Chapter 3
The Murder on the Links
Today you will be met by Miss Lemon as we explore Churston – the setting of the murder of Sir Carmichael Clarke in “The ABC Murders”. An inspiring walk where you will hear how Poirot and Hastings took the overnight train from Paddington to Churston Station and what happened next …
2 Guests - please ask about additional guests
7 Days a Week: 9am to 5pm
Full Day Excursion
From £150 for Two People
Details & Itinerary
See the church of St Mary the Virgin, the local church where Agatha Christie worshipped regularly. In fact, she donated the royalties from a Miss Marple short story “Greenshaw’s Folly” to pay for the stained-glass window in the church, a must see on our tour. Here we continue in the footsteps of Poirot and Hastings as we cross the golf links and along the winding path to Elberry Cove, with beautiful views across the English Riviera.
Agatha Christie wrote “Suddenly, we came out on a grassy ridge overlooking the sea and a beach of glistening white stones. All around dark green trees ran down to the sea. It was an enchanting spot – white, deep green and sapphire blue.” This was one of Agatha’s favourite bathing spots and now could be the perfect time for you to take an accompanied sea swim. We can provide you with changing robes and sea swimming equipment.
If you so desire, we can arrange a picnic on the beach and perhaps a boat trip back to Torquay! Or if time permits, we can visit nearby Brixham, England’s busiest fishing port.
Pricing
- Price from £150 for two people
- Includes Miss Lemon guide
- Chauffeur service additional price on application
- Refreshments and meals not included
- Boat trip price on application.
Schedule
What You Should Bring
Best Times for This Excursion
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you collect me from an airport or railway station?
Yes absolutely, in fact we would love to do so, as it gives us chance to get to know each other before our wonderful custom days out.
Do you mix groups of travellers?
No, this is very much a private tour, custom made and tailored for single or duo travellers. We want you to write your own travel story and so exclusivity is really important to us.
Can I bring a dog?
Well behaved dogs are welcome on walks, but unfortunately, we can’t transport them in our own vehicle. Some venues and attractions also do not allow dogs (other than guide dogs), so please do chat to us before booking with English Riviera Custom Tours.
Can you arrange my accommodation?
While we ask you to book directly, we are very happy to offer guidance and suggestions using our extensive local knowledge. We also work closely with some providers and ask you mention English Riviera Custom Tours at the time of booking, to ensure you receive any preferential rates.
Can I book all year round?
Absolutely! The English Riviera has a mild climate and benefits from some of the best weather anywhere in the UK. There are some attractions and venues that operate with more opening times through the high season, but we are an all year round destination and welcome guests throughout the year.
I am thinking of hiring a car, can you help me with that?
We can certainly provide information for local car hire.
Do I need special walking clothes and equipment?
While we say no, obviously we ask you to consider your footwear for our lovely walks. The English Riviera coastline is stunning and every opportunity to see crystal clear waters and our rich geological landscape cannot be missed. So comfortable and appropriate clothing is essential. We can provide walking poles if needed. The Dartmoor chapter is probably the most important to consider layers of clothing, as it can change so quickly on the rugged moors.
Do I need to be a very good walker?
For most of our walks, no. We consider all the practical elements (including toilet stops) and terrain and so will assess your booked tours in advance for you. Some of the coastal walks have some undulating terrain and so a reasonable level of walking ability is needed. If you are unsure before choosing your custom tour, please ask.
I am driving to the area, what are the roads like and the parking?
Devon has more roads than any other UK county ( fun fact!) and while we have plenty of great major roads, some of our country roads can be a little challenging for first time users. Reversing skills need to be honed! Greenway House only allows prebooked parking – but all other attractions here on the English Riviera have good parking facilities. But do not worry, Miss Lemon will ensure you have all the info you require for each adventure.
What’s the weather like?
Well everyone knows we British are obsessed with the weather, so Miss Lemon will keep you updated on whether you need your suncream or your winter woollies, so do not fear! After all, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!
I’ve heard of wild swimming, what is it?
Really it is just a posh name for sea swimming, but we do take it very seriously here on the English Riviera. Both Miss Lemons are seasoned all year round swimmers and so are very safety conscious and aware of the power of the sea. But if you’d like to give it a go, we suggest a sunrise swim for the most perfect start to the day. Let us custom make your day and maybe add a swim every morning – you might just love it!
I would love to find some great eateries, can you help me with this?
Definitely! We are happy to make bookings and recommendations and have some really great places to eat on the English Riviera. There really is something for everyone and we might even share some of our best kept secrets!
Have you got a question we haven’t thought of? Please drop us a note and ask us, Miss Lemon is here to take care of your every need.