The Tamar Valley and surrounding area
The Tamar Valley runs north from Plymouth Sound, forming
a natural barrier between Devon and Cornwall. A century ago the valley
was a centre of copper and tin mining, and today the ruins of this industrial
heritage can be explored in peace. The slopes of the valley provide sheltered
growing for soft fruits and apples, and flowers in spring. On the cornish
side lies medieval Cotehele
(NT), and on the banks of the Tavy lies the
home of Sir Francis Drake, at Buckland
Abbey (NT).
Upstream from Cotehele is the waterside village of Calstock, with its impressive viaduct,
and beyond, on the Devon bank, is the Victorian port at Morwellham
Quay,
which can be reached by ferry
from Calstock.
There are only a few bridges crossing the Tamar. At Saltash the Brunel
railway bridge and the modern road suspension bridge cross the river
together. Most of the other bridges are ancient passages, an example
is the thirteenth century Horsebridge, alongside which stands the equally
old Royal Inn, serving excellent refreshments.
The market town of Tavistock lies on the Tavy, and forms a gateway to
the upland expanses of Dartmoor. Here there are rugged tors, rushing
streams, quiet villages and far-reaching views across the valley.
Tavistock is the site of an ancient abbey, much of which has long vanished,
but remnants remain around Bedford Square, where a regular farmers'
market is held. Tavistock is a pleasant shopping centre with many traditional
shops, and it also offers leisure and entertainment at the
Wharf.
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