Coast and Country Walking

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Coast and Country Walking

Local Walking Guide - Offering bespoke walking guide services and Group Walks
(4)

30/08/2024

If you are booked for the September Musbury walk. Expect this view (weather permitting)

29/08/2024

Come and join our walking club.

To join you need to live locally and have completed the online personal information form.

Once done you can book up on any of our walks.

Come and join us.

29/08/2024

Throw those curtains wide. Come and join us on our hugely popular Big Days Out. The next one is this Sunday 1st Sept at Tarr Steps. A few places have come available. Hurry as they don’t last long. The scenery on this one is stunning.

These places are open to walking club members.

To join just fill in the online form, you must have a local address. Click on the link to complete the form , once you’ve done that you are able to book any of the walks.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

Book online

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

27/08/2024

She has done it again. Susie Lee our resident poet, has summed up our big day out perfectly.

26/08/2024

Haytor Big Day Out - August 2024

The final walk of August proved to be an excellent one. Where on earth do I start to describe today.

There were tears of happiness. Nicki I hope you love your painting.

Compasses galore and some navigation training.

Hills and Views. Wow what views. I mean really, WOW.

Reunions of old school friends. This cant go unmentioned. Two ramblers who havent seen each since school in the South East. Ended up unknowingly being on todays walk.

Today's facts centred around literature and the Hound of the Baskervilles, 280 million years of history cobbled together in a minute. A visit to a witches meeting place, and the search for a lost child.........from the 18th Century. Even visited a bronze age village, which had its own laundrette and telephone exchange.

I feel rather privledged to be able to be with such a great group of people. A group that I consider friends. After a week of turmoil, upset and loss. There has been no better way to heal than with these wonderful human beings. This is living folks.

If you feel like you are missing out. I'll be frank, you are. Please don't miss out, come and join us. You'll be made to feel very welcome.

From this walk leader, thank you to every single one of you. You've all made it a great day,

Andy

23/08/2024

You couldn't get better views than today.

Todays walk took us around Sidford, Sidbury and East Hill. We were blessed with some astounding views and breathtaking smells.

Those who have moved here from towns, were fascinated by the farming practise of spreading slurry. Yes you read that right. I had to drag them away from the edge of a field about to be washed in slurry as they watched in excitement. Those well versed in the Countryside, stood well back.

We had another expert with us today. Linda a local resident was able to tell what was what in Sidbury, including showing us a very impressive mature Cork Tree.

Sidbury has many interesting stories, such as the headless horsemen, and The Grey Lady of Sidbury Church. We are talking ghosts. Plus the 800yr old tradition of hot pennies. Did you know this was started by the then Lord of the Manor who threw scalding hot pennies at the local children. Then took great delight watching them burn their hands as they collected them. Things are a bit kinder these days.

I reluctantly had to delve into my first aid kit again. The first aid kit was supposed to be for show, not to be used. This time John deliberately antogonised a wasp who then stung him.

Today was a proper tonic, we had five star view after view. Some exceptional company with much laughter and fun.

I mean this with much sincerity. If you are under the weather, or feeling a bit stressed, come on one of these walks. The mixture of the great outdoors and some brilliant people will have you cured in no time.

September dates are on the website.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

To join the walking club, you need to live locally, its FREE to join, just fill in the personal information form.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-walking-guide

Really looking forward to seeing you on a walk soon,

Andy

23/08/2024

September Dates are now out.

Booking has been made much simpler, with all walks having the payment online facility.

Please note when using the booking page, not all the entries will be visible on one page and you may need to click on +SEE ALL (See picture)

Look forward to seeing you on a walk soon,

Andy

22/08/2024

After what has been a stressful week. It was good to be back out on the trails again today.

The weather improved throughout the walk. The seafront provided us with some incredible waves. Being a sensible group we avoided the waves breaking over the esplanade. We climbed our only hill today, a moderate hill for some and a severe one according to Nicki.

At the top we were treated to some great views looking West across East Devon. Today we had an expert in our midst. Michelle one of our regular walkers completely stole the show with her knowledge of the unique and rare heathers, which only grow on pebblebed heaths such as Mutters Moor.

Then the journey took us across to Peak Hill. We then descended down a moderate hill to the Clock Tower Tea Rooms for refreshments. Only to come across some old friends of mine who were on their holidays.

Fresh air and good company is a great tonic when you have had a tough week.

Tomorrow we embark on a slightly bigger walk further inland. For those joining us I will see you in the morning.

Andy

18/08/2024

Today has been one of those days where the weather was right, and the views perfect.

