weymouth and Portland
I first visited Weymouth in 1984 and when i had the opportunity to go there with the navy the following year i jumped at the chance. After leaving I stayed there as it is such a good place to live.
There is so much to see and do, I dont know where to begin. Its main feature is its lovely safe sandy beach. The resort is what is known as a traditional 'bucket and spade resort'. Very safe waters and clean. This led to King george 3 visiting the area in the 1800's and the area boomed.
It had been a navy port for over 500 years. Now the Navy has moved out the area has undergone a resurgance since being chosen to host the sailing events for the 2012 olympics on Portland.
There are so many different places to go walking, sightseeing, swimming and exploring. You should never be bored.
Plenty of nightlife and good food.
Weymouth is joined to the Island of Portland by a huge natural pebble bank. This runs for 16 miles and makes up part of the 'World heritage site' Jurassic coastline. Its an amazing place with so much history. it is famous for its quarries and Portland stone. Most of the historic buildings in London are built from this stone, such as Houses of parliament, St Pauls cathedral, Tower bridge ansd most other buildings of that era.
It is totally free and always attracts large crowds of all age groups.
As it past the summer season it does not interfere with other beach users. It is also one of the last races of the season as the sand totally wrecks the bikes.
There are 3 catorgories, from beginners, intermediate and seniors. There are three races per catorgary. Each race starts with about 100 bikes setting of at full speed along the waterfront for several hundred metres and then turn into the jumps and turns of the circuit. The start is really spectacular.
As the day goes on and the tide starts to come in the bikes are forced to ride through the sea which looks really good.
It is a totally safe event as spectators are standing up on the Esplanade well out of the way. This allows you to be right next to the action without having to worry.
It can get a little bit cold at this time of year, so take care to wrap up warm.
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Obviously the success of the event is very dependant on the weather. A sunny day but with a good wind, but not too strong. it also depends on which clubs and countries participate. Its not only UK kites.
The beach is cordoned off into sections. Learners and casual flyers, Stunt Kites and aerofoils, and unique display kites.
This keeps the rest of the beach safe for spectators and other beach users.
There are also many vendors selling every type of kite you want. Also workshops where children can make their own kites and fly them on the beach.
