On Saturday 16th June Brockwell Swimmers took the train to Ramsgate for our first Swim/Walk of the Summer taking the coastal path 9·8 miles to Margate, with some great swims along the way of course.

The weather forecast was grim as usual, but as usual proved completely wrong with wonderful sunshine the whole length of our journey. Another surprise was the number of amazing, golden beaches along this stretch of the Kent coastline.

The train arrived on time at Ramsgate and after a short walk we were at the sea-side. Ice creams in hand we started our journey and immediately bumped into a bunch of channel swimmers training for their crossing having been kicked out of Dover harbour for the day because of an event there. Some had been in the water for 7 hours preparing for their trip to France. We felt very humbled.

Then on to Dumpton Gap for our first swim and packed lunch. Timed perfectly as the tide rose and washed away our footprints. We then took to the cliff path and walked on to Broadstairs, a picturesque Dickensian town still offering loads of oldie worldie charm but not too tacky. The bay, beach and fishing boats are a delight.

After this we continued on to our second swim at the famous Walpole Bay Sea Pool, which at high tide was completely submerged. However, we could still make out its boundaries from the posts sticking above the waves so were still able to claim a successful swim in it salty waters.

Last stretch to Margate (past the ruined Lido Sands), then a very welcome refreshing beer, before getting back on the train to London. Probably one of our best Swim/Walks yet. Worth a return trip some time.

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