Pause for Thought

Taking tender steps into March brings the promise of Spring, despite the rain, howling winds and tumultuous skies. And as lockdown persists, I remain bedded down with my work. Fortunately for me that is no bad thing. I’m as busy as ever with writing and painting, and with a new book on its way, time to regroup and work on creative ways to welcome the new arrival.

That said, once in a while I poke my head above the parapet, in anticipation of being able to explore beyond the usual. It may be a while before we can travel further afield, but I look forward to more day-tripping in the Devon county. Looking back on some photos from December, left me hankering to explore.

Some places on our doorstep are so familiar we forget to stop and look, yet they are pockets of Devon quaintness. A while ago, when looking for inspiration, a couple of places sprang to mind, both places we regularly drive past or through yet rarely stop to look. So, we packed a flask and headed out for a stroll around these towns and villages skirting the city.

Topsham Town

Positioned on the east side of the River Exe, our most regular sighting of the town is from across the river.

This photo of lovely Kate was taken in spring last year; a pitstop on our regular cycle route.

Once a thriving port, Topsham’s location overlooking the estuary is beautifully scenic, even in the throws of winter.

Away from the glorious views of the waterside, the quaint, historic town has a cosmopolitan feel, with distinctive buildings and an eclectic cluster of independent shops and eateries, edged by cobbled streets.

It is also on a cycle route connecting Exeter with the seaside town of Exmouth, but oh for those hills…

The village of Ide

In a valley south west of Exeter, lies the picturesque village of Ide. Winding its way through the village is the Alphinbrook, a tributary of the river Exe. With quaint thatched cottages and narrow lanes bordering the brook, there’s an olde-worlde feel that makes it easy to forget the closeness of Exeter.