TWW 31st December 2019


Surprisingly cool for our last walk this decade. A cooling easterly meant we were well wrapped up to head out from the Peter Tavy Inn. Up by the Colly Brook to check on the now empty swimming pool - perhaps we will get a dip sometime next year. Up in the now expected mud by Great Combe Tor and out under Cox. Gently round and down to take the track by Wedlake. Over the brook and shelter for a nice cuppa. Up the hill to Stephen's Grave for a group photo with White Tor behind. Along, along and down toward Cudliptown, then across Broadmoor Brook to Twyste. It appeared as though some tidying up had taken place with the remains of the old tractor gone. The Adriance Platt horse drawn mower still remains and the farmhouse just about stands. Along for the very fine traverse of all the Boulters and down by the church to the pub. The food arrived in good enough time and all eat a hearty lunch.
So there ends yet another decade of the Wednesday Walkers, as usual out and about in all the weather that our wonderful Dartmoor can offer. Looking at the lists it appears during the decade we completed 798 walks - a jolly fine number indeed!

TWW 24th December 2019 - Christmas Eve


A brooding overcast start for five of us from the very busy Norsworthy along the track to Deancombe, a gentle climb to Cuckoo Rock and on to Combeshead Tor, on to Down Tor stone Row. A squelchy stroll to the leat tunnel near Siwards Cross where we stopped for elevenses and to “WhatsApp” catch up with our buddies in Hong Kong. As we left the breeze became a wind and the heavens opened as we pressed on along the leat to Older Bridge, along the leat to Crazy Well Pool. The intention had been to have a picnic on the sunlit shore, but it was thought that soggy mince pies was not a good idea!! Met up with two of our drowned rat fellow walkers and pressed on to skirt round the NE edge of Raddick plantation, down to the River Meavy, along the track passed Leather Tor bridge back to the cars. A very wet walk with our picnic being held in the cars!!! 

WW 18th December 2019


'tis said a picture paints a thousand words - so not many more required here ...
A real, proper evening to set out from High Down with the wind howling and the rain lashing. So what to do? Over the just about clear stepping stones and straight up Brat to get the full effect. On to Foxholes to find shelter by the lintels (if it had had a roof it would have well blown off). Always a nice cozy spot for a cuppa. Back out as the rain briefly eased and round to find the track back down to cross the now awash stepping stones. And, not for a long long time, to the Dartmoor Inn for a very, very warm welcome. Wet walkers in muddy boots are now very welcome and it would make a nice spot for lunch after Easter.

TWW 17th December 2019


A snowdrift, well fancy that!
A really nice, warm morning to set out from Merrivale, hardly a breath of wind and a warming sun. Down along the lane over Little Wonder Bridge on the Pila Brook. The old trackway gently took us under Hucken Tor and to Daveytown. Along, along then down to Ward Bridge to admire the Walkham. A nice spot was found for a cuppa before heading up the old road to pop out under Pew. The trackway bent out by Heckwood where the Devil's Fingers must lie and down to cross the stream by Vixen. Back along to admire the horse, goat and geese by the Dartmoor Inn. On to a quiet Walkhampton Inn where a large table had been laid for us.
A very nice, gentle day to be out and about.

WW 11th December 2019

And
there you have it
promised a
'full moon walk'
so, of course
a full moon walk
it was
hardly needed torches
from the Scout Hut
in the gleaming
moonshine
up the track
to follow
the PCWW stones
to Eylesbarrow
down and across
to Higher Harttor Tor
for a nice cuppa
a cooling breeze
took us down
to the stone rows
looking wonderful
in the moonlight
by the warren house
where the roof
has been fixed
and along
the track
to the cars
and Royal Oak
which has had
a refurb!

TWW 10th December 2019


Now that was nice; some real, proper weather for a change. From Combestone as the gale whipped through and down to cross the leat. Over the Aller Brook bridge and round under the tor to the pipe walk. To step neatly down and paddle across Venford Brook. Up and on to Bench where allegedly are the finest views on the moor - mind you it was quite dramatic today. Shelter was found for a cuppa then time to turn and face the gale. Along the ridge and across the dam. Steadily up and across to Horn's Cross. Then, with the wind and weather behind us back to the cars. The very busy Two Bridges had prepared a very nice table and the warming grub soon arrived.
A jolly fine day to be out and about and test just how waterproof those waterproofs really are.

