TWW 28th December 2021

 

High winds were forecast on the high moor and not wishing to been blown off our feet and deposited on top of Fur Tor, I plotted a low level walk from The Peter Tavy Inn through soggy fields, rocky stream like tracks and country lanes.  Passing through many fields we came across wall stiles, ladder stiles and normal wood stiles - all designed to exercise Charlie’s new hip - gold star for Charlie who tackled all of these admirably.  Uphill we plodded to Boulters Tor with a diversion to Twyste Farm before coming back to pub via the Collybrook path.

Highlight of the walk was seeing a fine pig who was very friendly and enjoyed a fuss. Then lots of piglets, who must have heard us, squeezed under the wire to join Mum!  Gorgeous piggies!

Pub lunch at The Peter Tavy Inn was yummy. 

Walkers:  Dianne, Jon, Tylo, Anne, Brenda, Charlie, Phil, Colin and Amber.

WW 22nd December 2021

 

Well the nights are drawing out and a good time to set out from the quarry car park. Gently up to the railway line and along. By the new phone mast to the take off for Dousland Reservoir - from where all the best people get their water. And along by the busy leat to cross the road. By the deer proof enclosures where re-wilding is really taking hold - not much chance of bashing a way through that lot. By the leat all the way to the measuring station where '3' was the reading. Up the tumbling fall and along the fishy walk - no sign of Sam or Geoff. One of many memorial seats provided a nice spot for a cuppa and ponder. Down to Lethertor Farm and the fantastic bridge. By the blowing house and round the end of the reservoir. Into the arboretum and out again, rather pixie led back to the very quiet road. The refurbished track from Longstone Manor has descended back into thick gloopy mud. Over Sheepstor Dam and back. 

A most pleasant pre-Christmas circumnavigation of the lake.

TWW 21st December 2021

 

Dry sunny walk from Grenofen to West Down & back to Doublewaters finding a boundary stone that we hadn’t seen before. Skirting the copper mining areas alongside the river we climbed to Berra Tor where we  downed red & white wine & a selection of naughty nibbles. Fortunately the route was downhill all the way to the cars! It was an easy stroll to connect with the Drake Trail & descend through woodland to our vehicles. We lunched at the Drake Café where we thoroughly enjoyed super food & a licensee who entertained us with jokes & local trivia. A great end to a lovely day & wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & a Covid free New Year.

Colin & Amber

WW 15th December 2021

 

Well it was advertised as a short walk, and it was. One could almost call it a mini walk with mini attendance, just the two of us.

From the car park beside the River Lynher, just over Callington New Bridge, we followed the river as it flowed down stream admiring the work of the Lumberjacks who have been creating barriers with tree trunks to prevent walkers from falling into the river and disturbing the wild life. From the posts we saw these include Otters and Kingfishers, but on a dark but warm night none were spotted. They have also been coppicing to attract more varied wildlife.

It was then across the road, over the stile and the steep but short climb to visit Cadson Bury Fort, a medieval settlement now looked after by the National Trust. We circumnavigated the fort from where there are fine views on a day walk, but with very few properties in the area there were few lights visible. It was then back down the hill to pass through the gate and cross back to the river bank where we found a bench for coffee break, followed by a rapid return to the cars. No visit to the pub this time with Christmas round the corner and, with the hope of seeing our families, discretion was the order of the evening.

It was agreed that this will make a good start to a longer walk in the spring taking in Kit Hill.

Peter

TWW 14th December 2021

 

Full carpark, in the mist , so many , 13 in fact, wonderful .

No view of any moors so it was blind leading blind up through the Bronze Age village and the old quarries. Soon to the Leedon Tors with their strange grumpy shapes. Past tracks and hollows down to the railway and on to the shelter of Ingra Tor Quarry and its lovely circular crane bases for coffee and treats.

Now down a track to join a bridle path linking to Routrundle. And a familiar figure approaches through mist. We are now 14.

Next along the track we come to the interestingly named Babyland, a very well defined longhouse and associated buildings with garden . This delighted even those who keep an eye on all things longhouse !

