Historic Sebastopol Cannon a reminder of Torquay seafront’s Crimean War past

The changing face of the Torquay waterfront is never far away from the news headlines these days.

The Strand has taken on a new Piazza-style look following investment from government funding, creating more open public space along the seafront.

Among the additions attracting attention is a statue of Dame Agatha Christie and her dog, which has quickly become a favourite photo spot.

The Rock Walk lights have also returned to the Royal Terrace Gardens, illuminating the cliffside once more.

Torquay Museum has highlighted the area’s rich heritage by sharing a photograph taken in June 1895, showing a view along Princess Pier towards Rock Walk and Waldon Hill.

In the foreground of the picture is the Sebastopol Cannon, captured during the Crimean War in the 1850s, which once stood as a landmark on the seafront.

While Torquay’s waterfront continues to celebrate its history, questions remain about its future. The fate of the Debenhams building, Pavilion and the former Living Coasts site has yet to be decided — with many shots still to be fired.

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