Start Point, Devon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Start Point |
|
|---|---|
View east, including Start Point Lighthouse in mid-picture.
|
|
 Location in Devon
|
|
| Coordinates | 50°13′18″N 3°38′28″W / 50.221767°N 3.641213°W |
Start Point is a piece of land that sticks out into the sea. It is located in the South Hams area of Devon, England. This spot is very close to the most southern part of Devon. Start Point marks the southern edge of Start Bay. Start Bay stretches north towards the mouth of the River Dart.
Contents
The Rocks of Start Point
The rocks at Start Point are special types called greenschist and mica-schist. These rocks were formed a very long time ago. They started as regular sediments during the Devonian period. Then, huge forces from mountain building changed them. This process, called metamorphism, happened near the end of the Carboniferous period.
What's in a Name?
The name "Start" comes from an old word. It comes from the Old English word steort. This word means "a tail." You can see this root in the names of some birds. For example, the bird called a redstart also has a name related to its tail.
What You Can See at Start Point
Start Point is a popular place to visit. Many ships used to crash in this area. Because of this, the Start Point Lighthouse was built in 1836. Its job was to warn ships about the dangerous rocks nearby.
The lighthouse is still there today. You can also see many different birds in the area. Visitors can walk along the South West Coast Path to reach Start Point.
Start Point Transmitting Station
On top of Start Point, you will find the Start Point transmitting station. This station was built in 1939. Today, it sends out only one radio broadcast. That broadcast is BBC Radio 5 Live.
Lamacraft Farm
Close to Start Point is Lamacraft Farm. This farm is also about a quarter of a mile from South Hallsands.
See also
In Spanish: Start Point (Devon) para niños