WW 4th December 2019


All the owls were hooting and this super craft was safely tied up at Bere Ferrers. As we left on a cool evening  - perhaps the last for a while. The half moon was shining brightly as we headed out by the muddy Tavy and up through the woods. Bending round to Hole Farm and down the hill with the lights of Calstock and Plymouth brightly shining. The odd roof at Shutecombe made a nice spot for a cuppa. Round and down back to the Old Plough for a nice pint and catch up.

TWW 3rd December 2019


Well, hard to believe you could have a better day for walking than that!
Culminating with a full heap o' sinners on Heap o' Sinners. From Cross Furzes - a long, long time since we were there. In glorious sunshine with barely a breath o' wind. Out along the Abbot's Way by Water Oak Corner onto the moor. All looking fabulous with the lovely low sun. Over by the settlements to cross the super new clapper to admire Huntingdon Cross. A wee bit tussocky to Keble Martin for a nice cuppa basking in the sunshine. Over a Walla Brook and steadily up to the beautiful, small Huntingdon Warren Cross and on to Heap o' Sinners with views far and wide; and a very nice man took our picture. Down through the pillow mounds by the warren to pick up the highway to Lud Gate. By the lane and road back to the cars to the Tradesman's Arms where we got a very fine welcome - reckon they were pleased to have some customers.
What a beautiful day to be out and about. We could all get rather used to it not raining.

WW 27th November 2019


Now that really was very, very dark; quite the darkest night (evening) we have had for a long time. But by the time we got round a bit the cloud lifted and we could see the landmarks. From the Hairy Hand when you could absolutely guarantee that it would rain - but not a drop. Out to the Lych Way and then round the forest to bend our way up to Laughter. It really is jolly wet out there. A nice spot for a cuppa then down to the gate to check on the tank - brim full. Up to Bellever Tor then gently back. To the Prince of Wales which was very, very quiet and very tastefully decorated for Christmas.
A nice evening to be out on the moor.

TWW 26th November 2019


Always nice to go somewhere new and this really was somewhere new for us. To Oreston to park on what was the sea wall. Out along on the super signed South West Footpath to Hooe Lake. An amazing place with all its long resting ships. Round and by Turnchapel by all the lanes and ginnels to Mount Batten where the seaplanes once left. And up to the tower for a nice cuppa - quite sheltered on a very stormy day. All along by the sea by Jennycliff to Staddon Heights. Down by where Radford Manor used to stand, to Radford Woods and Buddle Woods. By Radford Lake, where we were told about Drake and Raleigh bringing ashore their ill-gotten gains to secrete them at the manor. Back to a very welcoming Kings Arms. So much to see on a very stormy day. Not a drop fell whilst we were out but the rain soon came when we were back home on our moor. 

WW 20th November 2019


Totally magnificent planning and timing; got back to the cars just as the rain arrived.
Rather a cool evening to head out and up Leeden. Steadily down towards Fur and on past Yes. Through the cutting and up the short cut toward Foggintor. The steady track took us on to Swell then nicely down to the Criptor track. A sheltered spot with seating was found for our cuppa. The rather obscure guide posts took us on the muddy track to the lane. Up to Ingra and round the trackbed to wind back up to the cars. On to a quiet Walkhampton Inn for a nice pint and catch up with an 'old' friend.

TWW 19th November 2019


Always nice to start with some good news and some really good news today - congratulations. 
A coolish morning to head out from Bel Tor. Down the lane to Dr. Blackall's and on the way some lovely white cattle with brown ears and feet and calves - White Galloways or British White?. Round above the Dart with all the trees aglow - are they brown or are they grey? And down to Leigh Tor and even more down to Spitchwick for a nice spot for a cup of tea and birthday treats. Out along and then steadily up through Great Wood to the manor. The house we so admired a few years ago is now complete with its wonderful cedar cladding and shingles all softly mellowing in. Uppety up to Leusdon Church with its memorial to Lt. Struben from the manor, a Dragoon who then joined the Royal Flying Corps and was shot down in the 1st Word War. Even a bit more up to Ponsworthy and then (not surprisingly) even more up to the moor and back to the cars. On to Badger's Holt which made a jolly fine spot for lunch.
(No matter what anyone says there certainly was a lot, lot more up than down.)

