All rather odd and reassuring. The Northmore Arms was exactly, exactly as it always has been - expect that the landlady, Nikki, and her huge dog have left. In fact it was all very inviting. It is being run by volunteers from the community - yes people actually giving up their time to run the pub for free. Whilst the owner pops in for a drink every day and waits for a new tenant to mystically arrive.
A long, long, long way out on a cooler evening to Shilstone. To head out to Shilley Pool where we swam - not over inviting this evening. Up to find the fantastic triple stone row as the sun set and rain clouds gathered in the east. Along the hidden trackway then down to cross the ford at Blackaton Brook. And back to the tor with the cuckoo calling.
All in daylight and nice time to enjoy the really real ale at the Northmore Arms and catch up on all the gossip.