The location is one of the favourites, Beer to Branscombe. This is probably the most requested walk, and I can see why. I decided to reverse the usual route to lessen the severity of the climbs, and it paid off. The only climb was 'Stairway to Heaven' Grizzly runners will know what I mean. But we avoided the mountains either side of Branscombe to everyone's delight.

The story of the MSC Napoli was told over lunch. But probably most interesting was the story of how smuggling was so closely associated with Beer.

Another great day on the trails, with people I have come to call friends.

Looking forward to the next one,

Andy

17/08/2024

We have a great group walking on Sunday at Branscombe and there are still places left.

There will be plenty of laughter and refreshment stops along the way.

Head over to the website to book your place.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

15/08/2024

Back on the trails again today with my fantastic walking group.

This morning we welcomed several new members to a moderate walk with a severe climb to start with. Today we ventured into the wilderness of Dalwood. Tucked away at the foot of the Blackdown Hills, and watched over by Stockland Hill Mast.

Interesting facts of the day, included a former Prime Minister of Portugal has his son buried in the Church Yard.

We were in for treats today thanks to Lynne who supplied the entire team with fudge, and very nice it was too. Thanks Lynne.

I know I've said this before but there is nothing more satisfying for me, than leading a group and hearing the chatter and laughter behind you. People from all walks of life interacting with each other. If they hadn't come on these walks they might never have met. Its what I set out to achieve when all this started, it really is a great feeling.

The walk finished with an epic downhill and some incredible views. Then on to the 800yr old Tuckers Arm pub. I have to say the service and the food was exceptional.

The next walk is on Sunday. Its a popular one, Beer to Branscombe. For those wanting to know more, a number of us on this walk were involved in the MSC Napoli Shipping disaster and will share some of our experiences.

Thank you to everyone today, it was another great day out,

Andy

14/08/2024

After having to change the route at the last minute , the plan B turned into a great walk.

We started out from Gittisham and climbed up to East Hill. Not only did I get the planned distance spot on , we also walked the fastest pace, giving us more time at the pub.

The views across East Devon didn’t disappoint and neither did the group. With plenty of laughter and banter, essential on our walks.

I’d like to thank Nicki for my gift. Earlier in the week I did a recce of a walk. Only to find a mile of path was overgrown. Always thinking positive I kept going. Only to be stung by one of the best crops of stinging nettles I’ve ever seen. Nicki sensing my pain bought me a miniature set of secateurs which came in very handy today. So thoughtful.

Today’s interesting facts told lots about the Coombe Estate, especially the story about the current heir and how he inherited the estate.

No hanging around, our next walk is tomorrow in Dalwood.

See those of you booked up in the morning,

Andy

11/08/2024

Today was our Big Day Out to Lustleigh

Once again another great day amongst friends.

We tackled a moderate grade walk with the odd severe hill thrown in to keep some members of the group on their toes.

We started the day off in the fog and rain at Manaton, a small village on the edge of Dartmoor. Nearby was the famous Bowermans Nose Rock, where legend says a Norman Hunter was tricked by witches who turned him and his hounds to stone.

The walk then headed off through the beautiful woods of Lustleigh Cleave and then onto Lustleigh itself. If you have a spare million pound down the back of the sofa, you'd get a bargain property in this stunning Devon village.

After refreshments we tackled our first moderate-severe graded hill. Sady the usual views weren't visible due to low cloud. We then carried on to Becky Falls, or was she pushed? (not my joke, but thought it was funny). The group were treated to hearing Becky Falls, a impressive 70 ft waterfall. As I said they heard it, as there is a charge to enter this area and actually see it. But we got one up on them, as Stuart uploaded a video from youtube and we got to see it after all. Result.

The day ended up in the garden of a Dartmoor pub, in the sunshine.

If you have managed to read this far, just look at the pics. Those smiles are the real deal. If you want to join this happy group of ramblers just fill in a personal information form and choose from any of the walks. Its that easy. I worry about the rest, so you can have an enjoyable day.

See you all on the next walk,

Andy

10/08/2024

Tomorrow the gang from Coast & Country go on their Big Day Out to Lustleigh Cleave. They are in for a treat. We are off to one of the most beautiful stunning areas of Devon.

There is a common theme in all our walks, great views, laughter, smiles and the occasional hill (well you don’t get views without a climb).

People have joined our group for various reasons - moved to the area, fed up with walking alone, want to meet new people, suffered a bereavement, recovering from illness or just enjoy walking and the company of others. What ever your reason, everyone is welcome.

I started these group walks in September last year and since then nearly 200 people have been on my walks. I’ve made many new friends, and seen friendships grow amongst the group. There is nothing more satisfying than leading a group and listening to the chatter and laughter behind me as I dance through a healthy crop of stinging nettles in shorts.

