Despite this wet and gloomy start to this year, I refuse to let the rainy place deter me from venturing outdoors.
As an avid Surrey walker, I often find myself in trust sites, Woodlands, or parks, for a leisurely stroll through the stroller.
Given the inland location, the beach walk is not my usual choice, but Bournemouth is surprisingly accessible – just 75 minutes from Surrey border. So, on a dry but dull day, my husband, toddler and I embarked on a seaside adventure.
I took my M3 and joined the M27, reaching my coastal destination. Along the way we were treated to a scenic drive through the stunning forests of free roaming ponies, a New Forest National Park.
This breathtaking heathland is worth a visit in its own right.
We slowly navigated the road and paused for the fun creatures that crossed our roads – a hit with truly seductive sights and small things.
Our wildlife spotting also involved cows, deer, donkeys and birds running through the forest towards the coast.
Fascinated by roaming animals, I made a pit stop at Lyndhurst and parked on a Bolton bench (Beaulieu Rod, SO43 7DA) for a closer look at the pony and leg stretches.
The charming village has a variety of independent shops and tea rooms, and is worth exploring if time allows, Surrey Live reports.
Just a 30-minute drive from Lyndhurst, the beach is the perfect place for anyone looking to explore new forests over a long weekend.
Looking at the water, we quickly parked in the first parking lot we found (Bus Road, BH1 2ew).
Despite the sudden parking fee of £10.40 for up to 3 hours, the location was ideal, especially in many places around the area, with the pram being towed.
We began our beach adventures, headed towards the beach and strolled along the boardwalk with other family members and dog pedestrians.
It is worth noting that dogs are welcome at all Bournemouth Beach from October 1st to April 30th.
After that we ventured to the other side of the pier – West Undercliff Promenade. So we went through the oceanarium and numerous spots, grabbed a bite and drink.
My husband couldn't resist a quick round of basketball in the arcade and we were engrossed in tasty ice cream to round out the seaside experience.
Despite the lively and windy weather, it was refreshing to get fresh air in the new environment.
Bournemouth Beach has been named one of the UK's top 10 beach walk locations, taking second place to St. Ives in Cornwall.
This study, conducted by the Online Betting Guide (OLBG), determined the best beach for a day trip, taking into account factors such as beach review scores, average temperature and average rainfall.
