It’s been a busy year so far, working through the edits of my soon-to-be book. And while the edits are back with the publisher, the paints have been out. More on that another time, but just to say this summer weather has inspired a chain of thoughts that translate into 3 new canvasses.
With the UK slowly opening, people are starting to venture further afield. Here in Devon, a holiday hot spot, the beaches are busier than ever. So, it’s a case of finding places off the beaten track. But before the holiday flow arrived, we got out and about appreciating a few of the county’s well-loved treasures.
The South Devon coastal road is a favourite spot for me. Through Dawlish, home of the black swan…
To the historic town of Teignmouth, with big grey skies that cleared to give a clear sea view from Labrador Bay.
Then onto Babbacombe to the model village, a place I haven’t visited since I was less than ten years old. Started back in 1963, I was surprised to discover it didn’t make the ‘10 Miniature City Marvels Around the World’ list – maybe it’s a little too eclectic. It’s great fun, this varied, often tongue-in-cheek world, including traditional thatched cottages, the London Shard, Stonehenge, the Statue of Liberty (wasn’t expecting that!), a fire breathing dragon (definitely game of thrones), and a scene from The Matrix (which was confused with a Men in Black disco). The day was spent feeling like Gulliver in Gulliver’s Travels.
It was a day that ended in Torquay, with the sun shining brilliantly over the harbour.
From South to North, and we arrived in the harbour town of Bideford, home territory of Tarka the Otter. There were some unexpected sights to be found among the picturesque quay and quaint cobbled streets.
And to nearby Appledore, with a wonderfully colourful welcome, far-reaching sea views, and dreamy corners that make you wonder what it would be like living with the sea lapping over the wall of home.
Not forgetting inland, including quaint towns nestled in the folds of Dartmoor. Like Moretonhampstead, an arty little place that has been in my sights for a while. Centred around an enormous library (loved it!), and edged by a looming church fronted by a pride flag flapping in the wind, treasures can be found among the quirky narrow streets.
And finally, keeping out of the rain in the wildwood of Escot, where giant rhododendrons grow, and sculptures of red squirrels, peacocks and wild boar meet the real thing. Not to mention being cast back in time, immersed in a Saxon village.
I wonder what we might find another day…
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