Comments on: Garnsey’s Tower, Blackborough, Devon

By: Editor

Editor — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:55:51 +0000

In reply to Nick Addington. Hello Nick. Ah, this was a rare admission of defeat for me. My usual saviour, in the form of a local walking their dog, failed to appear. I must have been so close to it but just didn’t find it. Very pleased that you had more success!

By: Nick Addington

Nick Addington — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:39:12 +0000

With an hour or two of daylight left following an evening visit to the Wellington monument last weekend I spotted this intriguing tower on the OS map. Armed with no other info, drove through the winding lanes, found somewhere to park and headed into the woods. It’s certainly elusive! There are paths below on the steeply wooded slope, but how to get up to it? Eventually found a trail that seemed to be on the right contour and followed it to the spot. Quite atmospheric in its woodland clearing, even if it’s just a low stump now. Delighted to now discover your article and those wonderful images and photos – but to know there’s still some mystery as to its origins and builder. Thanks again for sharing your research.

By: Editor

Editor — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:42:58 +0000

In reply to Julia B.

Hello Julia. What a shame you didn’t run past as I was wandering round in circles. I had maps and the coordinates on my phone but still couldn’t find it – and there wasn’t a runner to dog-walker to be found in my moment of need.I’m very pleased to hear that you enjoyed learning more about the tower’s history.

By: Julia B

Julia B — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:34:31 +0000

Great to see pictures of the tower as it used to be! Good research. I found the tower remains by accident while out running one dimpsy day about 20 years ago, and was proper spooked to come across it so unexpectedly!
Now it’s a favourite destination on foot or cycling but even so, I’m never sure of finding it until it’s in front of me.

By: Editor

Editor — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 19:46:39 +0000

In reply to Bill Mason. Hello Bill. What a tempting offer - I will be in touch.

By: Editor

Editor — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 19:45:50 +0000

In reply to Mrs Barbara Howard. Thanks Barbara. You are so right! I had maps, co-ordinates etc and thought I was well-prepared. But no such luck! Happily a rare failure.

By: Mrs Barbara Howard

Mrs Barbara Howard — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 15:33:43 +0000

Isn’t it frustrating when you know there’s something there but you can’t find it?! It’s happened to me before now, on several occasions. But despite that, you tell a fascinating folly tale as usual. Thank you.

By: Bill Mason

Bill Mason — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:17:24 +0000

I so enjoy your postings, thank you.
Years ago I was living in England and started researching a book about follies.
It is going nowhere now, so if you would like, I would happily pass on my research.
Contact me direct on my email
Best
Bill

By: Editor

Editor — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 11:23:58 +0000

In reply to Sally Costen. Thank you Sally. I love the research and the rambling and it is very kind of you to show your appreciation.

By: Editor

Editor — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 11:22:51 +0000

In reply to Jane Padfield. Hello Jane. All ideas must be considered in the weird and wonderful world of follies and the stories that surround them! Thanks for getting in touch.