Place Name

Pennycomequick Roundabout, Devon, England

Where the Roundabouts Spin and the Saucy Name Confounds!

Introduction:

Welcome to the land of Pennycomequick Roundabout, where the name alone is enough to make you giggle like a schoolchild who just heard a cheeky joke. Seriously, Pennycomequick? It sounds like a whimsical character from a children’s book or perhaps a particularly enthusiastic squirrel who just found a stash of acorns. One can only imagine the local council sitting around a table, tossing around names like “Speedy McRoundabout” and “Whirlwind Junction,” before settling on this gem. Speculation runs wild—was it named after a local market vendor who was always in a rush? Or perhaps it’s a secret code for “I’m late for tea!” Whatever the origin, it’s a name that certainly makes you pause and chuckle.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

Penny – A term that evokes thoughts of coins, thriftiness, or perhaps a penny-farthing bicycle ride through the countryside. It could suggest a local market where you could buy a sweet treat for just a penny—if only those days were still around!

Comequick – Now here’s where it gets interesting. “Comequick” sounds like something a beleaguered parent would shout when dinner is ready, or maybe a friendly invitation from a local to join them in a pint at the pub. It adds a sense of urgency, as if the roundabout itself is impatiently beckoning you to take a spin.

Together, they form a name that makes visitors pause before saying it aloud, wondering if they should be laughing or scratching their heads in confusion.

Historical Context:

The earliest known usage of the name Pennycomequick is as elusive as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Some suggest it dates back to the 19th century, while others believe it could be rooted in older, perhaps even Celtic, traditions. Was it a mistake? A local tradition? Or perhaps a dramatic attempt at geographic branding? Whatever the case, Pennycomequick Roundabout ensures that travellers arrive ready to speculate on whether logic was ever involved. One thing is for sure: if you’re looking for a place that will leave you scratching your head, you’ve found it!

Points of Interest:

If you’re in the area, be sure to check out:

• Plymouth Hoe – This iconic landmark offers stunning views of Plymouth Sound and is home to the famous Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll, and you might even catch a glimpse of a seagull trying to steal your chips.

• Royal William Yard – A historic naval victualling yard turned trendy waterfront destination. With its stylish restaurants and shops, it’s a great place to grab a bite while pretending you’re a sailor on shore leave.

• Mayflower Steps – A piece of history where the Pilgrims set sail for the New World in 1620. Stand here and ponder the great adventures of the past or just take a selfie with the steps—because, let’s be honest, that’s what we all do now.

• Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park – Just a stone’s throw from the roundabout, this stunning estate boasts beautiful gardens and a glimpse into the lives of the aristocracy. It’s like Downton Abbey, but with fewer scandals and more squirrels.

• The Barbican – This historic area is packed with narrow, cobbled streets, shops, and galleries. It’s the perfect place to get lost for a few hours, whether you’re hunting for art or just trying to find your way back to the roundabout.

Notable Figures:

Famous people who have been directly associated with Pennycomequick or Plymouth include:

• Sir Francis Drake – The famous sea captain and navigator was born in Tavistock, just a hop, skip, and a jump from Pennycomequick. He’s known for circumnavigating the globe and for being quite the thorn in the side of the Spanish Armada.

• Charles Babbage – Often referred to as the “father of the computer,” Babbage was born in London but spent significant time in Devon. His genius is a reminder that even in the 19th century, people were trying to figure out how to make life easier—like avoiding roundabouts altogether.

• Mary Shelley – The author of “Frankenstein” spent time in Plymouth and is a testament to the creative spirit of the area. Who knew that the birthplace of a monster could also be home to a roundabout with a name like Pennycomequick?

• David Icke – The controversial figure and conspiracy theorist was born in Leicester but has made his home in the West Country. He’s known for his outlandish theories, which might make you wonder if he’s ever taken a spin around Pennycomequick.

• J.K. Rowling – Though not directly linked to Pennycomequick, the beloved author of the Harry Potter series has connections to the West Country. Perhaps if Harry had taken a detour through Plymouth, he would have found himself on this roundabout!

Conclusion:

So, next time you find yourself at Pennycomequick Roundabout, take a moment to admire how geography refuses to follow common sense—while questioning whether history really meant for this name to stick.

And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not check iron man over to www.strangeplacenames.com for more delightful and ridiculous place names?

Because let’s face it, the UK and Ireland are heaving with names that are just begging for a chuckle or two. Remember, it’s not just a roundabout; it’s an adventure waiting to be spun!

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