On along the track now , past Routrundle Farm and on up to the moors again. Through grassy gorsey lands to another area of circular homes before rejoining the railway.

The mist was still around us as we climbed away up past the old quarry and pits towards the stone row..quite a long one..once found !! No one lost !

Rumbling tummies and a contour to follow back to the cars in the mist and a drive down the hill to a very pleasant convivial Burrator Inn with very tasty meals and snacks. 

To be repeated. On a clearer day !!

Anne

WW 8th December 2021

 

According to the English dictionary, wind is a current of air, sometimes of considerable force, moving generally horizontally from areas of high pressure to areas of of low pressure. That's a very genteel way of putting it I'd say!

From the quarry car park at Two Bridges we negotiated many horrid stiles to pass through the woods and Cowsic River. Very picturesque in the light of our head torches.

Most Interesting was the biggest fairy circle with enormous fairy fungi I've ever seen, spooky!

Past the farm and up through Beardown Wood the wind got stronger until out on to the ridge it did its best to discourage us from carrying on. One of us couldn't breathe, another couldn't stand up, but did we give up? No we did not, no plan B tonight! Finally reaching one of the Beardown Tors we gratefully sheltered under somewhat precariously balanced rocks for much needed drinks. The views of Princetown below us looked quite Christmassy ahhhh!

Slight wrong turn of direction took us through king-size tussocks worthy of Raz, instead of nice clear path, until we leapt over the leat and followed the rough path back down past Beardown Farm, horrid stiles, past the hotel who gives all travellers, walkers etc a very warm welcome .... as long as its before 4oclock in the afternoon! 10 o'clock and the Prince of Wales was open, a Christmas party in full swing. Too loud for Conversation, foot tapping and head nodding was all we could do until suddenly the music stopped, everyone baled out and we were.....

Driving home for Christmas!! 🎄

Brenda

TWW 7th December 2021

Many and varied spurious reasons (excuses) for not entering into the teeth of Storm Barra were posted on WhatsApp prior to the event.

However three intrepid souls (mad old fools) joined me and ‘im in a force 70 Gale and driving rain to attempt the Two Moors Way circuit.

A quick photo by the cross in case there was not another opportunity and off we set on a backwards route on account of the weather. The paths had turned into streams or sticky, slippy mud as we headed up past Birch and on to be greeted at the road crossing by our lovely ladies of the moor. I was envious of their waterproof leather coats and long eyelashes. On up we slogged buffeted by the wind to reach the wall and at last to turn our backs on the wind as we headed to Shapley. Coffee time saw us in a hut circle which offered a little shelter.

Then……..the magic of the Moor happened. It stopped raining ………the sun came out! just as Phil had predicted.

On down through Shapley car park to meet the lovely old sunken road to Lettaford with its wonderful array of old tree roots where surely fairies live. We again picked up the Two Moors way through Jurston to Lingcombe. For sale when we were here last time now being gutted and rebuilt by a local lad from Horrabridge. A two to three year project we were told but nice to know it will be lived in by the owner unlike other houses we had passed. On reaching Hurston we followed the footpath back onto the open Moor. We again picked up the Two Moors way avoiding the boggy valley below and back to the cars, surprisingly still only ours in the car park.

You really should have been there. Not half as bad as expected in fact rather pleasant to have a proper Dartmoor walk with proper Dartmoor weather.

Maybe we’re not as mad after all.

Stella

WW 1st December 2021

 

It was a dark and stormy night ….. our leader was feeling rough as rats so he handed over his map and beetled off home - best place if you feel like that.

