Calstock Viaduct.

A detour today took us to the magnificent Cotehele House near Saltash Cornwall.
Dating originally from about 1300, it was the second home of the Edgcumbe family. The main phases started by Sir Richard Edgcumbe 
1485 - 89.
Many years later was the first property to be accepted by the Treasury in payment of death duty, and now a National Trust property.
The buildings are as they were in the 16th century.
Today they were holding an Apple Festival.The orchard was planted in 2008 with over 250 apple trees mainly West Country varieties.
We watched a demonstration of the cider press, and had an apple tasting.
Our favourite eating apple variety was Tregony.  Quite sharp, crisp and juicy so we bought a bag.
As we were walking back to the house the heavens  opened, and we found shelter under an apple tree.
Fortunately only a shower.
We had a walk ( very steep!) down to the quay on the River Tamar to see the fully restored Ketch - rigged Tamar sailing barge.
Unfortunately they had stripped it of all the sails, rigging and masts as it is being restored again. Disappointing , but we did enjoy watching some ladies setting off in a gig boat. ( see collage) and had a coffee sat out in the sunshine.
Although we really enjoyed the house and I took many photos,
 ( see collage)  I decided to use  my photo of the view from the terrace as my main blip.
This is of the fabulous Calstock  railway viaduct over the River Tamar.
Completed in 1908 and made of 11,148 precast concrete blocks. it has twelve arches. 120 ft high, and the arches are 60ft wide.
Would like to take a closer look another time.

We carried on down to the far South West. Started raining when we reached Bodmin, and was very misty when we reached Penzance.
Called at Sainsburys and then drove through Marazion. First time we have arrived here, and not been able to see St Michaels Mount!

However  once again a  very warm welcome from Carol and Graham.
Always a great welcome pack, plus butter, milk and bacon in the fridge and today instead of daffodils we have a huge vase of sunflowers.  ( see extra)
Hope this isn't going to be the only sun we get this holiday!!