Holdstrong

Settlement in Devon West Devon

England

Holdstrong

Bridge over the River Lew This bridge over the River Lew is near the Dower House <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/5723279">SX4686 : Lewtrenchard: Dower House at Lew Mill</a>. There used to be a cut benchmark on the left hand (NE) parapet, but the parapet has been replaced -- perhaps washed away in a flood sometime? <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.bench-marks.org.uk/bm160323" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.bench-marks.org.uk/bm160323">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Bridge over the River Lew Credit: Neville Goodman

Holdstrong is a picturesque village located in the county of Devon, England. Situated amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, the village is known for its idyllic setting and tranquil atmosphere. With a population of around 1,500 residents, Holdstrong offers a close-knit community feel and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The village is characterized by its charming blend of traditional and modern architecture. Quaint thatched cottages, stone houses, and timber-framed buildings can be seen alongside newer developments, creating a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary living. The local church, St. Mary's, is a prominent landmark, dating back several centuries and showcasing stunning architectural features.

Holdstrong boasts a range of amenities to cater to its residents and visitors. There is a well-stocked village shop, a cozy pub serving delicious local fare, and a primary school providing education to the local children. The village also benefits from a vibrant community center, hosting various events and activities throughout the year.

Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Holdstrong offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Dartmoor National Park provides extensive trails for hiking and cycling, with breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and cascading streams. Additionally, the village is within close proximity to the stunning Devon coastline, offering picturesque beaches and charming seaside towns to explore.

Holdstrong truly embodies the quintessential English village, with its scenic landscapes, friendly community, and a rich heritage that is evident in its architecture and traditions. It is a place of charm and tranquility, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of rural England.

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Holdstrong Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.651441/-4.1426386 or Grid Reference SX4885. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bridge over the River Lew

This bridge over the River Lew is near the Dower House SX4686 : Lewtrenchard: Dower House at Lew Mill. There used to be a cut benchmark on the left hand (NE) parapet, but the parapet has been replaced -- perhaps washed away in a flood sometime? Link

Neville Goodman

A very muddy field entrance

The view here is through the gate into the field near Waddlestone - the rising ground and trees are in SX4785. There is a clear, cut benchmark about one third of the way up what used to be the gatepost (which is slate). As is common around here, the stone post has been replaced by timber. Many of the stone posts, carrying benchmarks, have disappeared. Fortunately, we did not have to go through the gate. Link

Neville Goodman

Lewtrenchard: Dower House at Lew Mill

Martin Bodman

Lewtrenchard: Lew Mill

Buildings, formerly a water mill

Martin Bodman

Old Direction Sign - Signpost by Hedge Cross, Bridestowe parish

Fir cone finial - 3 arms; Devon compass points by the UC road, in parish of Bridestowe (West Devon District), Hedge Cross, under trees. Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: DV_SX4885

Alan Rosevear

A mysterious circle in a wall

The 1:25000 OS map clearly shows a circular enclosure here. There is little sign of it on the ground, just a slightly raised circular area of field, which is very difficult to show in a photograph.

Neville Goodman

Benchmark on a gatepost

This area has many granite gateposts, and a number of them hold cut benchmarks. This one is on the left hand post, just below the vegetation SX4885 : Benchmark on a granite gatepost. Often, one has to do a good deal of gardening to find the benchmarks, but this one was fairly obvious.

Neville Goodman

Benchmark on a granite gatepost

The OS description is GTP 3.0M SW HEDGE JUNC W SIDE RD NE FACE. The vegetation needed a bit of attention for the benchmark to be seen properly SX4885 : Benchmark on a gatepost.

Neville Goodman

Benchmark right on the northern edge

There is a cut benchmark SX4885 : A camouflaged benchmark on the left-hand gatepost, just as one comes off Galford Down. According to the OS database, its coordinate is SX 4876 8599, so just a little bit further north and it would have been in the next square north. Fortunately, the benchmark was on the south face of the post, so I was able to stand in the square to show the mark's surroundings.

Neville Goodman

A camouflaged benchmark

Sometimes, one spots benchmarks without knowing they are there. One gets used to walking past houses and gateposts and looking a metre or so off the ground on corners. This one is not so obvious because of the large feldspar crystals in the granite and, I suspect, the years of ivy cladding SX4885 : Benchmark right on the northern edge. The OS description is GTP HEDGE JUNC W SIDE RD S FACE.

Neville Goodman