All available gear was donned before crossing the leat and heading up towards Pew Tor. Not a night for standing around on top of rocks so it was round the Tor and down to the track that leads to Heckwood Tor. That beautifully dressed block of granite still there -  some hours of work went into that. Down then to cross the stream under a glowering Vixen Tor, a bit of guesswork on tracks to find us a bridge over the leat just below the quarry car park under Little Staple. Up through the boulders, past several set makers benches, for a brief cuppa  in the lee of some rocks. Up to Middle Staple next where it seemed a little less cold and a little less windy than expected and quite a few stars were showing. Down to Beccamore Combe ( thanks Jane for the name ) along the leat to Windy Post. Staying high to avoid the gorse and boggy tracks we returned to the cars - you know what: it was quite a nice evening by then.

Back to his local to toast Terry. He had as good a send off as anyone could ask for. We will all miss him.

Mike

TWW 30th November 2021

Thirteen of us gathered at Bere Alston station on a special day as Charlie was walking for the first time since his hip replacement, and Michael joined us too.

We set off in cloudy weather, making our way through straggling housing, then through woods down to Tuckermarsh Quay. This had been the final walk before lockdown in March 2020, led by Amber and Colin – we weren’t sure whether we were in a better position now! Michael also revealed we’d done the same walk on almost the same day four years - a  coincidence!

After our first coffee stop, the sun came out and we hugged the river bank, under the viaduct, with good views of Calstock,  Danescombe (and the fabulous ex-hotel there),  and Cotehele Quay. Then we started to climb slowly back up, stopping for coffee and cake at the picnic tables by South Ward farm, before making our way through open fields where Jane whooped with joy as she hit her target of 1,000 kilometres for the year – with a month to spare – impressive!

Back at the station, people were kind enough to say they had enjoyed the walk – the autumnal colours were superb and there was much banter. Most of us then went on to The Ship at Morwellham for soup, sandwiches (and of course, chips). We were very conscious of the following day being Terry’s funeral, so we toasted his memory and hoped that all would go well – in fact, it was an incredibly impressive event with a great turnout, testimony to the man and a life well lived, bless him.

Liz

WW 24th November 2021

 

The forecast is for a cold, damp, cloudy, dark evening ... so what to do? Well it's Wednesday so no choice really. Out to Two Bridges and gently along by the new stile to the always superb Wistman's. It is always better in the evening and a nice spot for a cuppa. Very little wind so not too cold after all. A warming stretch up to Longaford to the summit, of course. Now the stars start to pop out and as we wend our way the moon softly rises. A really lovely evening after all.

Did not even bother with the Two Bridges, on to the ever reliable Prince of Wales which was actually rather busy. We speculated on the drinkers at the adjacent table and reckon they are putative ice warriors getting ready to trek to the New North Pole. Mind you if they needed their fully zipped Patagonia duvets in the pub they might find it a bit of a chilly trek. And then we were amazed to be educated in the new technology which provides more than enough data for a whole evening - perhaps we will go straight to the pub in future.

We had our usual very leisurely pint and were very, very disappointed not to be thrown out - after all we always get thrown out nowadays, I think one of your committee went to the bar to complain, so hopefully in future we will get the full treatment. 

Your Committee

TWW 23rd November 2021

 

Another glorious morning, but will it last!

A bit of a slog first thing towards North Hessary Tor, pausing only to regain normal breathing, the trig point lies on top of fairly small pile of rocks that give the most fantastic all round 360° views. Must be the best in the west! Can't miss the mast either, what a structure! and what a landmark, dunno what I'd do without that, especially at night.

Fairly longish trek down the other side passing a rather special marker stone depicting the prison boundaries, there is another actually inscribed on the base of North Hess itself. Very rare! Sorry I forgot to point it out. On to Rundlestone Tor, the lovely Hollow Tor and across the Yellowmead track to admire a very tough and beautiful fir tree, my favourite! Probably someone's Christmas tree from another time when this area was a noisy hive of activity.

A few yards on Westmead quarry, one of the smallest still showed many signs of its industrial past and it also has a family connection.

Jumping over long ash leat, someone was frantically trying to attract our attention from Fourwinds car park Aha, 'twas the two who couldn't make it on time, better late than never, they joined us for our coffee break.

Walking up hill and over to King tor, across the saddle to Swell tor quarry, what a place! This is the place that produced the corbels for London Bridge and the granite kerbstones for most of the towns around here etc. Also has a sad connection to our family.