There are still spaces left on the August walks. All you need to do is complete the personal information form and book your place on a walk. Let me take care of the rest. You just need to turn up, the group and I will ensure you have a great day.

I’ll see those booked up for the Big Day Out in the morning, and hopefully see the rest of you on the next walk,

Andy

08/08/2024

I ordered good weather today and it appears to have been delivered to the wrong address.

But that didn’t dampen the spirits of this great bunch.

Today we tackled a 6.7 mile walk which was actually 8.5 miles, but no one noticed, so don’t tell them.

Today’s walk along the Jurassic Coast provided some of our best views this year. Looking down the coast you could see as far as Torbay and all the way to Portland. The old fisherman’s tale ‘If you can see Portland Bill, it’s going to rain’ turned out to be total rubbish.

It really was a great day, finished off with a Mr Whippy and flake. Although Mr Greedy Patrick had two all to himself. Some people have no manners.

The next walk is a Big Day Out to Lustleigh on the edge of Dartmoor. There are still spaces on this one, if you are interested in joining hurry before it gets fully booked.

See you on the next walk,

Andy

07/08/2024

** Sound on for this one ***

I was so impressed by this poem written by Susie, one of my ramblers. I just had to get a friend of mine to read it.

Susie thank you for doing such an amazing job of summing up the day so well.

To those who have never been on one of our walks, you are seriously missing out. There are still plenty of walks left for August and at present all have spaces left.

Andy

07/08/2024

New Members,

If you have just joined us. You can now book on any of the walks marked 'Members Only'

Some walks fill up fast, so don't delay if you see a walk you are interested in.

Really looking forward to seeing you on a walk soon,

Andy

06/08/2024

The biggest walk yet

Yesterday the club walk tackled the Sidmouth Ring. A 14 mile walk that takes in all the best views of the Sid Valley. Unfortunately low cloud ruined a few of those views.

This was an unhurried walk, which involved plenty of stops. These included a very busy Donkey Sanctuary, a picnic on the cliff path, Taste of Sidmouth for ice creams, a look around the Sidmouth Folk Festival and a visit to one of Sidmouth’s Award Winning Gardens.

I try to cater for everyone with many different types of walks and distances. Not all my walks are this long. So don’t be put off if you are just starting out. We are a friendly welcoming bunch who always walk at the slowest persons pace.

Over the last few days 20 new people have signed up to the club. I’m looking forward to seeing you all on a walk soon.

Have a great day,

Andy

03/08/2024

Come and join us.

I have 9 group walks planned for August. The distances range from shorter walks to some longer day walks.

August is a month where we have good weather, and even if it rains it’s ok because it’s warmer.

These walks are extremely popular, with some booking up very fast indeed. There are still spaces available on all, but hurry to ensure you secure your place.

These walks are currently open to walking club members.

To join it’s very very simple

1. You must have a permanent local address
2. Have completed the very simple straightforward personal information form (click on link)

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

Once that’s complete you can book on any of the walks.

Look forward to seeing you on one of our walks,

Andy

02/08/2024

I’m back after taking a week off. Just a reminder of the available walks this month.

The next one is ‘The Sidmouth Ring’ on Mon 5th. This walk takes us all around the Sid Valley providing some of the most spectacular views. It’s also Sidmouth Folk Week. Part of the walk will soak up the atmosphere on our journey. This is likely to be an all day walk, with a few refreshment stops along the way.

My advice is hurry if you are interested in any of the walks as some are filling fast.

The walks are currently open to walking club members only.

In order to join our club you need two things

1. To have a permanent address in the locality
2. Have completed a personal information form
(See link)

Once the form
Is submitted you are able to book any of the member walks online using the booking page.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

Look forward to seeing you on the next walk,

Andy

25/07/2024

Hi Everyone,

I will be taking a short break from the walking this week.

You can continue to book the August walks using the online booking page (See Link). The only delay will be the walk details which I will send out on the 2nd August.

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

If you wish to join the walking club it is very easy.

The only rules are - You must have a local permanent address and have completed the personal information form, which you can complete online (click on the link)

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

Once you have done that you are free to book on any of the advertised walks.

See you soon,

Andy

25/07/2024

The walks for August are here.........

To join this brilliant group of people on some great walks. You can join our walking club very very easily.

Rules - you must have a permanent local address

1. Complete the online personal information form (click on the link)

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

2. Once completed you can book any of the published walks (click on the link)

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

Once booked you will receive a automated confirmation.

Usually within 48 hours I will manually send out walk details via email. This has all the information you need for your walk.

