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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
National
Katie Oborn & Ellie Kendall

Village two hours from Bristol that is equal parts Devon and Cornwall

If you've ever been stuck for choice when it comes to British holiday destinations, you've no doubt wondered which is best - Devon or Cornwall? Well, one village near Plymouth - a place one would usually associate with being near the water yet having closer to a 'city vibe' - breaks the mould somewhat.

Offering a quiet respite which is tucked away from those bustling city-like areas, Turnchapel is described as a quaint village fringed by the sea, and a "piece of Cornwall in Devon", Plymouth Live reports. One resident, Dave Calderwood, has lived in Turnchapel for two years.

His home used to be a pub and some of the old signage is still visible to this day. He describes the village as being 'quite distinct' from the city, offering fantastic views.

Read more: Beautiful dog-friendly West Country beach is famed for its fish and chips

He says: “It’s a very strong community here, it’s almost like a bit of Cornwall in Devon. It’s quite distinct from Plymouth, it’s got its own character and of course you have a fantastic view.”

Turnchapel is also home to the award-winning Yacht Haven marina, offering annual and visitor berthing. Accessible from Plymouth by ferry, which costs £2.50 for a single crossing, it's then about half a mile's walk into the village along the South West Coast Path, which passes by the marina.

Dave Calderwood is a Turnchapel resident (Katie Oborn)

It's worth noting, if you're planning on travelling to the village on foot, that due to coastal erosion, pedestrians using this route will need to traverse up a steep hill and into the village from the road. The Coast Path is closed off due to a landslide which happened more than a year ago.

Fear not though, as driving into the village from Plymouth takes just 18 minutes and there's also the option of getting a bus from the city, too. And, when there, the village consists of brightly coloured terraced houses and two welcoming pubs.

Many years ago there was also a village shop, however this has long gone. It's thought the village of Turnchapel was developed in the 17th Century to house people working in the ship building yards. The area surrounding Turnchapel was formerly quarried for limestone.

Passing through the village will lead you to Turnchapel Wharf, where you'll find a cafe called The Guard Room. It boasts a sunny terrace, sea views and homemade cakes.

Despite being a rather tiny place, Turnchapel does have its fair share of holiday lets, however the sense of community here is a strong one. Locals gather in an area known as 'The Square', which is described by one lady as being where resident's meetings take place.

With a barbeque in an area that traps the sun, it's a place for villagers to gather together, socialise and share their views on important local issues.

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