Clovelly,
with its steep cobbled streets is like stepping back in a
time warp. The picturesque cottages and tea rooms, small garden
courtyards and well kept properties are a credit to all who live and
work there. The scenery is breathtaking and a word of warning for the
less agile amongst us - the streets are very steep indeed and its a
long walk back up. Be prepared to take your time here. In all honesty,
it shouldn't be rushed anyway.
Donkey's
used to be used to move goods around the village but these
days sledges are used. The roads are far too narrow and steep for any
motor vehicle although there is now a back road and a landrover service
to take those exhausted tourists back up to the top - for a fee of
course. Children can take donkey rides near the visitor centre and main
car park.
The
fishing quay can
trace its origins back to the 14th century as do many of the cottages
and buildings in Clovelly. This is a working fishing village and whilst
much of the income may now be derived from tourism, fishing still takes
place here. In common with much of this coastline smuggling and
shipwrecks were common place.
Clovelly
is really
very unique. The village of Clovelly is still owned by one family, a
tradition that goes back to the Norman Conquest. No trip round Clovelly
is complete without a good look round the visitor centre and it is one
of those places that should not be rushed. Allow at least half a day to
explore this place fully and if time allows spend a whole day here. It
really is a treat.