WW 13th November 2019


Apparently someone once said "You really do have to be there." and this evening you Really did Really have to Really be there. Crunching through the snow under a full moon!
Out on a misty evening after lots of rain; soon the snow appeared by the road and at Whiteworks there was quite a covering. Of course, down and out to cross the mire and then the wonderful moon appeared gently out of the mist. Quite moist up to Goldsmith's then on to Whealham Bottom. Up the hill as the moonlight poured in to the new (again) Hand Hill Cross - and mighty fine it is too. By now no need for torches at all as we could see for miles. Down to Seward's and to Nun's Cross for a cuppa. A marvellous evening to round the leat looking over the mire and back to the cars. A somewhat protracted journey to the Plume which was nice and quiet after a busy evening of boy-racers coming out to find snow. 
What a truly fantastic evening to be out on our moor, what more do you want - bright, bright moonlight and lovely, lovely snow.

TWW 12th November 2019


And not a single drop fell - on us. As the rainbow shone to the north out from Blackaton Cross. (Emmet's Post is now well, well gone, all that is left is a huge big hole.) Across the Blacka Brook to the fantastic double stone row and on to Trowlesworthy. Dark clouds appeared on the north horizon but all seemed to scoot round us - mind you it was jolly cold! To Hen for a nice sheltered cuppa. Onward and upward toward the trig point and along the ridge to Shell Top. Beautiful views out to sea and all over the moor. The true scale of the china clay works hove into view. Some parts are now grassed over while the water jet is working elsewhere. Round and down by Big Pond; not at all inviting for a swim today. Back to the cars to the Royal Oak which was super busy but soon emptied when we arrived. Our nice luncheon arrived very smartly.
A lovely wintry feeling day to be out on the moor.

WW 6th November 2019


Well there certainly was plenty of weather about. Out from Yellowmeade in thick Dartmoor mist with the rain gently falling. To head up to Hollow as the mast lights popped out. Along, along, searching, searching to find the strange orange thing - always nice to find a strange orange thing. Just what could it be? All sorts of strange theories abound but most likely the exit from a prison escape tunnel. No doubt they popped their heads out and headed straight back for a warm shower and hot dinner. Down to Foggintor as the mist reappeared, to find shelter in the railway cutting for a cuppa. A brief foray to Swell then back to pick up the railway and down to a raging Pila Brook. The only way to cross, to ford the ford - nice and cool. By now the wind had joined in and it seemed a long, long way back by Four Winds to the cars. On to the Prince of Wales which is appropriately decorated for Remembrance Day.

TWW 5th November 2019

A jolly fine morning to set out from a very, very busy Parke. To enjoy warm weather, beautiful woodland and marvellous fungi. Parke Wood to start and out by Blackmoor Copse. Down the road to the the Wray Valley Trail and along the trackbed. Popping out and the steep pull up at Knowle. And then a real treat, yet another brand new tor, presumably Higher Knowle Tor. A very nice spot to sit in the sunshine for a cuppa. The woods have some really beautiful fungi particularly the well named Magpie Ink Cap where quite a few specimens had our close attention. Steeply down by the bitey dog to marvel at the manor house Plumley, sharing its name with one the  many mines around about. To find the high track by the river to bend us back to Parke for a jolly fine luncheon in Home Farm cafe surrounded by Dianne's beautiful pictures.
A very nice autumnal walk indeed.

WW 30th October 2019


Wednesday evening
Watch the weather forecast - easterly gales and heavy rain
Down to the car - blowing a fair bit and wet
Drive out - wipers on, heater on
Pork Hill car park - car rocking in the wind and rain
Get out - put on waterproofs and zip up
Onward and out - not too bad at all, in fact quite a pleasant evening - the toads were certainly enjoying it. Over to the pond and up Great Staple in pretty good visibility. Down to Middle and on to Merrivale. Over the road to Vixen and shelter for a nice cuppa. Up to Heckwood where the Devil's Fingers are long gone. Over to Feather where a hare ran out. To Windy Post and over Barn Hill and back. The Whitty almost empty and a good pint.
All in all, as usual, a jolly fine evening to be out and about enjoying our moor.

TWW 29th October 2019


And rather a nice day to go exploring the Tavy valley out of the blowy easterly. From Peter Tavy and down to the river to explore Devon United Mine. So much to see ... first the Thomson Turbine which produced electricity for the mine. To the adit which looked most encouraging. Then on to all the old buildings slowly disappearing into the woods. The arsenic calciners still stand proud and the deep shafts disappear into the ground. Up through the fields and out to Cudlipptown. Along the road and down to Horndon Bridge for a nice cuppa. Up to Horndon itself, by the old chapel and down to Bennett's Reservoir. Along the channel for the power station and out to Kent's Tor. All along and back to cross the Tavy and on to a very, very busy Peter Tavy Inn.
And, as we left the cold rain started to fall.

