It was a bright, sunny day and I thought, "What shall I do?" A train journey might be an option or maybe a walk. I know, what about combining the two? A brainwave, combining the two but someone had got there before me with that idea.
I picked up the One railway leaflet and decided to take the East Suffolk Line train which links Ipswich and Lowestoft. The train stops at stations along the way in market towns and villages. There is even an accompanying booklet detailing a series of walks from each of the stations along the route.
Now, that's what I call thoughtful. I didn't even have to plan my route it was all done for me. That's great organisation.
The only decision I had to make was where I wanted to explore. The choice was wide; the stations include Woodbridge, Melton, Saxmundham, Darsham, Halesworth and Beccles.
I boarded the train at Woodbridge after I had enjoyed the delights of that wonderful town. Taking in the views over the quay of the River Deben, where there is always lots going on, and, of course, the inimitable Tide Mill.
What a relaxing way to travel, no traffic jams, no stress and I was able to enjoy the wonderful scenery, something you cannot do when concentrating on driving. Arriving at my destination safely and suitably refreshed, I was prepared for a walk.
The rail walks range from a short stroll to a walk of just over 10 miles, providing enjoyment for all types of walkers and covering differing landscapes. It is even possible to join up all 11 walks to make a trail of more than 70 miles but I think I will leave that one for another time!
The brilliant thing about the East Suffolk Line is that it runs daily all through the year so you don't have to wait for the spring or summer.
Well, here I am at my chosen spot, I disembark (do we still use that word?) from the train and set off on my walk.
Beccles is not somewhere I had ever been to but felt drawn to the aptly named Angles Way Walk (you will be reading this in the angle - get the connection?) The walk starts in Beccles and ends in Oulton Broad South. I thought that the distance of 9.5 miles was something that even I could manage and although there were no pubs or shops directly on the route I knew that there would be plenty at the end of the walk. Yippee!
Beccles is a market town and has, I believe, the claim to fame of being the place where Catherine Suckling married the Reverend Edward Nelson. The marriage took place in the parish church of St Michael and the couple later became the parents of the renowned Horatio Nelson, one of the greatest seafarers in history.
There was so much to see on my walk. I was able to view the panorama across Castle Marshes, a Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserve, from the bank top path and I had a choice of special spots to stop to enjoy my packed lunch.
I had a great day and even though I was very tired at the end of it at least I knew I didn't have to drive home. Back on the train at the end of the day, I was able to relax and enjoy the scenery once more.
Maybe next time I take the East Suffolk Line I will load the bike, as there are equal opportunities to cycle around the areas.
A particularly nice touch to this line is that there is a bus link which can take you from Darsham station to the RSPB Minsmere Bird Reserve. Booking for this CoastLink service is essential.
www.onerailway.com
www.eastsuffolklinewalks.co.uk