A TOWN in Devon is home to some unique Dutch-inspired architecture that even makes it look like something straight from the Netherlands.
Topsham does have a quaint English look about it, but some buildings have Dutch flare – thanks to its rich maritime history.
Topsham has Dutch-inspired buildings throughout the town[/caption]
The town is known for its maritime history[/caption]
Local Devon expert Alex Gwilim from Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays said: “Topsham is home to some of the most unique buildings in Devon.
“The ‘Dutch Houses’ on The Strand are aptly named thanks to their curved gable ends and tall narrow stature, architectural features more commonly found in Holland than in the UK.”
On the surface, Topsham might not look particularly like Amsterdam, but if you delve deeper, there are obvious influences around the town.
Topsham was involved in the wool trade during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, when wool and cotton were exported to Holland.
The architecture was directly impacted because Dutch-made bricks were imported on ships returning to England.
These were then used along Topsham’s Strand, which features Dutch-influenced merchant houses.
These are tall buildings with Dutch gables – essentially the rounded pattern shape at the top of the houses.
A Merchant’s House that was built in 1688 has since been turned into a museum.
It’s described as being “one of the finest Dutch-influenced properties” on the Topsham Strand.
Like the city of Amsterdam, Topsham also has a very busy waterway full of narrowboats and smaller ones too.
A classic Dutch building trait is the gable ends on the roof[/caption]
You can even swim at the waterway at Topsham Lock which is permitted for wild swimming.
The town is also known for its antiques, and the largest in Topsham is the Antiques Centre.
Found on the quayside, it has an enormous collection of collectables and vintage items over 9000 square feet across three floors.
Something else to do in Topsham is the Goat Walk which is a well-known and scenic waterside path that forms part of the Exe Estuary Trail.
The walk is well-signposted and offers beautiful views over the estuary and birdwatching.
Just 15 minutes away is the city of Exeter, and for anyone seeking out beaches, travel south to Sandy Bay and Budleigh Salterton.
And hear from one writer who visited the English Riviera and found delicious seafood festivals and hidden beaches.
Plus, discover the ‘wonderfully unspoilt’ seaside town in Devon is one of the UK’s best hidden spots.
Sun Writer Cyann Fielding reveals what she makes of Topsham…
Cyann Fielding who hails from Devon gives her thoughts on Topsham…
TOPSHAM is rather like stepping into a village straight out of Harry Potter, with subtle Dutch influences.
History oozes from every corner of this charming town and as a result, it is the ultimate place to find some bargain antiques. Make sure to head to Quay Antiques – a vast warehouse with 65 antiques sellers spread across three floors.
Whether you are picking up a gift or looking for some unique decor for your home, it is bursting with exciting artefacts – many of which are reasonably priced.
Just across the way you’ll find a more modern homewares shop, CASA, which you will leave wanting to strip out your home and completely redecorate.
And don’t forget to have a Devonshire cream tea from one of the town’s cosy cafes.