but Southwold is still the place for lots of fresh air and exercise.
MWNN and I set off together this morning, heading for the beach at the end of Ferry Road. We parted company outside the Harbour Cafe, where we planned to return for lunch.
Ron and I walked at a brisk pace, past the JCB, which has finished the car park foundations and new piling.
Then it was quick march past the kiosk (open despite the dull weather)
and onto the beach, where Ron found yet another ball (tennis, this time).on the high-tide mark.
It started to drizzle, so, after a brief game of chase the ball, we turned back
towards the harbour entrance.
There we spotted MWNN walking along the top of the sea wall. We joined forces for a while, until Ron and I cracked on towards the cafe - and lunch.
When we drew level with the Smokehouse Restaurant, I decided to double-check that no dogs were allowed. There were no signs to that effect in the windows. I asked the fishmonger at the shop counter if we could take the dog into the restaurant. He replied 'of course'.
We waited for MWNN to catch up and gave him the good news. I've wanted to eat at the Smokehouse since they acquired an alcohol licence and started serving hot food. We hadn't booked but were shown to a table just inside the inner door,
The restaurant is now separated from the fish counter by inner glass walls and a door. There is a small bar area, in which drinks are prepared.
I had a glass of French Rose and MWNN had a pot of tea. MWNN opted for the home-batttered cod, and I had pan fried sea-bass.
By the time we were coming to the end of our excellent meal, the restaurant had filled. It has a reputation that places it as the number 2 out of 45 restaurants in Southwold. Booking is essential during the season and at weekends out of season.