Some of us decided to descend the quarry and climb out the other side. YIPPEE! This released the inner child!

Over several paths and down to the pretty bridge to find a way past a large settlement and back to railway track by the newly repaired bridge. Longish trek back along to POW who provided a very nice lunch.

Oh and it didn't last. The low cloud rolled in and Dartmoor changed again!

Brenda

WW 17th November 2021

 

THE SPIDERS WEB

The thing about Blackdown is there are lots and lots of tracks, (a bit like a spider's web) probably not a sensible place to go for a walk in the dark. So armed with a map with the route on it and all the bearings we set off. Choices, choices, this track that track? Gibbet Hill is not too hard to find, it’s basically uphill. No one could remember seeing a gallows up here, but Brenda could remember them hanging bodies up in cages as a warning - surely not just for walking in the dark!

More choices, big track dead on bearing downhill. We should be at the gate by now, no overshot, there was a track 10 yds to our right which we should have been on. Gate located, across the road and along the stoney track for a cuppa on a bank not far from the reservoir. Now the choices became multitudinous, tracks everywhere, we are getting near the riding stables. We eventually find the track down to their impressive drive and follow it up. There must be money in horses - it must have cost a fortune. Across the road again, choice right or left to find a gate? Jon finds a sneaky track up on the bank to take us in the right direction. Lots more choices some better than others, past where Kevin used to live and back to the cars in time for a pint in the Mary Tavy.

Now what beer shall I have?

Mike

TWW 16th November 2021

 

Take 2 started to look pretty much like Take 1 which was back in September. (See blog on Sept 28th)

Mists unexpectedly swirled around but rain was definitely much finer than September's !!

We followed a similar route including St Edwards, Brag Lane, Luxton Tor and the trig point at Saddlesborough but we had coffee at Hawks Tor with clearing views. The Wotter stone rows and settling lake were circumnavigated and possibilities of Roman activity were put forward.

We then followed a higher route to Black Alder Tor and managed to get into the underbelly of the incline railway drumkeeper's building. After that we accessed the well kept, but little known, cemetery and enjoyed lunch at the Lee Moor village lily ponds before stronger drizzle manifested.

Loping downhill by now we took the private road through Broadoaks and entered Lee Woods via a local dog walking path avoiding the mysteries of the "official" footpath.

Wotter village was again part of our route and then RAF Hawksmoor and Beatland Cross.

Over 8 miles of easy walking and although no sun we enjoyed mostly pleasant conditions.

An intriguing and possibly less admired and visited part of Dartmoor in the South Hams !!!

Anne

WW 10th November 2021

 Across the border to Calstock to walk along the river bank to explore the Okel Tor Mine. Well the plan was fine but the Environment Agency had other plans for us.

The path was blocked off to enable them to breach the dyke and construct a bridge to allow water into the new ponds. So it was along the road to the “Toy Wall” and then into the remnants of the mine.

The chimney of the old brick works on the Devon bank was visible as it stood out against the sky as we walked around the old mine workings, it must have been a hard, hard life!

We then set off to cross the railway and to make our way to Calstock Church for a coffee break and explore the graveyard to find the War Graves and marvel at the miners' adventures after the local mines closed.

However it was not to be. As we approached the church we could hear the bells and we took advantage of the light in the porch for our coffee break whilst listening to the bells.

Much to our surprise we were invited in to see the team practicing for Remembrance Sunday. We learned about the half muffler and via a camera in the bell chamber able to watch the bells as they rang out across the Tamar valley.

We then retired to a very quiet but nicely refurbished Tamar Inn for the well earned pint.

You really do have to be there.

