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As every student of geography will know, the River Tamar marks the border between the Duchy of Cornwall and the County of Devon for its entire length, apart from a few mysterious squiggles at the northern end. The river flows for 61 miles and the two southern-most crossings between Saltash and Plymouth are Brunel's famous Royal Albert railway bridge (1859) and the Tamar Road Bridge (1961). Traditionally, the next bridge upstream has been the long established Gunnislake crossing, since around 1520.
Between these bridging points, the lofty Calstock railway viaduct was opened in 1907 and is still in use today on the Tamar Valley Line. The border is considered by Cornishmen to be a much more significant affair than any ordinary county boundary. Cornish folk talk about 'Going to England' or 'Going up country', when planning a visit to Devon.
We recently paid a visit to Cothele, just half an hour from Cider Cottage. This fifteenth century Tudor house is well restored and looked after by the National Trust. And Cothele Quay has a delightfully timeless feel to it, looking across the mighty border to Devon, with the sailing barge Shamrock moored near the limekilns. Calstock viaduct is visible from the gardens and this magical place is well worth a visit.
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 A selection of handmade Cornish Pasties for judging. Perhaps the best country show in Cornwall, the Liskeard Show was held on 8th September in glorious weather. Originally planned for July, the event was postponed because of waterlogged fields following a long period of rain. What an inspired decision to defer it to this weekend. It was well supported with country crafts, animals, tractors and all manner of trade stalls and food and produce for sale. This was our first visit to the Show and it was good to meet friends and make new acquaintances. After just over a year, it really feels that we belong to Liskeard. And, the next day Peter popped down to Menheniot to photograph the Royal Duchy steaming past en route from Bristol to Par. This steam excursion was hauled by Battle of Britain locomotive 'Tangmere' and running bang on time!
 'Tangmere' steaming towards Liskeard with the Royal Duchy. |
New AuthorIn Feb 2021 Keith and Karen Burden took ownership of Cider Cottage whilst Lynn and Peter the previous owners moved closer to the sea to explore and enjoy more of a coastal life. Archives
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