July 1st was our Thursday to visit Plymouth and see where the Pilgrims boarded the Mayflower to the New World. What a step back in history just to think these are the same steps that Christopher Columbus and all of those faithful followers walked to board the Mayflower. It is truly a moving moment.
Larry and Mary Anne at the Mayflower Memorial Steps in Plymouth
Plymouth's Mayflower StepsWe saw the Royal Air Force Memorial across from the Citadel on the bay.
Memorial to the Royal Air Force
At Plymouth Hoe at the end of our walk, we climbed the stairs of the Smeaton Tower, the fabulous lighthouse that still has the original candelabra fixture used. Quite a trip up those narrow winding staircases. Beautiful view from the top.
Smeaton Tower Lighthouse
Checking out the candelabra!
Leaving Portsmouth, Ray and Sandra had a treat waiting for us in Yealmpton. We were to have our Devon Cream Tea at the Kitley House on the 600 acre Estate. It is a grand old home where there are over-night lodgings and wedding facilities as well. Devon Cream Tea is served for a few hours every afternoon. Ray thought we should order the middle choice which was named "All Singing, All Dancing" Devon Cream Tea. What a delightful treat! We dare to say that no other Cream Tea can hold a candle to the Kitley House. The service was delivered ... Cream and Jams, Strawberries and two types of Scones; my mouth waters as I type this! The other 3-tier tray was fresh chips with afternoon tea sandwiches made of Salmon, watercress, and cucumbers with a smidgen of dressing. Oh so Heavenly!
Leaving Portsmouth, Ray and Sandra had a treat waiting for us in Yealmpton. We were to have our Devon Cream Tea at the Kitley House on the 600 acre Estate. It is a grand old home where there are over-night lodgings and wedding facilities as well. Devon Cream Tea is served for a few hours every afternoon. Ray thought we should order the middle choice which was named "All Singing, All Dancing" Devon Cream Tea. What a delightful treat! We dare to say that no other Cream Tea can hold a candle to the Kitley House. The service was delivered ... Cream and Jams, Strawberries and two types of Scones; my mouth waters as I type this! The other 3-tier tray was fresh chips with afternoon tea sandwiches made of Salmon, watercress, and cucumbers with a smidgen of dressing. Oh so Heavenly!
The Kitley House itself dates back to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and built during the reign of the Tudor Kings of England, Henry VII (1457-1509). In the house is where the nursery rhyme "Old Mother Hubbard" was written.
The Kitley House
At the staircase in the Kitley House
The Grand Magnificent Staircase is all 18th century oak carpentry with hanging balusters, three to each step, two of them spiral and one fluted.
The Grand Magnificent Staircase is all 18th century oak carpentry with hanging balusters, three to each step, two of them spiral and one fluted.
Ray, Sandra, Mary Anne & Larry on the grand staircase in the Kitley House.
After our magnificent Devon Cream Tea we had to leave (even though we could have enjoyed it all day!) and we headed to Torcross. Here is a memorial to 946 American Servicemen who were killed preparing for D-Day. This was covered up for many years until a thorough investigation dug up the tanks that were buried to hide the fact that these devoted young soldiers did not lose their lives in battle, but in preparation for battle. Very moving.
After our magnificent Devon Cream Tea we had to leave (even though we could have enjoyed it all day!) and we headed to Torcross. Here is a memorial to 946 American Servicemen who were killed preparing for D-Day. This was covered up for many years until a thorough investigation dug up the tanks that were buried to hide the fact that these devoted young soldiers did not lose their lives in battle, but in preparation for battle. Very moving.
We continued to Slapton where the inlet that is divided by a small strip of land has fresh water on one side and salt water on the other side.
We ended our day of travel in Dartmouth where the Royal Naval Academy resides. The current Princes of England including the two future Kings (Charles & William) have all attending the Naval Academy.
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