WW 23rd October 2019



A very pleasant, warm and dark evening to explore unknown territory.
Out from Denham Wood car park and down the gravelled track to the ‘old’ car park. We knew we were in for some fun when the leader got out his secateurs and saw! Bushwhacked the path alongside the River Tavy which we could hear rushing past but only catch a glimpse off in the torch light. Along to make the gravelled track to Parsons Wood then down again towards the river through Little Whiterock Wood through to Great Whiterock Wood and on to the large fenced off shaft in Fishacre Wood and steep slippery climb to circumnavigate. Through the mud to Little Whiterock Wood and onto find a convenient log in Parsons Wood for a tea break and discuss the stars in the night sky and compare phone apps for observing same. Off again to follow the gravel/mud track to the car park passing numerous log piles, one of which provided lots of different types of fungi. On to a welcoming but quiet Drake Manor Inn for refreshments, so I’m informed as I didn’t join them!!
TGB

TWW 22nd October 2019

Ten humans and two dogs set off from Ephraim's Pinch through the mossy woods and sunny skies. Soon over the ford at Soussons Farm and up past the mother cows and youngsters.
Over the creaking "feather beds" and feet still dry. Getting warm in the October sun now so it was welcome to pause by iron machine. Did this get moved a tad ?  Maybe. Looks very fine.
Up on to the Challacombe ridge. Spotty dog meets spotty horse. After welcome coffee stop the group split to enable East Birch Tor stone location hunt . Misty decided to supervise for awhile so the two groups and dogs reunited later on lower track at Hillhead Farm with reports of successful mission.
Back along the trail through Challacombe's fields and barking dogs and back over the ford towards woods and cars.
A quiet Prince of Wales welcomed us where others were busy and reluctant. Service was so fast we only just sat down in time !!
Excellent place. Excellent walk.

WW 16th October 2019


A fine evening to set out from Calstock with the Calstock cat guiding us out. The boats are being stored for the winter and all is quiet. Up Danescombe where the stream was rushing and past the mines. Onward and upward by Albaston then a bit of busy road before the Cotehele land to take us back by the old paper mill. A huge moon rose and no waterproofs were required - yet again! To the very smart Tamar Inn for a refreshing pint.
Always nice in Cornwall.

TWW 15th October 2019


A really fine, sunny day to head out by the cattle grid on the way to Sherberton. Over to inspect the water pipe portal and on to Gobbett Mine.  By the rushing Swincombe to Fairy Bridge - and there she was, nicely sheltered. To John Bishop's to admire the lintels (again) and up the lane through Swincombe village. Back a bit and round to the stone circle - apparently one of the largest on the moor. Along the track and over Rue Lake to something completely new. The old engine house for the aerial ropeway taking timber from Brimpts to the rail-head at Princetown. Back a bit more and on to find the gateway. By the lovely cist and the three tall stones to a very busy reservoir. The pipe track took us back to Fairy Bridge and then the old lane up and over back to the cars as a vigorous squall went by. A warm welcome at a very quiet Forest Inn and plenty of time for a chat before lunch arrived

WW 9th October 2019

Goosey Fair
and the music followed us all round the Down
from the Whitty
to seek out fungi
by Middlemoor
and Holwell
(which may be getting done up)
over the golf course
and down
few fungi about
but some of these pretty things
(Mycena filopes perhaps)
along to the quarry
for a cuppa
on to Warren's Cross
by Shorts
and back
to a nice, quiet Whitty


TWW 8th October 2019


A really nice weathery day to be out on the moor. Some jolly good squally showers to remind us that Autumn is here. And some warm sunshine to remind us of the Summer that was. Out from the quarry car park and through the Godsworthys. The footpath has been diverted so the usual dogs were not quite so threatening. Out and up an old, old track to wend to Roos. Great views and some nice shelter for a cuppa. All along across Langstone Moor to the stone circle then gently bending round the mire to the Longstone itself. Up through the thufurs and a quick dash to the range hut for waterproofs as a particularly energetic squall powered by. Up to White and on to Lower White, as the squalls went south of us, and down to the wall. Boulters had to be added in and then down to the cars and the Peter Tavy Inn. Where the pensioners' lunch was proving extremely popular and the baguettes almost too much to manage. A fine morning to be out and about.

