Standing at the ASDA bus stop in Totton at 9.20am yesterday (the 21st) 5 of us were wondering whether or not the driver would honour our passes as the No 6 bus was due just before the 9.30 window opens for their use.    But no problems and were soon on our way towards Lymington, picking up another member on the way.  Wending its way through Ashurst and Lyndhurst the bus was soon gliding through the Forest with its various beautiful fresh greens and reds of the leaves waving in the breeze as we passed.

Onward to Brockenhurst station where it doubled back to enter and skirt the village(?) and soon rejoined the main road near the Filley Inn via  Setley Plain before it eventually decanted us by st Thomas’s church at the top of the High Street. 

Crossing the road we had a short wait before the X1 bus for Bournemouth picked us up and took us into Milford on sea and  along the seafront with views across Christchurch Bay to The Needles on the  IOW then turning inland to New Milton, where the local bowls cub was celebrating it centenary year, before again touching the seafront at Barton on sea.   

We reached Christchurch just before 11 o’clock which allowed us 3 hours to wander at will.  First a coffee shop for an early lunch before strolling up to the priory.  Originally 11th century (I think) it has a beautiful nave and some interesting stained glass windows.  One was quite risqué if you have a mind like mine.    After walking around the grounds we made our way to the quayside which seemed to be swarming with swans. 

Too soon, it was time to meander via the parkland back to the town and the catch the returning buses arriving home in Totton about 4.30. 

Goodbyes all round and agreed it was a good day out.    It’s amazing how much more you see from the top deck of a bus.    Thanks to Christine for your able organising of the trip and the negotiation of the timetables to make it as seamless as possible. 

Ken