Five Dolphin Lamp Posts On Embankment Between The Square And Rock Park

The five dolphin lamp posts on the embankment between The Square and Rock Park in Barnstaple are grade II listed structures, likely dating from the mid-19th century. These lamp standards are made of cast iron and rest on stone pedestals crafted from limestone ashlar, which are oblong in shape and feature moulded caps. The pedestals have red sandstone panels on the front and back, although some of these panels have been replaced with electric light fittings. Each iron lamp standard is adorned with two dolphins intertwined around the stem of a plant, and the base is marked with the name "COALBROOKDALE." The tops of the lamps were replaced in the late 20th century. Historically, Taw Vale was cut through in 1846, and the "Coalbrookdale" name refers to the renowned Coalbrookdale Company, established by Abraham Darby in 1708 at Ironbridge, Shropshire. This particular design was originally created for the Victoria and Albert Embankments in London between 1865 and 1870.