Place Name

Row Moor Brake, Devon, England

Where the Trees Move to get some Cake

down at Row Moor Brake!

Introduction:

Ah, Row Moor Brake! A name that sounds like a character from a Shakespearean play who’s had one too many pints at the local pub.

This delightful spot in Devon has a name that begs the question: what on earth were they thinking? I mean, if you were trying to sell a location, would you go with “Row Moor Brake”? It sounds like a mix-up between a rural retreat and a car malfunction. But fear not, dear reader; we’re here to unravel the delightful absurdity behind this name and explore the charming quirks of the area.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

Row – This could refer to a row of something, perhaps trees, cows, or even disgruntled locals queuing for the best pasties in town. It gives a sense of order, which is quite ironic given the chaos of rural life!

Moor – Ah, the moor! A vast expanse of land that’s both enchanting and slightly eerie, where you can lose your way and your sanity all at once. It’s a nod to the wild and rugged beauty of Devon, where nature reigns supreme.

Brake – Now we enter the realm of intrigue. A brake is often a wooded area, but it also conjures images of slamming the brakes on a car while trying to navigate the winding lanes of Devon.

Together, they form a name that makes visitors pause before saying it aloud, usually followed by a chuckle.

Historical Context:

The origins of the name Row Moor Brake are as tangled as the brambles that line the area. Some say it dates back to the medieval period when locals decided to name places based on their most prominent features—like the time someone thought it would be clever to name a pub “The Drunken Duck.” Others suggest it might have been a miscommunication at a local council meeting, resulting in a name that nobody could quite remember how to spell.

Regardless, Row Moor Brake ensures that travellers arrive ready to speculate on whether logic was ever involved.

Points of Interest:

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

• East Leigh Church – This quaint little church is a testament to Devon’s rich history and offers a peaceful spot for reflection (or a good old-fashioned gossip).

• Crediton Parish Church – Known for its stunning architecture and historical significance, this church is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by local lore.

• Exeter Canal – A lovely stretch of waterway perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Just watch out for the ducks; they have a reputation for being quite sassy!

• Devon Great Consols – The site of an old copper mine, this place is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into the industrial past of Devon. Don’t forget your hard hat!

• The Old Fire Station – Now a vibrant community hub, this former fire station is a great place to grab a coffee and enjoy local art while pondering the mysteries of Row Moor Brake.

Notable Figures:

Famous people who have been directly associated with Row Moor Brake or Devon include:

• Samuel Taylor Coleridge – The renowned poet spent time in Devon and drew inspiration from its natural beauty, which surely includes the moors.

• Richard Trevithick – The inventor of the steam locomotive hailed from Cornwall, but his innovations had a significant impact on the entire region, including Devon.

• Agatha Christie – The queen of crime fiction was born in Torquay, not far from Row Moor Brake, and her works continue to intrigue readers worldwide.

• John Dyer – A poet and painter, Dyer was known for his works that celebrated the beauty of the Devon landscape, perhaps inspired by the very moors he roamed.

• Sir Francis Drake – The famous sea captain and explorer was born in Tavistock, Devon, and his adventurous spirit is still celebrated in the region.

Conclusion:

So, next time you find yourself at Row Moor Brake, 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 still scratching your head over the name, just remember it’s all part of the charm of Devon.

For more strange place names, make sure to I-spy at www.strangeplacenames.com - because the UK & Ireland are jammed and crammed with places that sound like they were named by a committee of deranged Locals!

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