple of friendly hotel cats.

Instow Bay

After the physically demanding walks of the last few days, this particular trek was a welcome change. The route was wonderfully flat, with a total elevation gain of only 450 feet, making it much easier on our legs compared to the previous challenging climbs - although the wind did make it a challenge to walk for some of the journey... As we made our way along the path, we noticed that a significant portion of it was relatively featureless, consisting of miles and miles of straight stretches along an old railway line - North Devons first railway I believe.

Despite the lack of varied scenery during those stretches, we were rewarded with some stunning views of the estuary. As we continued on our way, we felt invigorated by the fresh air and the camaraderie of walking with a good friend who loves a 'dad joke' just as much as me... if not more... and who went above and beyond to ensure photos and videos were captured of the days walk in the absence of my social media photographers (Max and Ashley).

Along the way we stopped in Fremington Quay for some tea and coffee and a fabulous lemon drizzle cake. We walked past Instow bay and crossed the Bideford bridge over the River Torridge into Bideford - where we stopped for a pint. Had another pit stop at The Beaver in Appledore, with a beer and view to Crow Point, then took a last look at the Saunton Sands Hotel in the distance... and said a final farewell.

A last look back

Upon reaching Westwood Ho we were thrilled to finally arrive at Will's house, where we could unwind and recharge. And after a long day of walking, I was elated to be able to have my first hot bath - after a series of showers at my other accommodations. And after attending to Bobs blister injury and being imbued with the name Florence Phil Brown Nightingale by Will, we enjoyed a hearty meal together and had some beers at the Sundowner Bar sharing stories and laughter as we reflected on the day's adventures and Will's relentless "dad humour".

Now, to prepare my head and legs for another strenuous day ahead to Hartland Quay..