Views of the MS Oldenburg approaching Ilfracombe Quay on an autumnal afternoon plus one of the harbour. Beautiful whatever the time of year and weather.

Posted via email from robertz
As we turn back the clocks for winter, in Ilfracombe many of the boats have been lifted out of the harbour on to the quay and harbour car parks to protect them from the ferocity of the stormy weather until next spring.

Boats lifted out of the harbour on to Ilfracombe quay
It’s also a sign that most of the holiday-makers have gone and the town is back in the hands of residents, who can enjoy its beauty in the winter months.
It’s not all peace and quiet though, as it’s the only time that many of those in the tourism industry have to enjoy themselves after spending the summer season working all hours of the day.

Ilfracombe quay in October 2008
It’s a wonderful time to enjoy the town and countryside, even when the sea and sky are grey, it’s raining and the wind is howling. Certainly beats the M25.
The fair has come to town . . . to Ilfracombe quay . . .

The funfair on Ilfracombe quay
After what has not been the sunniest of summers, it’s good to see the funfair . . .

The funfair on the quay at Ilfracombe
. . . and the sea so calm on a clear September evening.
What a glorious July day, just right for the first excursion of the pleasure steamer ‘Balmoral‘ from Ilfracombe.
There was quite a lot of activity out in the Bristol Channel: a grey warship . . .

The Balmoral passing a ship off Ilfracombe, Devon
. . . and a passing speedboat. There were also quite a few other boats in the harbour.

Speedboat passing Balmoral as she approaches Ilfracome quay, Devon
Eventually Balmoral docked to pick up passengers for its first cruise of the summer.

Blamoral docks at Ilfracombe quay, Devon
They certainly picked a fine day.
Just take a walk and see what you will find . . . up the steps from Hele Bay climbing Hillsborough . . .

Climbing the steps from Hele Bay up Hillsborough towards Ilfracombe
. . . the view from the top northeast towards Wales and Bristol . . .

Looking out over Hele Bay from Hillsborough, Ilfracombe, Devon
. . . up above bright blue and white . . .

Clouds, blues sky and sun in Ilfracombe, Devon
. . . out in the distance . . . more blue . . .

The serenity of Ilfracombe quay on Devon summer's day
. . . and boats . . .

Boating at Ilfracombe harbour and quay, Devon
. . . and beautifully clear water . . .

Clear waters off Larkstone Beach, Ilfracombe, Devon
. . . and neverending Sunday blues in Ilfracombe.