Growing up in the Castle Rock Hotel: A memory of Mortehoe

Growing Up In The Castle Rock Hotel

A Memory of Mortehoe.

I grew up in Woolacombe and Mortehoe but my most vivid memories was living in the bungalow of Castle Rock, scrambling down the cliffs to Combesgate Beach with my surf board from Bert Yoe's. My parents, the Gandertons had bought the hotel after the war & worked like mad during the summer months, with lots of returning guests who often became good friends too. Many scenic walks on Morte Point sometimes in howling gales or warm sunshine but always with magnificent views. Even returning in 1994, everything looked the same, thanks mostly to the National Trust. Lots of lovely warm memories to enjoy now from my present home in sunny California! Jennifer

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Added 18 September 2017

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Jziesche…reading your post I was convinced it was mine. Even after mentioning your parents it wasn’t always crystal clear that I didn’t write it. I think my dad and uncle may have brought CRH from your parents? We moved back to the dreary Hertfordshire (better than most places though) whilst my uncles family remained. Our name is Billson. It may ring a bell? If I remember correctly our side of the family lived in the bungalow but I think I may be confused as we lived at the back (Mortehoe side) of the hotel with the walk in oculus bay window. I now have only memories of my family which can be hard when thinking back to such a beautiful building and location to spend two years growing up in. Nine Inch Nails were due to play in Cornwall last June and I even had a ticket. But the price of fuel meant I couldn’t go. I was planning a few days in Woolacombe/Mortehoe. Maybe look for a place to live? I miss Devon. It’s where my heart is.m

By Jamis Billson on Wed Sep 7th 2022, at 8:16 pm

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