No Slots, No Bars, No Clubs
Now here is the thing.
We visited somewhere rather wonderful just the other day. Somewhere spectacular and beautiful, a place that we both loved.
A place that I decided to write a few words about here.
But also a place that I do not want to share.
It’ s not a hidden secret. But it is a little gem of a beach (your first clue) that does not need any more people visiting and slowly, insidiously ruining the charm. It certainly does not need an introduction to the “British holiday experience”.
A long, open and unspoiled beach of soft sand backed by wide sand dunes, a designated wildlife haven. An old fashioned car park with a real person in a hut at the entrance taking cash (imagine that, no card or smartphone app required) and offering reasonably priced day tickets. No “on street” parking clogging up the neighbouring village. A couple of decent refreshment stands and free toilet facilities.
And no slots, no bars or clubs, no music, no pier, no burgers, chips or ice creams.
We walked on the beach, found a place next to the dunes and just sat and relaxed. The sun came out and we people watched for a while, although there were not that many around. The blue sky duly appeared and we even managed a quick dip in the still cold sea.
But the highlight of the day? Well, highlights might be a more accurate word to use. Once we saw the first little head bobbing around in the water, just off the beach, we couldn’t help but notice more. Appearing on a frequent basis, almost unseen by most of our beach neighbours. But the seals kept coming, just their heads, looking as if they were intrigued by the people on their beach.
And when people in the sea did notice that they were swimming with seals, the squeals of delight were a joy to hear.
So no, I am not going to share this place with you.
If it appeals, find it for yourself. But take my word, you will also find it charming and beautiful and will not want it spoiled. And if you see any little heads bobbing in the water just a few feet away from the edge of the soft sand, you will know exactly what they are.
