To Lundy

18 Apr day 1

V smooth journey to Ilfracombe, left house at 6am after 0445 rising (groan), arrived 0825. Put car in Larkstone Park, paying on Ringgo for 6 days - that's a new experience. MV Oldenburg very old-fashioned and quite lovely, sea v calm, arrived ontime at noon. John met us at the pier for the stiff walk up to Old House South; very glad they bring the bags up for us. 

After our sandwich lunch and meeting Andrew we walked to the SW corner, via the church (which is the island's WiFi hotspot ... and was built in 1890s by Rev Heaven, a splendid example of nominative determinism!) but chose the wrong path for the Devil's Limekiln, a massive blowhole, so another day. Went on to Old Light at the island's highest point, and climbed the 147 narrow steps to the lantern room where John and Andrew discovered two deckchairs; could have stayed all day enjoying the splendid views including down to the 'village'. On our return the bags and our shopping order had been delivered and Guy had made scones, so a splendid tea was had.

L and I went to the 5pm talk by chief warden Joe, quite an interesting hour of history and wildlife although we both struggled to stay awake. The others joined us and we had dinner in the Marisco Tavern - a splendid local game pie and almost 2 pints of Hicks strong beer - John had to help me out. We went to bed at 2030, completely knackered

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