Walk This Way
Discovering the joy of walking in Dorset. Words by Chipo Muwowo.
Mary and Julian Navey have been married for over 30 years. During that time, walking has been one of the most treasured aspects of their life together. From their home in Bournemouth, they tell Chipo Muwowo why they love walking so much, their favourite Dorset hikes, tips for packing well, and more.
You were both born and raised in Dorset. Who or what inspired your love of walking?
We had consistent family encouragement to get out and about. We both find the great outdoors rather addictive – in a good way. We also both pray to a kind God who we believe made the great outdoors. This perspective enables us to view the world around us with great admiration and care.
Tell us about your top 3 Dorset walks and why you like them.
Spyway to Dancing Ledge. This is perfect for a short, exhilarating early morning or evening summer outing. We feel that we’ve become intimately acquainted with the (sadly declining) pairs of puffins which return each summer. And who wouldn’t want to climb down the rock face for a dip in the quarried sea pool, with its natural carpet floor and the ocean spilling in from its southern aspect?
Portland. Any part of the walking terrain in Portland brings a sense of the remote – the dramatic crashing sea, the sturdy enduring stone and the delicate flora and fauna. Two fantastic ‘holiday-feel’ cafés you must visit – the Beehive and Billy Winters.
The whole South West Coast Path. We’re in the process of tackling this hike covering consecutive stretches from Shell Bay/Studland Ferry terminal. So far, we’ve made it to the western end of South Devon. Every part is a well prepared yet challenging hike with mysterious ups and downs so you never can appreciate what might be over the next chalky hill.
What are your tips for packing well for a walk?
Good, comfortable shoes and filled water bottles are a must. We enjoy taking a small stove, water and gas for making a refreshing coffee. Add a sarong (to sit on), tin mugs (they’re sturdy), a Dorset OS paper map (in case your phone runs out of battery), emergency pack (we always carry elastoplast and paracetamol) and binoculars (you won’t want to miss anything). Oh, and chocolate raisins and pistachio nuts are good fuel for the body.
Why is walking so important to you? What does it do for you?
It feels purposeful. The planning can be exciting. We often have something we’ve heard about – a wild animal or flower sighting – that we’re keen to see for ourselves. Last year, we became fascinated with sea eagles and ospreys and discovered parts of Poole Harbour that we didn’t know even existed. Also, wildlife observation can be a great distraction from the cares of life. We’ve learned many life lessons by quietly watching the antics of insects, birds or mammals.
Where are you planning to go for your next Dorset hike?
It’s likely to be Kingcombe. The drive through rape-fields of gold is a joy. Every year the prospect of the new heavenly creation seems to be depicted here in ever-certain vistas. Driving through the trees and emerging up the hills can be a great uplift even before the boots are on our feet, and meadows have been trudged through. Even saying this has got us thinking about when we can soon fit this one in!
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