Last weekend we went to stay with some friends who have just moved into the Weymouth area. On Friday the weather was glorious and for the those of you that know the area we started a 6 mile walk in the picturesque village of Sutton Poyntz. Walked up the Ridgeway and above the White Horse with fabulous views towards Portland to the west and Purbeck to the east. Then down into Osmington and had lunch at the wonderful Smugglers Inn at Osmington Mills (recommended.) Then walked back along the coastal path to Weymouth via Bowleaze Cove. We loved it so much we are seriously considering moving here.

We spent most of August in Italy and contrasted the pub grub with what was on offer in Italy. Italian is perhaps my favourite food but not for the first time there I found the choice very restrictive. The menus in all the restaurants was much the same. Mostly fish which I love but got bored with and perhaps a beef or venison dish. One night we were up in the hills and my limited Italian convinced me mixed grill was on offer. Very disappointed when my plate of cold Italian meats arrived.

Four of us ate at the Smugglers and between us we had lamb (bl00dy marvellous) pork, chicken and fish in various cuisines from many different countries. My sticky toffee pud and ice cream mmmm.

We may knock our cooking but in terms of variety we are very lucky.