On the journey back to Penryn, we stopped in Darmouth, Devon, set on the western bank of the estuary of the River Dart. It lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and South Ham District. The port was a sailing point for the Crusades of 1147 and 1190, and Warfleet Creek, close to Darmouth Castle, is supposed to be named for the vast fleets which assembled there. It was home to the Royal Navy from the reign of Edward III, a Plantagenet king, who ascended the throne at the age of 14 in 1327 until his death in 1377.
The earliest street in Dartmouth to be recorded by name (in the 13th century) is Smith Street. The town contains many medieval and Elizabeth streetscapes and is a patchwork of narrow lanes and stone staircases.
We stayed by the river during our short stop and visited the nearby streets. The weather did not cooperate!
May 25, 2014
Back in Penryn, and off to see Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII between 1327 and 1545 on the west side of the entrance to the River Fal, near Falmouth. St. Mawes Castle is on the east side. Fearing a surprise attack from the French and Spanish, urged by the Pope following the change of religion to enable Henry to divorce Queen Catherine of Aragon, Henry moved to fortify the Carrick Roads from an invasion. It's a small castle, but strong, in a good position and has seen many battles.
 |
| Scenes on our walk to Pendennis Castle |
 |
| Falmouth shipyards |
Back in town.... Parts of Penryn still has some charm reminiscent of the old days. And interesting and friendly people.
 |
| This man has constructed an amazing motorbike of sorts and is planning to ride from John O'Groats in the north of Scotland to Lands End in Cornwall. He's become quite a celebrity with his invention. |
  |
| This is Pamela, the owner of Sassi Hair Salon in Penryn shown above, who gave me a wonderful cut. She's been around the world on the cruise ships. A lovely person. |
No comments:
Post a Comment