WW 2nd October 2019


Now that really was something rather different.
We walk, they walk, we walk, they walk, we all walk ...
A marvellous play which would resonate with many, many people in many, many different ways. It certainly brought into sharp focus racial issues and belonging. For some it may bring into consideration the very reasons for walking - doubtless as many as there are walkers. For others, even us, it causes questions about identity; just who are we and how many persona do we inhabit. Perhaps it questions us about humour - do we laugh when things are funny or when we feel uncomfortable. 
A very enjoyable evening book-ended by a sumptuous (posh) meal and a visit to a real proper pub where two (or possibly more) football matches are broadcast simultaneously.
As it says on the tin ;'You really do have to be there ...'

TWW 1st October 2019

Treats galore today
from Huckworthy Common
with its lovely cross
and up the road to find
the truly fantastic
Ogham Stone
used as a gatepost
500AD you know
onward to Sampford Spiney
and out to round Pew
a stop for a cuppa in the quarry
and up to the summit
gently down
to Heckwood
to find
yet more
Devil's Fingers
along the track
to see the Ash
that have been condemned
to bend
by the fields
and down
the old, old road
a quick pull up
back to the cars
to the Walkhampton Inn
for a rather nice
lunch
and ne'er but a wee drop
fell.

But also, a day with sad news.

WW 25th September 2019


And there they were in their usual place - very nice.
From Roborough Down and over the busy, busy road. To head across and down to the lane. On to the way through the fence and by the aqueduct to the tunnel entrance. A super place for a nice cuppa. The lights in the tunnel are not on at night so torches were jolly useful. Onward to find the stile to take us steeply up and back onto the Down. To the railway line and the old shed. Over the golf course to the Moorland Garden - £85 for Christmas Dinner! Pleased to hear that the poorly one was a lot better in the morning.

TWW 24th September 2019


And the heavens opened and it absolutely tipped it down - but by then we were on our way home.
Out from by the Warren House on a lovely warm morning with just the hint of a shower. To explore all (all) the gerts, beams and gullies. Super adventure with plenty of up and down. Roundily about down Hambley's Gert to wander up the North Lodes to Birch Tor with views far and wide. Along the track to the head of East Birch Mine and then down the gert to Headland Warren where the sun shone and a very warm spot was found for a cuppa. Along the track and through the gate at the rabbit proof wall. To head steeply, steeply up to the huge Scudley Beam and pop out on the down. Along by the stone row to search for East Birch Mine stone - no luck. (Ed. it turns out Mike's logan stone is East Birch Tor - new to us.) Then down Chaw Gully to cross Redwater Brook and see the magnificent highland cattle. Up the nice track to the pub? No, up the South Lodes gully and out to climb up to a rather sombre Warren House Inn.

WW 18th September 2019

Out to Minions
With the sun already low
To The Hurlers
And on, and up
To the Cheesewring
As the sun
Dived down
As did we
Down and round
To Sharp Tor
Across the Down
To the fantastic Bearah Tor Quarry
With the amazing saw
And old, old crane
A nice spot to celebrate
A BIG birthday
The light gone
Back across the Down
Up and over
As a huge Harvest Moon rose
Over Princetown

TWW 17th September 2019


Wow - now that was a real adventure and like all the very best adventures it all started off so sublimely.
A beautiful autumnal sunny day to set out from Cold East Cross. To gently wander down the paths to Buckland Beacon to admire the Ten Commandments. Across Welstor Common to the old butts and down to the stile and sheep creep to cross the road. The lovely path gently meandered toward Rushlade Bridge and there, just by the track, a lovely apple tree laden with sweet juicy apples. Over the bridge, along the road a bit and up to the huge butts - just the spot to sit, have a cuppa and gaze over the moor. A nice track took us down to Langworthy Brook and out through the fields to plot a route to Rippon Tor. The chosen route across Mountsland Common proved somewhat less than ideal. The huge tussocks soon gave way to mire and briar all mixed in with huge bracken. The parties somehow managed to battle their way through albeit with a few scratches. By now the time had slipped away and the quickest and least painful route was taken back to the cars. On to a fantastically busy Rugglestone - 150 covers on a Tuesday lunchtime, no wonder there was a bit of a wait - compensated by a HUGE bowl of FREE chips!
A long time since we had such an exciting day.