Peter M

TWW 9th November 2021

 

From Sourton Church, up over the railway bridge, and along the familiar track to the Ice Works.  Only to find a party of about a dozen people on some guided expedition (How dare they).  As the cloud descended, we headed on up to the trig point on Sourton Tor.  Fortunately, the cloud cleared a little, to give us a bit of a view.  Eastwards (and downhill) we headed to the apple crusher (well only half of one actually).  Who knows where the other half is?  Onwards to Shilstone Tor, and a break for a cuppa.  Suitably refreshed, we headed up, up, up into the clouds, and on to Branscombes Loaf.  Out of the mist emerged the grey shadow – our ninth walker, delayed by medical appointment, but now keen to demonstrate there’s nothing wrong with his heart!  Heading south, we squelched our way across Corn Ridge and Tiger Marsh to find the B17 Flying Fortress crash site.  A bit of more serious squelching saw us cross the stream and reach some higher (drier?) ground, then downhill to the peat tramway and some real “terra firma”.  Along the tramway and the path on the south of Sourton Tors soon had us back at the cars, and off to the Fox and Hounds for a well-earned lunch.

Phil

WW 3rd November 2021

 

Well Yosser's ears must have been well burnin' as they all turned up ... three squeeze boxes, a guitar, triangle, recorder and a great big noisy drum! And to cap it all some acapella singin'.

Previously; out from Joey's Lane on a lovely clear, cool evening to head straight up Sheepstor; of course. Over the top and wanderingly down the back to seek Roughtor plantation. The refurbed track is holding up well after all this rain. To Deancombe where the mighty tree has almost completely gone; hopefully not into those evil woodburners. The staddle stones made a fine spot for a cuppa and time to admire the myriad of stars. We were well impressed that some folk could pick out constellations amongst all that lot. To Middleworth, through the gate to the arboretum. Who knows how, but somehow out at the corner and back along under Sheepstor to the cars. To a very quiet welcoming Royal Oak, until ...

TWW 2nd November 2021

 

Sing! 

Oh what a beautiful morning,

Oh what a beautiful day
I've got a wonderful feeling

Everything's going my way!

And it did, well mostly ...

A brisk walk up to the scattered rocks that make up Shapley Tor, passing very good samples of hut circles and the ever sought for popular Highland cattle and cuddly calves. Oh it's enough to make you think of going vegan!.

On, on to Hookney Tor, which was so inviting that our tea/cofeeybreak was taken while the breathtaking views all around were admired. This was truly Dartmoor showing off!

We set off again heading downhill towards famous Grimspound. This place never fails in its interest and always has an eerie and solemn feel about it.

Taking an easterly path from there to Heathercombe estate, again lovely views through the woods with various pines and through the arboretum, very calming I think.

The village of Heathercombe, originally Hethercome is very pretty, one cottage that used to sell teas etc, still closed with notices of "isolating" still. Has anyone checked on them lately?

Walking more briskly now, time is running out, through several fields with isolated farms and gnarled old trees in ancient banks through to the wonderfully timeless West Combe farm, hardly touched by the wonders of 2021, what fabulous stonework and church like door, very old.

Leaving history behind, through yet more fields to reach Moor Gate and just a little further past Leapra cross, more seeable than usual, and onto main road and back to our chariots.

Nice to be enjoying a pub lunch again, it's as if lockdown never happened. Who was always last to be served and would still be eating when most were finished and going home?? No change there then!!

Brenda

WW 27th October 2021

 

It was a walk of a thousand eyes and some very nice granite stiles. As we took the footpath across the fields following Black Brook - we were followed by seven pairs of eyes. Spooky! 

Up from Welltown to join Church Road to find the footpath where once we gathered for a photo on a snow drift. Up and across the cycle track found us out on the open moor. Hundreds of eyes reflecting in our torches. Were they Halloween ghosts or just livestock sheltering from the wind? It was a lumpy bumpy walk down to find the old road track in the corner of the wall. What a beautiful footpath to guide people to Church. Wonderful old granite bridges over gullies and stiles up over walls. Then another little used path with wide granite steps took us back to join the road to the Pub open again after a kitchen update. A short but pleasant walk. We’ll come again in the daylight. 

