When I was very young, my mum worked in Swanage. During the holidays I would go with her. I was pretty much left to my own devices so I would wander all over the town exploring it.
Amongst my favourite places were Peveril Point, where I would watch the waves and explore the old WW2 bunkers, with I think at least one where you could just sit under shelter. Particularly useful when it rained. Also Durlston Castle, I was fascinated by the large stone globe.
Not much further on from Durlston was Swanage Lighthouse. For a lighthouse, it was (to my small eyes) quite a sizeable establishment. I wonder if the keeper lived there with his family? My first encounter with a lighthouse though would probably been Portland Bill. I can remember seeing the red and white building. We must have been on a day out.
Quite a few years later I was on a camping trip (yes, against my better judgement I went camping, never again though through chop ice. this trip was to the Scilly Isles, I must admit, it was a fascinating few days, exploring St Mary’s the main island, we visited fresco and experienced the sub-tropical gardens there. But for me the highlight of the trips was the boat ride out to the Bishops Rock lighthouse.
Sadly we weren’t able to visit the lighthouse, but to see it was impressive, especially when you think how it was built and when. I had always fancied the idea of being a lighthouse keeper. Not really sure why, it just really appealed me. Nowadays of course they are all automatic (I think. There may still be some manned ones).
Not sure what it is that appeals to me, but my interest has never gone away.
Bills Posts 