Place Name

Westward Ho!, Devon, England

Where the Sea Meets the Scone

Introduction:

Westward Ho! A name that sounds like a pirate's rallying cry, or perhaps a rather enthusiastic shout from a local trying to catch the attention of a seagull.

This charming coastal village in Devon has a name that can leave even the most seasoned traveller scratching their head.

The absurdity of its moniker is matched only by the delightful experiences awaiting those who venture to this seaside gem. But how did Westward Ho! come to be? And what on earth were they thinking when they named it? Let’s dive into the deep end of the name pool and see what we can dredge up.

Legend has it that the name originated from Charles Kingsley’s novel, "Westward Ho!", published in 1855. Yes, folks, it was a literary shout-out that somehow turned into a geographical reality. Picture a local council meeting where someone suggested, "Why don’t we just name it after a book? That’ll do the trick!" And thus, the village was born, with a name that’s as quirky as the locals who inhabit it.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

Westward – This part of the name is straightforward enough. It indicates direction, which is handy if you’re trying to find your way to the beach or the nearest fish and chip shop. But it also suggests a sense of adventure, as if the village is beckoning you to explore the wild, untamed west.

Ho! – Now, here’s where things get interesting. "Ho!" is an exclamation, often associated with excitement or surprise. One can only imagine the delightful confusion it causes when visitors are trying to ask for directions. “Excuse me, how do I get to Westward Ho?!” “Oh, just head down that way, ho!” It adds a touch of whimsy to the name, transforming it from a simple geographical label into a playful invitation.

Together, they form a name that makes visitors pause before saying it aloud. It’s a conversation starter, an icebreaker, and a source of endless amusement.

Historical Context:

The earliest known usage of "Westward Ho!" can be traced back to Kingsley’s novel, but the village itself has a history that stretches back much further. Originally, the area was known for its fishing and agriculture, with the local economy heavily reliant on the sea. As the 19th century rolled in, the village began to attract holidaymakers, eager to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Was the name a mistake? A local tradition? Or perhaps a dramatic attempt at geographic branding? The truth is it might just be a delightful blend of all three.

Regardless, Westward Ho! ensures that travellers arrive ready to speculate on whether logic was ever involved. After all, who wouldn’t want to visit a place that sounds like it’s perpetually in a state of excitement?

Points of Interest:

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

• Northam Burrows Country Park – A stunning natural reserve that boasts beautiful coastal scenery, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic while watching the waves crash against the shore.

• Westward Ho! Beach – A long, sandy beach that’s ideal for sunbathing, surfing, or simply enjoying a good old-fashioned game of beach cricket. Just watch out for the seagulls—they’re known to have a taste for chips!

• The Big Sheep – This family-friendly attraction is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the quirky side of Devon. With sheep racing, rides, and a plethora of farm animals, it’s a day out that’s sure to entertain.

• Appledore – A charming nearby village with narrow streets, quaint shops, and a rich maritime history. It’s worth a visit for its picturesque views and delightful local eateries.

• The Royal North Devon Golf Club – For golf enthusiasts, this historic course offers stunning views and a chance to play where legends have teed off. Just remember to shout “Fore!” and not “Ho!” unless you want to confuse the locals.

Notable Figures:

Famous people who have been directly associated with Westward Ho! or Devon include:

• Charles Kingsley – The author of "Westward Ho!", whose literary work gave the village its name and a slice of fame in the literary world.

• Sir Francis Drake – The famed sea captain and explorer is said to have sailed from the nearby Bideford, leaving a legacy of adventure and maritime history.

• John Earle – A notable local historian and writer who contributed significantly to the understanding of the region’s past.

• J.K. Rowling – Although not born in Devon, the renowned author of the Harry Potter series spent time in the region, and her imaginative spirit can be felt in the whimsical nature of places like Westward Ho!

• Richard Adams – The author of "Watership Down", who spent part of his life in the area, adding to Devon’s rich tapestry of literary heritage.

Conclusion:

So, next time you find yourself at Westward Ho!, take a moment to admire how geography refuses to follow common sense—while questioning whether history really meant for this name to stick. It’s a place where the sea meets the scone, and where every visit feels like a quirky adventure waiting to unfold.

For more delightful oddities in place names, have a butchers' at www.strangeplacenames.com - because the UK & Ireland have loads of places that make you wonder just what in the world they were thinking when they named them.

After all, in a realm of "Westward Ho!", who needs a sensible name anyway? Life’s too short for boring place names!

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