After a good night’s sleep Viv provided a great breakfast, and all too soon it was time to leave.
We made our way into Portsmouth, parked the car, making our way to the port office to ‘check in’. And the cat was out the bag, Kevin found out where we were going!
A boat took us out into the Solent to stay on one of the Solent forts overnight. The sea was not too choppy but the disembarking from the boat was a challenge!
Once I was on terra firma I was ok and a glass of champagne steadied the nerves.
We had a wander before our tour and there are so many nooks and crannies.
There were about another 10-12 people staying and the staff were so friendly and helpful.
Kyle, the manager, gave an informative and funny tour pointing out all the historical elements about the 150 year old forts.
Built to repel the French they never a shot fired in anger!
Lunch was served and was delicious and we enjoyed the company of other guests either celebrating as we were or enjoying a gift.
Our room was ready so we ventured in. Wow!
Kevin decided it would be a good idea to dangle his legs out the window!
We next circumnavigated the building by going through the ‘bolt hole’. It was dark and damp and we saw no evidence of the ‘ghost’ that was seen on the ghost hunters tv programme! Thank goodness.
A trip to the hot pool next and a relax before getting ready for dinner.
The foghorn signalled the call to the victory bar and an amuse bouche of cauliflower veloute followed
After pleasant conversation we made our way to the officers mess and dinner was served:
Ham hock terrine, scallop, fillet beef and creme brûlée.
Absolutely delicious and they replaced my mash with cabbage as requested!
We enjoyed further convivial chatter, then made our way to the fire pit for rum and marshmallow toasting.
All too soon it was time to retire to our room to reflect on a fantastic day, in superb surroundings. Kevin loves all things nautical and yes he had an inkling of where he was going, and hopefully he has loved it! 
My little life 