On a sunny but very windy day 17 members, including 2 from the local ramblers group, left Studland National Trust car park passing Fort Henry which was built in WW2 so dignitaries could observe the D Day rehearsals.

We then followed the South West Coast Path to Old Harry Rocks, the remains of a chalk ridge connecting the Isle of Wight with the mainland, and then onward to Ballard Head.

From here there was a steady climb up Ballard Down which gave glorious views over Swanage, Studland and the surrounding coastline, and  after a short break we left the downs to return to Studland where we visited the local church with its unusual tower and the beach cafe for welcome refreshments. 

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