Stella

TWW 26th October 2021

 

It’s amazing the difference 3 months can make!  This was the walk, Plan A, (in reverse) that was planned in July that eventually went to Plan C due to exceptionally hot weather.  No risk of that today – lots of lovely Dartmoor misty stuff, rain, and, oh yes a very faint and short but definitely there – sunshine!

A goodly number, we set out from Beccamoor Coombe (yes it is definitely called that), after a quick pasty count, and with the promise of no Long Houses on this trip.  Up over the wet slightly boggy Moor to the dew pond at Beccamoor Coombe dip.  Then wending our way down toward the Wedlake enclosure (Ok there was a mention that undoubtedly Wedlake farm had started life as a Long House), to follow the track up to Wedlake corner.  That stone was not a boundary stone but discovered later it was PTG1 – marking the extent of a sett granted to 2 Tavi men to quarry granite.  Then a scrabble around mine workings to find a slightly more sheltered spot for a cuppa and a donning of water proof trousers – as a precaution hopefully.

A trek up to the wonderful Langstone that loomed out of the mist at us then across to the circle, equally shrouded – at this point the trousers came into their own.  On and gently up the ridge to Roos Tor  - there are lovely views from here, really! Then on to Great Staple, that king of tors, before heading down to bypass the quarry and scurry into the Dartmoor Inn.  Pasties all ready for us but sadly no chips.

Well refreshed – it’s lovely to be able to have the pub lunch stop, sandwiches may have ended up a bit soggy! – then on for final meander along the leat and back to the cars.

Jane

WW 20th October 2021

 

We met in Bedford car park. Seven of us put up umbrellas and headed out for a very short walk in torrential rain to the URC Church in Russel Street to watch a film called incidentally, Thank You For The Rain.  It was made by a young Swedish women working for Christian Aid who wanted to show the human cost of climate change in Kenya.  Kisilu, a smallholder farmer filmed the life of his family and the devastating changes brought about by climate change. Long periods of drought followed by storms that destroyed his crops and house leaving his family with little to eat. He was an amazing ambassador for his community trying to educate his neighbours by setting up groups to encourage them to plant trees. He was taken to a COP meeting in Sweden only to be disappointed by the lack understanding and action of the world leaders.

I was left feeling shamed and embarrassed that we have so much and they are loosing what little they have. I guess we can only do what we can, recycling, eco this and that but it seems so little.

Hey Ho! We all went to the pub for a cheap Spoons beer and a jolly good chat and felt much better about it all.

Stella

TWW 19th October 2021

 

A touch of what is to be, weatherwise, I think. A challenge car wise just to get to Sandeman Bridge also.

Off we marched to the forbidden car park, and up one of the many tracks at Fernworthy; surprised there is room for trees. Shortly to come to a wonderful stone circle with accoutrements, known as Froggymead. You are not allowed to miss it, the ground was flat and well mown to show the stones at their best.

Surprise, surprise, we also gazed upon a strange dinosaury thing half hidden in the bushes, far more interesting! Thank goodness it was sleeping and we were able to creep by on our uphill climb unnoticed. Phew!!

On on to the edge of the forest where our coffee break destination was just visible in the mist, low cloud, fog, whatever! The bane of the Moor walkers life!

Down to the North Teign River and the Teignhead clapper (one of my favourites). Struggling against the wind and rain up the well-used farm track and another stone footbridge to the lonely Teignhead farm with its wonderful history. Just picture the pig lying under the kitchen table with the oil lamp on the top.

Tea was taken under the canopy of the large tree, before we retraced our steps to follow the forest boundary.

The trudge seemed endless until we came upon the Marine memorial, obviously a well thought of and respected RSM who died near this spot almost 20years ago.

Leaving the forest boundary and a well trodden path over Shovel Down and on to Kestor. Well, so I thought, wrong again. I was corrected by my trusty friends and Kestor was reached, alone and proud, for our lunch. Nothing to be seen of the wonderful scenery until as if my magic the mist parted and the sun shone briefly showing us the way to go.

