The Avon estuary is a quiet stretch of water, protected by a sand bar at the entrance which often creates disturbed water. So we launched from the sheltered quay at Bantham and paddled in a desultory way, swept up river by the powerful current of the spring tide.
The deserted lime kiln is a typical feature of the Devon estuaries. Many date from the Napoleonic wars when agricultural production was encouraged by the government. The rain-washed acid soils of the south west were sweetened by spreading lime. The coal and limestone were brought in by boat.
The tidal river continues 700 metres past Aveton Gifford until a weir stops further progress.
We dined on the river bank in the last of the sunlight, and on the turn of the tide.
tim P