WW 11th September 2019


Phew, at last some real, right proper weather ... to set out from Four Winds. The promise was to see the sun set from King's Tor and I suppose the sun must have set. Down and round to the old railway siding and the wonderful corbels. By the quarry to the main line and then the subtle track by Criptor. As expected the mud soon made its presence felt. Out and up by Ingra for a nice cuppa sheltering in the quarry. Along the railway, dodging the running soldiers,  and up the shortcut by Foggintor. By now the misty, drizzly, mizzly stuff had stopped to be replaced by proper rain. Out to the road and down to the cars. On to a busy Whitty - not been there for some time.
A goodly evening to be out on our moor.

TWW 10th September 2019


Second Tuesday in September - so off we go to Widecombe Fair all along down along ...
From Firth Bridge on a really lovely morning with a cooling breeze, fluffy clouds and lots of sunshine. Up to Grimspound, through and out. Up to Hameldown Tor then the long, long, long descent along the ridge - only really noticeable on the return! By all the burrow barrows, Kingslade Tor, Stoneslade Tor and down by the windy path so full of luscious blackberries. The super steep hill talking us all the way to the familiar sound of the organ and the fair. Busy, busy, busy with everything just in its place. So much to see and eat; Austin Sevens parading in the ring, Field Marshalls on display, sawing timber, sheep, cattle, wonderful live music, old lorries, beer, hogs roasting, coffee, crepes, pony displays, great big tractors, Uncle Tom Cobley and all, dog show, children racing and of course the ferret racing. For me, as always, it is the local craft and produce stall that is the star.
Such wonderful weather for their fair - then the long, steady pull back ...

WW 4th September 2019


The soldiers certainly provided lots of entertainment this evening. Out from Ringmoor Cott to chat with those not going to make it to the pub. Round to Brisworthy where the bashas were all set up for a long night. And round by the stone circle in the lovely evening light to pop up Legis just as the sun set. Over the stile and round to the wall corner and steadily along to Gutter Tor and there it all went a bit odd. Certainly soldiers on the skyline by the trig point and possibly soldiers disguised as pantomime cows. Some took the direct route, others the bendy way, as their paths crossed in the failing light (no torches allowed of course). Then, who were the soldiers who appeared mysteriously in the night and pixie led folk astray? Soon all were reunited to head to the Royal Oak where the Morris folk are back in rehearsal mode.

TWW 3rd September 2019


Definitely a feel of Autumn as we set out from Postbridge. Still lots and lots of our European friends on holiday. Out along and up the track by the East Dart to the Donaghy Memorial - very easy to find now after all the gorse has been cut back and a huge fire has swept through. Up to the main trackway and out to the Beehive Hut for a nice cuppa. By the river and round to the wonderful waterfall - easy to cross after a few dry days. Out to seek the peat regeneration works and then back by Broadun Rocks and down over Braddon Lake back to the cars. On to the Prince of Wales for a very nice lunch which arrived jolly quickly for most but not the hungriest!

WW 28th August 2019


Not very likely but who knows, would we make it round without torches?
From Baggator on a calm evening to head out and up to Lynch. Over and down to seek the farm or is it mine remains, turns out to be a Turf House from all the peat works. Over the very early Walkham and out to the old trackway. Steadily down to the leat take off and the ancient bridge over the Lych Way for a cuppa. Up in the dwindling light to White Barrow and round by the walls to be funnelled in - refusing to get our torches out. Then as we dropped down and out of the mist the light returned to guide us back to the cars and on to a very busy Peter Tavy Inn.

TWW 27th August 2019


On a glorious sunny morning, we left Lane Head car park, heading NE on a nice steady climb to Ger Tor. The committee decided to omit the excursion to Hare Tor, opting instead to contour around the top of Tavy Cleve, before crossing the Rattle Brook by Dead Lake.  A short climb took us to the firing range observation hut where we stopped for coffee (or other liquid refreshment). Contouring round Watern Oke brought us to Sandy Ford where we crossed Amicombe Brook. From there a progressively steepening ascent brought us to our goal – Fur Tor. Only to find somebody else already there (had they booked?!)  A break for lunch ( apparently a small dog eat someone's eggy sandwich which is not on!), and for some a chance to play “King of the Castle”, then it was time to head westward back down hill to the Tavy.  After crossing back over Amicombe Brook at Sandy Ford, we continued along the banks of the Tavy to the island above the confluence with the Rattle Brook. The sharp eyed spotted a peregrine falcon heading in the opposite direction. At the pool, we stopped while some paddled, some swam and some just chilled.  Suitably refreshed, we continued along the Tavy, first on the south bank, then on the north bank to the take off for the mine leat.  Along the leat to Nattor Farm and back down the track to the car park.  Safely in the dry as the first few spots of rain started to fall.  Timing is everything!