(From 26/07/24 to 02/08/24 there will be a delay in sending walk details)

Well behaved dogs and dog owners are welcome.

Look forward to seeing you on a walk soon,

Andy

24/07/2024

Killerton Walk

Today’s 6 mile walk started and finished at Killerton House, the former home of the Acland family.

The ramblers were treated today to some of the most amazing facts. Which included seeing the home to a bear, yes that’s correct. The Killerton estate had its own bear in the 19th C.

We had an even better treat later at Ellerhayes . Where we were met by Jimmy Somerville from the Communards. He almost missed us as he was driving his electric car so fast. Fortunately he reversed back and in his signature high pitched voice gave us a rendition of ‘Don’t leave me this way’ in Swahili. No one actually understood a word of what he said. But there was no mistaking those shrill high notes from the tiny little man. Thanks Jimmy the whole group enjoyed your appearance more than my interesting facts.
Although next time I’ll get Gerald from Clarksons Farm to translate whatever you were on about.

You can’t ever say the walks aren’t interesting (see group photo).

Thanks everyone for a great morning, with plenty of laughter, good humour, and chatter.

The August walks will be posted in due course.

Andy

23/07/2024

There is still time to book a place on tomorrows 24/07 Killerton Walk. Click on the link which will take you directly to the booking page

https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page

21/07/2024

Hope Cove - Big Day Out, and it was a Brilliant Day Out.

We started off quite early this morning and headed down to South Devon to walk the coastal path to Hope Cove.

Slightly longer than some of our recent walks, this 11 miler treated us to some of the most amazing views. Along the way the educational wing of Coast and Country Walking was able to enlighten this happy band with some very interesting facts. These included visiting the site of a huge Nuclear Bunker, big enough to house 150 people. We visited a number of WWII sites including a satellite airfield of RAF Exeter. Learnt about coastal ship wrecks, and how the Bond Film Moonraker got its name.

Today's medical emergency involved performing a minor operation on the feet of Nicki, I know a strong stomach was required. She is expected to make a full recovery, once she ditches the primark socks.

We had a pit stop in the beautiful village of Hope Cove, with 4 of the gang going AWOL in search of Ice Cream. They were soon returned to the custody of the group.

When I walk out in front leading the way, nothing makes me feel happier than hearing the sound of chitter chatter amongst the group. Many of these people would never have crossed paths in normal life. Now they are the best of friends.

Thank you Guy and Jacqui for my refreshments today, most kind of you.

If you read this and really like the sound of being part of this incredible friendly welcoming group of people, just come along and join us.

The next walk is at Killerton on Wednesday. If you havent signed up, there is still time.

See you on the next walk,

Andy

17/07/2024

Today’s walk took us along the River Otter to Tipton St John then back via Fluxton, Metcombe and Venn Ottery. Finishing at the Southern Cross for a cream tea.

The weather was perfect today, although one very short section wanted to hang on to the mud and puddles for as long as possible (the dogs enjoyed it 😂)

We weren’t far from the site of an air crash, which happened to occur 44 yrs ago today. What’s even more impressive Emma one of today’s group members witnessed the crash and was able to give her account.

These cream tea walks have become very popular. This is the third we’ve held in the last two months, no wonder my waist size is increasing.

If you read these posts and think I’d like to do that. Do it. Life is about making memories, not dreams.

Next walk is tomorrow, starting at Sidmouth, full details are on the booking page of the website.

If you live locally and you have completed a personal information form. You are welcome to book up on any of the walks.

Look forward to seeing you all soon,

Andy

17/07/2024

Today marked the 44th Anniversary of the Ottery Plane Crash. At 2053hrs on 17th July 1980. A plane carrying 62 passengers crashed into a field nr Ottery St Mary.

Today I told the story with the help of an eye witness, who is also a member of our walking club.

This mornings walk took us very near the scene. The pictures show the aftermath and includes the cover of the book I mentioned which tells the whole story.

Thank you Emma Bradshaw-Smith for telling us your very personal account of that evening.

