A Weekend Away

Ahoy there! This weekend we have been away for a little jaunt down to Devon to the coastal city and naval port of Plymouth. Remember last time we went we couldn't see anything because of thick fog? Well this time things were very different and we had non-stop sunshine - it was glorious. Deep blue skies, turquoise sea and verdant green hills meant that conditions were perfect for a spot of photography. It was wonderful to drink in the sea views, smell the salty air and just enjoy the wonderful brightness of it all.

I never tire of walking along the seafront looking across to Drake's Island and Plymouth Sound. Up on the hill to the right is the Royal Citadel, a large military fort.

This little ice cream kiosk overhangs the cliff below in a rather precarious-looking way. You can just see the lido below.

 

Only a few tiny wispy clouds were visible in the sky.



In the opposite direction the sea shimmered around the seafront's promenades and terraces.



On the Hoe itself is the lighthouse, Smeaton's Tower.



I love its fabulous red and white stripes against the deep blue sky, and its graceful shape.





Heading into the old part of Plymouth known as the Barbican, my eyes were drawn to the painted buildings in the pastel colours so often favoured by coastal towns.

Even heading into the city centre there was a reminder of the sea. I came across some people with little remote controlled sailing boats who were using the ornamental pond as a boating lake.

Back by the sea again, the water was still and glassy, reflecting the yachts moored in the marina.

Some of the little boats had sweet names like the Rachel-Anne.

On the seafront various boat trips advertised excursions to neighbouring islands, rivers and coastal villages. It all looked very appealing.



In the little harbour a beautiful ketch, the Irene, was moored, looking very sleek and graceful.



We wandered past in the evening and marveled at the beautiful polished woodwork.

From across the other side of the harbour the lights of the pubs and bars twinkled and made the scene look quite magical.

 We were only in Plymouth overnight, but it was long enough to feel that we'd had a little holiday. I grew up very near to the sea and although I love living in Somerset, I sometimes long for a bit of a salt breeze and some sea air. Our little visit to Plymouth has definitely put a spring in my step and blown away some cobwebs!

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 PS. Thank you, dear readers, for your kind comments on my finished projects in my last post - I know you all know how difficult it can be sometimes to keep going on a long-standing WIP and finish it. I am feeling greatly relieved!