Onto Middle Tor and down the valley towards the reservoir avoiding several bogs, over a couple of slippery stiles an a dodgy wall, crossing a windy nameless brook, we finally made it to reservoir path, lovely it was too, if only because we were nearly back to our cars!

PS Missed out on interesting artefacts, stones, etc so I shall do this walk again........................... But not yet.

Brenda

WW 13th October 2021

 

An evening of toads and satellites.

What a truly perfect evening to be out and about. With half a moon gazing down and the sun gently set. Out from the Yellowmeade track in the dimpsy to Four Winds and along the leat. Along, along to follow the just wonderful stone rows to where the sun had set. Round to neatly cross the Pila Brook and up to the railway. And all the time the stars kept popping out. And then a real treat as a satellite scooted over as we slowly made our way round the bend (ed. how appropriate) to the corbels for a nice cuppa. The bells of Sampford Spiney ringing out and more and more satellites zoomed above. A check, and it was Jupiter and Saturn almost in alignment with the Moon - a very very rare event. To follow the tracks and the toads to Foggintor and the tramway back to the cars.

A really fantastic evening for a nice gentle wander over a lovely part of the moor.

On to the Prince of Wales for a pint where it was even quieter than usual. We thought they were checking the light switches as it steadily got darker - but the secret was out as we left and the barlady locked up behind us!

TWW 12th October 2021

 

No Covid restrictions, no crowds of Grockles. At last we did it and what a wonderful day we had. A proper day at the seaside just like pensioners should. The sun shone and most of us found our way to the lovely little village of Pentewan. Which felt like a real lived in Cornish village. Although in the 1980’s a third of the houses in the village were holiday let’s or holiday homes so I guess there are many more now. In the past it had been a very busy harbour with, first a horse drawn tramway then a narrow gauge steam railway bringing China Clay from St Austell. There was a rolling stock of forty-two-wheeled wagons each able to carry four to five tons. The workman got one penny a ton for loading it onto the ships. 
A bit of a delayed start gave us time to enjoy coffee and cake at Netties - Little Bay Cafe. We were privileged to join in with her birthday celebrations. Even immortalised on her Facebook page. We set off at last. Up up up - Chat chat chat through the fields and woods with lovely views out to sea and surrounding countryside. On past the lost and found gardens, resisting the temptation to hop over the wall and join the paying visitors we went down down down through the woods to Mevagissy. Some of us spent a happy hour eating fish and chips and people watching while the more adventurous went on a boat trip. Wonderful! Then up up up and along the coast path back to Pentewan. 
Aren’t we the lucky ones!
Stella

WW 6th October 2021

 

The sort of thick mist and drizzle that only Princetown can throw at you. So a well trodden and familiar route was the order of the day. Out past the new distillery and across the road to find the path to Hart Tor. Down and over Hart Tor Brook to Cramber Tor, but the fairies were out having fun. No hairy stone by the track, then lots of patches of tussock and pits everywhere, but we finally found it and had coffee in the Lee of the rocks. Fortunately they don’t muck about with Trig points and we located that with relative ease, the same with South Hessary Tor and then it was back down the track past a very dark Plume for a pleasant pint in the Prince of Wales. Very good.

Mike

TWW 5th October 2021

 

An ominous drive to Meldon, heavy showers and spectacular rainbows, but the walk was completed without either.

So it was over the dam and along a contouring path above the valley to Meldon old quarry. The water was putting on an impressive display on the spillways of the dam. A quick pause by the quarry to look over the valley and wonder what the large number of brightly clad figures on the viaduct were up to. A steep climb up Longstone Hill to follow the track round to the wonderful Black Tor for coffee.
The intention was to follow the line of range poles down to the West Oakment. All went well to start with, but bracken, clitter and some amazing bonsai oaks were getting in the way of that plan. They were supposed to be firing on Oakhampton range but there had been no sound of gunfire so a bit of a trespass above the rocks to a track down, opposite Stenga Tor. A pleasant lunch in the shelter of Blacka Tor Copse then on to Vellake corner. There was some grumbling from the ranks about the climb up Homerton Hill but a lovely balcony track lead us to the footbridge over the stream and back to the cars.
Just right.
Mike

WW 29th September 2021

 

Michaelmas. On 29 September, a Christian festival that celebrates this time of year when the harvest should be gathered in. It was also of tenants who couldn't afford their rent trying to bribe the landlords (farmers) with the gift of a goose. Hence all the goosey fairs that occur in October!

