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Slapton
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The village of Slapton is high on a hill above the long
shingle beach of Slapton Sands. The beach is quiet now, but in 1944
it was a beehive of activity as US Army forces used it as a training
ground in preparation for the D-Day landings in Normandy. Slapton Sands
was chosen for the exercises because of its similarity to the beaches
in Normandy where the assault was due to take place.
In a tragic accident during the training, over 800 soldiers
lost their lives at sea off Slapton, and their memory is preserved in
a memorial column erected by the US at the north end of the beach.
Inland
of the shingle is the wetland nature reserve of Slapton Ley, the largest
natural freshwater lake in the west of England. The Slapton Ley Field
Studies Centre manages the nature reserve and provides a venue to study
and preserve the wetland environment of the Ley. The Ley is a haven
for birdwatchers, and for those who simply enjoy lovely countryside
walks along this stretch of
Slapton itself is a pleasing mix of older cottages grouped
about winding lanes, and newer houses looking out over the sea. There
are several restaurants, shops, and pubs, including the Tower Inn, which
sits cosily beneath the striking ruins of a tall, square tower, the
only remaining part of a college of chantry priests established in 1373.
The remainder of the college buildings were destroyed in the Dissolution
of the Monasteries, but the tower remains to add a melancholy touch
of history to this quiet Devon village.

© David Ross and Britain Express
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Accommodation
| Devon |
Coral Cottage
Stoke Fleming
Self catering cottage
This cottage offers 1 double bedroom, 1 twin bedroom, bathroom with shower over bath, lounge with wood burner and fully equipped kitchen/diner.
Pets welcome but not … more >>
Sleeps 5
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| Devon |
Pumphouse Cottage
Uffculme
Self catering cottage
Pumphouse Cottage offers 3 bedrooms (1 Double, 1 Single, 1 Twin), family bathroom, cloakroom, lounge, dining room, kitchen, garden, patio. more >>
Sleeps 5
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| Plymouth (Hotel) |
Moorland Links Hotel
The Moorland Links Hotel is a beautifully appointed country style hotel situated within Dartmoor National Park, just 6 miles from Plymouth and set in 9 acres of gardens with enchanting views across the Tamar Valley. Facilities include a restaurant and lovely gardens whilst the Links Golf Course is just a … more >>
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| Plymouth (Hotel) |
Quality Hotel Plymouth
The Quality Hotel Plymouth offers superb uninterrupted sea views from its position on the crest of Plymouth Hoe. Its central location offers easy access to the city?s excellent shopping facilities. Couple this with the fully serviced bar, restaurant and breathtaking scenery and you have the perfect base from which to … more >>
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