WW 21st August 2019


A very quiet evening to head out down and by Routrundle which looks like it is being looked after. Round by Ingra and on, quite a few folk out and about. Up and round by Swell Tor to explore the ruins. Onward and downward to Leeden and back to the car. A fine evening.

TWW 20th August 2019


The inaugural Burrator Skyline Walk. From the dam on a lovely day to head clockwise. Gently up to the railway and round to Lowery Cross. Through the woods to pop out underneath Peek Hill. Steadily up to superb views far and wide. Through the col and round what is left of the forest to have a nice cuppa by Stenlake. By the leat and past the Indian's Head to the waterfall and aqueduct. Up and on to Crazy Well Pool which was too busy. So we headed on and down to the ruined Classeywell Farm for a spot of lunch. The Newleycombe ford was found and a quick nip up Down brought more fantastic views. Across Narrator and up the refurbished track to Sheepstor. Joey's Lane and the tricky stile took us on and round rather a low reservoir back to the cars. A fine day out.

WW 14th August 2019


You really did have to be there to stand any chance of seeing the moon rise over Drizzlecombe, all the stars pop out and the superb fireworks.
Out from Ringmoor to round the common and explore the old farm. Over to the Warren House where the roof is slowly deteriorating. Up the to standing stones and back. By the amazing longhouses and up Gutter Tor. The nice long path took us steadily back to the cars and the Royal Oak where we sat in the locals' place.

TWW 13th August 2019


From Meldon Reservoir to follow the West Okement River gently up to Lints Tor. Then across to Dinger Tor and gently up again to High Willhayes.  Across to Yes Tor.  Down again to avoid the clitter. A mixture of Dartmoor's very best weather with rain and sunshine at different times.  

WW 7th August 2019


Chirring and a couple of sightings and a really lovely evening to be out on our moor. From the car park where lots and lots of campers were having a jolly time by the river. To wind up the forestry track by the hut circles and out by the wall. Out along up where the Rowan trees are getting well established to check on Laughter Tor Cross sleeping in the wall. Down to the sheepfold for a nice cuppa then down to the wonderful standing stone to wonder whether they are red deer or red cattle. By the track to the gate and water tank and the pull up to Bellever Tor - with the sun setting and views as far as could be seen. Nice and slowly down as the dimpsy slowly, slowly crept in to wait and wait at our cross roads for them. And they were there but not over abundant or over noisy. Back to the cars, a quick check that the East Dart was shut, and on to the reliable Prince of Wales to admire the Axminster and down a nice pint.

TWW 6th August 2019


A jolly fine day to set out from the Forest Inn - nice and warm with a hint of soft rain to come. Round by the farm and down to Hexworthy Bridge. Up the lane past the singing post box to the lovely St. Raphael's. A little more up and out onto the moor to head for Huccaby Tor. And there on the path, resting, a wonderful Emperor Moth caterpillar, quite a sight. Up to the tor and on to the dressing floors, wheelpit, shaft and whim of North Brimpts - a nice place for a cuppa. To the track and down by the lovely calves to the Judges' Chair. Over the cattle grid and down to the Sherberton stepping stones which seem to become a bit more challenging each year (?). A quick check on Gobbett Mill and up and over back to the cars and The Forest Inn - a jolly fine place for a spot of lunch.

WW 31st July 2019


Well, could be a sign of a hard winter to come. Nice and mild as we set out from Grenofen Bridge. Plenty of puddles about and the Walkham was very murky. Round by the rowdy wedding venue and out along by the river. The dippers were busy having their evening snacks as we got to Double Waters: a fine spot for a cuppa. Round by the jolly campers to the fishermen's hut and a bit of skimming. Up the track where some of the brave braved the tunnel. And along through the huge bracken as the sun was setting on Great Staple far away. To the railway and over the wonderful Gem Bridge for all to have a super swing on the super swing. Back down to the cars and, not without some difficulty, to the very posh Leaping Salmon for a pint of Avocet.
The nights certainly seem to be drawing in.

