FAME AND FORT

Whilst travelling in the West Country, we visited Dartmouth, home of the famous naval college. 

But Dartmouth is famous for other things too.  Apart from all the seafood, it is famous for its castle in one of the prettiest locations in England.

Like everywhere else in Dartmouth, the best way to get there is of course by boat.

And here it is, located right at the mouth to the harbour.

This is the famous mermaid's cottage.

And this is the church of St Petrox, which was there when the castle was built around it.  It claims to have been built in 594, though the earliest mention of it in documents is 1192.  Anyway - old.

The castle was built in the 14th century and has survived rather well.  It was the first castle to have a specially built tower (above the church) housing cannons specifically for sinking warships (which it also did rather well).  The view out to sea is a bit boring, but here's the view into Dartmouth harbour.  You might be able to make out the College on the hill to the left.

  

We were just in time to see the garrison have their lunch.

 

As you can see, they strive for authenticity.

 

On the walk back, we were struck by the unoriginal street names.

And of course the famous view of Kingswear on the other side of the river.

This is the famous trattoria of Alf Fresco (famous mostly for Sunday brunch, but you have to get there very early to get a seat.  Hmmm, perhaps it's really breakfast then.).

And this is the famous husband creche at The Dolphin.

But mostly Dartmouth is famous for just watching the boats.