25 June 2024 , 14:44
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Images show an abandoned house in a historical village that is tucked between the cliffs and the sea.
Nestled in the coves of south Devon is an abandoned house in the historical village — or what is left of it — called Hallsands.
In a precarious position between cliffs and the sea, the old village of Hallsands is closed off to the public but remains a marvel of the southwest. South Hams District Council established a viewing platform for eager tourists to see what remains of the village below.
After years of Government dredging of the shingle between Hallsands and neighbouring Beesands, the village became threatened and vulnerable. In 1900, the beach level began to fall and eventually, on the night of January 26 1917, Hallsands fell into the sea.
On the night of January 26 1917, Hallsands fell into the sea (devonlive.com)Miraculously no one was hurt, however, only one house wasn't lost to the sea. The one remaining house belonged to Elizabeth Prettyjohn — who stubbornly refused to leave, and lived there with her chickens until her death in 1964.
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During her life, she acted as a guide to the visitors who came over the years curious to see the remains of the village. Today her house is used as a summer holiday home.
For curious adventurers, there isn't much to see in Hallsands today. But, the surrounding area is scenic and coastal and there are places to stay in the area offering a beach-cum-countryside escape.
Secular Retreat is one of the gems of the area. Located between the resorts of Salcombe and Hallsands, Secular Retreat is the first permanent building by renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor in the UK. The building boasts magnificent views which can be enjoyed from bespoke armchairs facing towards the south Devon landscape.
Also nearby is the family-run Britannia at The Beach — a café serving fresh local seafood. With its historic fishing connections and rustic appeal, the café has now evolved into a much-loved local landmark.
Alternatively, there is The Cricket Inn. This multi-award-winning pub is located in the neighbouring seaside village of Beesands. The pub offers a seafood-inspired menu and also has seven newly refurbished bed and breakfast rooms.
Close by is also Start Point Lighthouse. Tours are available and take approximately 45 minutes, and admission costs £8.50 per adult.
It is certainly worth a visit if staying in the nearby resort town of Salcombe, which is close to the mouth of the Kingsbridge Estuary and is situated within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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