Text contributed by Lisa; pics by Christina and Lisa.
Many months ago, Glen strategically planned the 5th July Clifftop Cluster picnic and seaside stroll to take place as close to midsummer as possible whilst, critically, avoiding the Dove Inn social evening.
And what superb planning it was, with a record IOG turn out arriving with ladened wicker baskets of home-baked goodies to share whilst enjoying the beautiful evening atop the cliff, watching seals frolic in the sparkling sea.
A leisurely promenade walk followed with regular ice cream stops (who could believe it was Felixstowe’s free ice cream day too!). Occasional breaks to dip toes in the cooling sea and to sit on the beach made this an idyllic summer evening. What a grand success!
And then Glen woke up from his perfect dream and heard the rain pounding on his bedroom window…
In reality, nine hardy souls and two dogs turned up to sit in their cars and eat their picnics whilst peering through the rain on their windscreens at the similarly coloured grey sea and sky.
Glen said there was a seal out there, but I’m certain that was just said to make us stay.
We braved the rain to stroll along the prom, admiring the closed beach huts and kiosks and ranking biscuits in order of preference until we reached the Boardwalk on the pier for a fabulous, indoor, hot chocolate stop.
The return walk was actually quite warm, with the rain and wind behind us this time, affording us clearer views of the ships at sea and some humongous mansions on Cobbold Point.
Felixstowe is a lovely Victorian seaside resort and is well worth the visit, even on soggy days.
We all finished the nearly 5-mile walk saying it was a fun evening, filled with humour and comradery that only the British summer can provide sometimes.