TWW 30th July 2019


A jolly fine, proper nice, day to be out on the moor. Out from the green and round, up by the flagpole onto the ridge. The wind and rain managed to make a fair impression but we found nice shelter for our cuppa. Out along by Oke and down the old track to Knack Mine. Gently up and steadily on to a breezy Steeperton for our picnic. The path took us steadily across Steeperton Brook and up to Hound. The weather bowled through giving snapshot views all around. The nice steady track took us down to the Taw and across by the ford with barely a wet foot. Back along the track by the waterworks, checking that Field Marshall is still there.
And then a real treat, some wise one had booked us into The Old School Tea Rooms; jolly nice with china cups, lashing of tea, scones, clotted cream and a lovely selection of jams. And, by the time we got back we were all nicely blown dry.

WW 24th July 2019


And on, another super beautiful evening to set out. By the Warren House and down the trackway to Vitifer and over the West Webburn. Along the track that is always wet to contour Soussons to the farm. Round the fields to the Challacombe track to find a nice spot for a cuppa. Where, resting, were the remains of a Deering horse drawn mower all the way from Chicago, probably 120 years old. Such a lovely evening; that the ridge of Challacombe beckoned with its superb stone rows. Still beckoning on to Birch as the sun set and the dimpsy gently rolled in. Down the track to the Warren House for the usual 'welcome'. The fire seemed to be burning brighter than ever and a small dog did just what was needed. The usual chicanes provided entertainment on the way home.
Amazing weather to be out and about on our lovely moor.

TWW 23rd July 2019


An amazing day to set out from Hemsworthy Gate with a soft breeze and huge views. Up Rippon Tor and, after a search and some help, the elusive recumbent cross. Down to the Nutcrackers to speculate just which one had been the logan. Onward to Cold East Cross to pick up the main track out to Buckland Beacon. The Ten Commandments are really fine now and a fine place for a cuppa. Time for the bins to identify all the distant landmarks. Back over the common and down to the bridge, up along by William's Well to Blackslade Ford. Plenty of time to go over Pil and Tor Tors. On to the busy Rugglestone to seek shelter from the sun for a nice lunch. 
And then, just as we left, without a cloud in the sky, it started to softly rain - funny old place Dartmoor.

WW 17th July 2019


Still nice and warm, still nice and dry to set out from Yennadon. Over the lovely new bridge by the fragrant bedstraw and past the huge bulls. Out along and up to Goat's Pond where the ponies were struggling to find any moisture at all - will it ever rain? Down by the woods that were and round the bend to Stenlake for a cuppa - but just what is that? No it cannot be, yes it is, wet stuff falling from the sky and funny misty stuff appearing, what can it be? Luckily this well prepared team had the necessary accoutrements. Time for a swift cuppa and on by the leat down to Lether Tor Farm. The potato cave was checked and back along to Cross Gate where small patches of liquid had accumulated in the lane - must be a technical term for that. And back, to the very, very busy Walkhampton Inn for some reel Cornish ale.

TWW 16th July 2019


What a lovely day! A select group of intrepid 'Wild Swimmers' set of from New Bridge for a gentle, cool stroll through the woods, past a spectacular and unexpected waterfall to Sharrah Pool. It really was lovely once you where in. Then medication checked and taken, up, up, up, up, and more Up.  Some of us were proud and pleased to have made it at such a great age. Round to Bench Tor for a shared picnic in the sunshine. Across the very dry moor to the road to Holne village. The Church House Inn is once again open and welcoming. A brief stop for a refreshing beer and shared cheesy chips and down, down, down through meadows to rejoin the path back to the now very busy car park. Lovely! 

WW 10th July 2019


Surprisingly overcast and even a wee bit cool ... to set out from Haytor. Carefully contouring Bagtor Down where the curlew's call drifted on the slight breeze. To head up Rippon Tor and then steadily down, across the road and up to Saddle. By the dew pond and out, and there it was, a settee just sitting there, so we had to go for a sit. A nice spot for a cuppa as the hashers ran back by High Man. By all the tramways to Holwell Tor and across toward Haytor to discover a lovely quarry with its own tramway heading in. Up and over by the late climbers as the curlew called and down to the New Old Inn. Where the choice seems to be bee beer or lactose free yoghurt for dogs.
Funny old place our moor.

You really do have to be there ...

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