Storm in Thames Estuary from Herne Bay

A very fine outing to Herne Bay for a 7 mile return stroll along the seafront starting at Hampton to the west of Herne Bay and turning around near Bishopstone to the east of the town.

Despite this dramatic scene we had lovely warm sunshine and were mostly sheltered from the worst of the blustery winds. Rather busy around the main promenade, as you would expect and the pier was popular too. We were able to enjoy a coffee on the pier without must hassle.

We walked out onto the harbour arm for the first time, our efforts rewarded by a small flock of turnstones and probably dunlin perching and flitting from rock to rock along the harbour wall.

The only fly in the ointment was a group of jet skiers who were roaring about, legitimately I might add, off the coast. Trouble was we could hear them clearly two miles or so downwind.

Just about to start a pint of hard lemonade and Susan is pouring herself a gin and tonic, with the emphasis on the gin. Then it’s time to tuck into rollmops herrings followed by a retro fish of crispy topped cod, a recipe from 23 years ago.