17/07/2024

A Team from Coast and Country’s Walking Club supported this event. See if you can pick out some of our members. Next year I hope to have a huge number of our club supporting this incredibly important charity

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Throw those curtains wide. Come and join us on our hugely popular Big Days Out. The next one is this Sunday 1st Sept at Tarr Steps. A few places have come available. Hurry as they don’t last long. The scenery on this one is stunning. These places are open to walking club members. To join just fill in the online form, you must have a local address. Click on the link to complete the form , once you’ve done that you are able to book any of the walks. https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms Book online https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy

Big Day Out with the the Coast & Country Walking Club, Bank Holiday Monday on Dartmoor #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy

** Sound on for this one *** I was so impressed by this poem written by Susie, one of my ramblers. I just had to get a friend of mine to read it. Susie thank you for doing such an amazing job of summing up the day so well. To those who have never been on one of our walks, you are seriously missing out. There are still plenty of walks left for August and at present all have spaces left. Andy #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy #sidmouthring #visitsidmouth

Walk testing in South Devon

I have one very simple request for you today. SHARE this post - you don't have to do anything else, just click share. This link below has more details https://mstherapycentresw.enthuse.com/pf/nyelevett #nyelevett

Today is walk day, and the walking club are off to Golden Cap in Dorset. Over the next month I have lots of walks planned with some stunning views. For those living locally, you can still join my Walking Club, giving you access to all my walks. All you need is a permanent address in the locality, and to have completed the personal information form. https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms Look forward to seeing you on a walk soon, Andy

Couldn’t believe the logic in some. The water got much deeper before they got to the end. All to save £2.80 on the boat trip. #stmichaelsmount #cornwall

I still have places on the Colyton 5 mile walk - Thursday 20th June. This really nice walk takes us on a circuit around the beautiful village of Colyton. The weather is looking good, which will help us see some of the most spectacular views across the Axe Valley. If you are new to our local walking group all you need to do is complete the personal information form. On average it takes most people just over a minute to fill in. Then book up on the website. Once thats done I'll send out all the information you need for the walk. If you are following this page and know of others who might be interested, please get them to follow me. I look forward to seeing you on the walk, Andy #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy Booking Page Link https://coastandcountrywalking.com/booking-page Personal Info Form Link https://coastandcountrywalking.com/personal-info-forms

On Sunday Coast & Country Walking hosted the Topsham Cosy Walk in aid of the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance. We were joined a great bunch of people who helped kick off Dementia Action Week. More details of the routes can be found at https://exetercosyroutes.wordpress.com #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy

0834hrs dropping down to Weston Beach. 3 more hills to go and you’ve done it. #maps100 #bicton

The Final leg is under way. It’s 0643hrs at Beer (mile 83). The next stop Branscombe. If this video doesn’t inspire you to donate I don’t know what will. These guys are incredible. https://www.justgiving.com/team/mapsbatonofbicton?fbclid=IwAR1kK_895IfxaAZsxDxdNPj7r_MecGGFdTeSxJXnsOh4goChUJu4Aj4W7V8 #bicton #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy #maps100

It’s 0530hrs the runners are about to Leave to start the final leg of this incredible journey. Yes that is rain you can hear outside. For the next few hours this is going to add another element to this already gruelling challenge. I really want you to continue to get behind them today. If you are on their route between Beer and Otterton give them a cheer. I’d also like to see the money raised swell today. If you can give even just a few pounds please do. These kids are amazing . Thank you everyone for sharing liking and commenting. I’ll update you through the day #bicton #maps100

Day Two - and they are off from Chesil Beach

Group walk day Exminster - Turf Locks. The peace was shattered at the refreshment stop #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy

There are few families who haven't been touched by the effects of Dementia. Lets give this local charity our support and turn out on Sunday 12th May. Where we will be walking one of the charities Cosy Routes from Topsham. The route was designed by members of the Alliance as a Dementia friendly route. Proceeds will be going to the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance. To book your place. Head over to the website coastandcountrywalking.com #walkingwithandy #coastandcountrywalking #exeterdementiaactionalliance #cosywalks #exeterdementia

Made it back safely from doing the NC500 in true Coast and Country style we experienced lots and lots of weather. My youngest son braved the weather sleeping in a tent. Pitched right on the North West Coast , exposed to an incredibly cold and blustery night. Its character building #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy #nc500 #nc500route #nc500adventure #nc500trip #coastandcountrywalking #walkingwithandy

A nice day out with the Coast and Country Walking Group. We had lovely weather as usual 🤣🤣 I wont be answering any emails until 22nd April. Online booking is still working, walk details will be sent on the 22nd

Summer is coming........honest 🤣🤣 There are still spaces left on the remaining April Walking Group Walks. The May dates have just been released - head to the booking page on the website. To be a member of the walking group - you need to have a permanent address in Devon, Cornwall, West Dorset or West Somerset. Fill in a personal information form on the website to join the group. See you on the next walk, Andy #walkingwithandy #coastandcountrywalking

Good luck to all my ramblers who are taking part in this years walking backwards challenge. You don’t need to come to the event, you can join in at home. All you need to do is walk a mile backwards this morning and send me your videos. Good luck everyone. See you at the finish line at lunchtime.