The Ocean Backpackers hostel in Ilfracombe was one of the best I stayed at and included free internet access which was very useful. I left the hostel at 7.10am and walked around the Harbour and was able to pick up the Coast Path. As often happens the signposting is poorest going out of the towns and villages. However, people are most helpful if asked. At 8.10 I reached Hele Bay and Watermouth Bay at 9.00am. I arrived in Coombe Martin at 9.45am which I was pleased about as the path took a circuitous route in places and alongside the road at other times. I stopped in Coombe Martin to do some shopping and then to a cafe to have something to eat and drink. At 10.30am I resumed my journey and started off for Little Hangman and then onwards to Great Hangman. The climb was steep initially then more steady between the two until I reached the top at 1043 feet which is the highest point on the entire Coast path.
Along the way to Heddons Mouth I met a familiar face - Oliver whom I met and walked with yesterday was walking the opposite way to me and had done so deliberately so as to meet me on the way! At Heddons Mouth the path goes right down to sea level and then on the other side of the river, having crossed on a stone arched bridge the path went uphill again. It was steady but not difficult. At Heddons Mouth I stopped for lunch at 2.10pm and resumed the journey at 2.20pm and pressed on. When I got to Woody Bay I missed the sign for the path distracted by an alterrnative signpost indicating America, Russia, Iceland and New Zealand! Having walked nearly to the beach I had to walk up again until I got back on the path. I arrived at Lee Abbey about 4.45pm having not had to rush at all. Here I stayed for an evening meal and bed and breakfast.
Distance walked today - 18 miles
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