Summer Promise

Last time I was here, the sun was shining, and even though it was February, the beach looked a whole lot more inviting than it did today.
 
It may have been cold then, but at least the sun was shining and the beach looked near its best, but today by contrast it was overcast, and the expectation of rain was in the air.
 
Which was a little unexpected, because despite heavy showers further inland, as I drove through the New Forest, the moment I turned south towards Bournemouth, the sky improved considerably. Blue skies ahead looked promising and a welcome expectation after experiencing the greater part of the day of heavy showers,
 
Nevertheless the beach at Alum Chine is on of the best on this stretch of the south coast, west of the town beach at Bournemouth and in season is usually less crowded than the stretch nearer the town centre.  It’s known for its top quality sand and bathing water.
 
Yet though overcast, there was a splendid view from the cliff top to the western end of the Isle of Wight and the Needles.
 
Nearer the Chine, one of the elegant districts of Bournemouth, Westbourne is only a short drive, bus journey or even walk away. Its shops offer a mix of design specialists, beauty stores, intriguing delis and restaurants, and is often referred to as The Village
 

 It’s only 30 miles from home and I am determined to come back in summer.