While navigating Torquay, here’s what to look out for:
* The English countryside, unlike the English ability to read quality spin bowling, is hugely under-rated. There is nothing as soul-lifting as a drive around Devon on a dry day
* English gardens dot the short walk to Maidencombe Beach via Steep Hill. There’s a walking trail all along the coast that starts from the Maidencombe Beach Car Park
* A much-needed coffee shop on my descent down to the beach. Two hundred tortuous steps to Maidencombe too many
* Finally! Maidencombe Beach. Not a soul in sight. But no place to lie down either
* Flower bed in a shipwrecked blue boat. A case of getting carried away too far
* Too early for a drink? Not at The Thatched Tavern. Lagavulin — neat or with spring water. But never on the rocks
