Roy Matthews reports;- Tuesday May 28 th 14 club members and friends went on the Round Robin Bus, Boat and Train trip from Paignton organised by Chris Martin our Chairman, after doing a very successful similar trip last year.
On a damp morning we met up at Paignton bus station and took the bus to Totnes, having a one and a
half hour wait in Totnes we enjoyed a coffee and eats in Fullers Bakery before walking down to Steamer
Quay to board Cardiff Castle for an 11.45am departure. We still had light rain so most people chose to
travel under cover.
Despite the misty weather we were able to see Sharpham House and vineyard, Greenway House and
grounds, all the villages like Stoke Gabriel and Dittisham and enjoy much of the wildlife, a grey seal
snoozing on a submerged rock, canada geese, egrets and herons.
We left the boat in Dartmouth, still in light rain and most headed to The Royal Castle Hotel for a very
welcome lunch. The hotel was very busy but Chris had booked us a table for 15 as 3 people had driven
to Dartmouth to join us for the meal, luckily they were able to keep the table for us. We stayed in the
hotel until it was time to take the passenger ferry to Kingswear to catch the steam train, pulled by
Goliath, back to Paignton.
There are stunning views along the 25 minute ride but the weather did not allow us to appreciate them
properly.
All safely back in Paignton after a very enjoyable day – despite the weather. Thanks Chris.
Mandy Dore sent this photo of herself and writes:- “It was lovely to meet you all, such a good day despite the weather and brilliantly topped off by having Goliath to bring us back to Paignton!”
Paignton Probus Club 