Devil's Punchbowl

We decided to venture slightly further afield last Sunday and decided on the Devil's Punchbowl near Hindhead in Surrey.  We'd not been there for many years, certainly well before we had the dogs and were pleasantly surprised to find the busy road alongside has now disappeared thanks to the completion of the tunnel.

We walked up to the trip point with lovely views back to the North Downs.  It was still overcast at this point but given the torrential downpour on the way this was a nice surprise.

And over to the celtic cross.

We then dropped down into the Punchbowl itself, what a lovely spot to live although it's a fair old walk to the pub.  The day was beginning to brighten up by this time.

Heidi enjoyed herself as usual, particularly with the ponies.

And walked back through the trees with occasional glimpses back towards the bowl.

The view from the car park.

For post walk refreshment we visited The Woolpack in Elstead.  A pleasant enough pub although clearly more geared to food and dog friendly but be warned they have rabbits running loose in the beer garden.  We opted to sit inside...

Leith Hill

Easter Monday took us to Leith Hill, the highest spot in Surrey.  The hill itself falls tantalisingly short of the magic 1,000 feet mark so somebody had the bright idea of building a tower to make up the difference.  This now holds a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks which is always welcome to certain family members.  You can also climb the tower and the views can be stunning on clear days.

We parked in the newly expanded National Trust car park for Leith Hill Place although there are several other options dotted around.  There are several waymarked routes or you can just explore if you're feeling adventurous .

Sadly the current air pollution in the UK restricted the views somewhat.

Not that this bothered Heidi.

Leith Hill Place has opened to the public in the past few years with dogs being allowed in the grounds.

Thoroughly tired but very happy after her exertions.

We did want to pop into the Plough in Coldharbour but sadly we were too early and it wasn't open, hopefully next time.  Instead, after popping into a pet shop in Dorking, we opted for The Dophin, Betchworth.  A lovely little pub in a wonderful setting and one that actually allows dogs in the restaurant area.

St Margaret's Bay

The Saturday of the Easter weekend found us foolishly agreeing to meet one branch of the family at St Margaret's Bay, near Dover in Kent.  Certain relations have been reluctant to visit since Heidi arrived and the introduction of Kiki has only served to compound the problem.  St Margaret's Bay was suggested as due to the nearby Coastguard Pub although it later transpired that dogs are only allowed into the bar and not the restaurant as first suggested.

I'd not been to St Margaret's for many years having often enjoyed the walk from Dover with the dogs as a child.

We decided to travel down early to ensure the girls had a bit of exercise first although I foolishly forgot to consult the tide table and the sea was in when we arrived.  The day started off grey and cold although things did improve later on.

Heidi always enjoys a visit to the seaside.

 Memorial to the Dover Patrol.

South Foreland Lighthouse.

All in, an enjoyable day out and thankfully the holiday traffic was kind to us.