Authored by Mrs. Ka
te Singlehurst
For his 60th birthday in June, my husband, a steam railway enthusiast, opted for a holiday in Devon - a beautiful county but, more importantly on this occasion, one that bristles with preserved railways. We booked a stylish, modern apartment in Linden Court, Brixham. It was ideal for two, with fabulous panoramic views from the lounge over the town, the sea and the harbour. We woke up bright and early on his big day. The morning sun shimmered across the water, enticing us out onto the balcony for breakfast.
Having opened the cards and presents, we set off to Kingswear in time to board the 11.15am steam train to Paignton. We s
ettled down in the Devon Belle observation car to enjoy the half-hour journey to our destination. Wisps of steam floated across our views, first of the River Dart and, as we swept towards the coast, of rocky coves and broad sandy bays. There was just time for a light snack before we made the return journey, chuffing our way back to Kingswear under bright cloudless skies. We loitered on the platform, savouring the scene and the smells as the locomotive prepared to make another run. We watched as it left the station and ran beside the river before becoming a steamy speck in the distance.
At last, we reluctantly headed for the passenger ferry to take us across the river to Dartmouth. In the Tourist Information Centre we were surprised to encounter yet more steam - one of the original early engines, invented by Thomas Newcomen, and used to pump water out of the Cornish tin mines. A town trail then led us on an amble through Dartmouth, passing the grand houses of former sea captains and quaint t
imber-framed medieval buildings. As the clock struck 2.30pm we were ready for afternoon tea - a Devon cream tea! In the Singing Kettle tearooms we had such a treat. We could not have chosen a better place. Fresh scones, clotted cream and jam, presented on a sparking glass cake stand and decorated with fresh strawberries. The tea came in Georgian-style silver teapots, together with a timer to ensure a perfectly timed brew and a strainer to catch the leaves. Heaven!
Continuing the town trail, we strolled along to Baynard's Cove where a plaque marks the place where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail in the Mayflower for their new life in America. We sat on a nearby seat, soaking up the late afternoon sun and watched the world go by. The passenger and car ferries plied to and fro and small pleasure craft sailed up and down the river. A perfect Devon scene and a fitting close to a memorable 60th birthday.
Kate Singlehurst
March 2010