So on Michaelmas evening the usual group set out from Magpie Bridge straight up under the elegant viaduct, very overgrown since last seen. Over to Uppaton Lane in a rather roundabout way and then down to find an unknown path crossing two fields arriving at an old track/lane, another surprise. On through the woods and out on to one of many lanes to Buckland Monachorum at long ash car park, never seen it so empty!!

Then it was a quick break on one the many benches so thoughtfully provided by some kind person and then taking diagonal path through head high bracken we finally found ourselves on the truly awful track to Grenofen Bridge.

The decision then to take higher back path following the river was probably not the best. It was not as I remembered it 10years ago. There were traps, fallen trees, treacherous ledges, quite an adventure in fact.

But as always after a bit of a trek we found our non eco cars and gratefully fell in to them.

All were safely gathered in! 😜

Brenda

TWW 28th September 2021

 

Dark skies collected and forecast for light showers did not seem quite matched.

Heading from Bowling Green towards Shaugh Prior we hardy four decided a quick peek into St Edward's was a wise dry sanctuary. Lovely 15th C carved wood font.

Up along Brag Lane past the old hedgerow cross and up to Shaden Moor cross.

Over the road and a search for stone rows amongst some lovely hut circles.  Skies darkened again and we headed up to the shelter of Saddlesborough Tor for a coffee break, and the trig point provided a photo stop !!

Skies darkened even further as we headed towards Hawks Tor and then on to Collard Tor and features of interest. Down into the "badlands" around Wotter Head and its then out along the old tramway track.

The mysterious Blackalder Tor revealed itself after lunch and the puzzling buildings by the tramway remain a puzzle. Maybe an incline keeper's bell tower and a drum keeper's house. Blackalder Tor and Higher Blackalder were delightful even in torrential rain.

So were Lee Moor Village views from the track. Lovely back gardens and an interesting range of buildings and sheltering sheep.

Down now to Lee Wood, it's evasive footpath and secret remnants of tramway, pipe way and valley crossing. 

As we passed through Wotter the skies darkened even further and we hastened our steps past Moorland Hotel and RAF Hawksmoor. The biggest drenching of the day past Beatland Cross socket stone and back down towards Bowling Green.

Light showers ?? Glad they weren't heavy !!

Anne

WW 22nd September 2021

 

The equinox and the last of the summer sun. 

Out from Pork Hill and steadily up Cox as the sun set over our shoulders. Down by the thufurs to the dew pond and the neat track to Roos. A fine spot for a cuppa and a fine sighting of the ISS soaring overhead. Across to Great Staple as the sunset turned the western sky bright gold. Middle Staple called slowly emerging from the easing light as the wonderful Harvest Moon rose. By Little Staple and a winding track down across the road to bend back to the cars. On to a quiet Whitty where, apart from the sanitisers, all was normal. A very fine equinoxial evening to enjoy the last of the sunlight for a few months.

TWW 21st September 2021

 

Power to TWW

We all managed to meet more or less at 10am on a cloudless and sunny day, Summer is hanging on! Powering down, over leats, passing a group of very large cows, lots of steaks there!! Apologies for any offence taken.

Following the path past Combestone Farm, over the pretty Aller Brook footbridge and onto the lower path through the woods following the pipeline from Swincombe reservoir to Venford. Lovely through there with tantalising glimpses of Dartmeet and tors galore on the other side

Down towards the waterworks and the twinkling Venford Brook for a refreshment break. We were lucky enough to have real nature lesson, buzzards, grey wagtail many emperor dragonflies defending their territories and hundreds of small fish, (trout?) next years lunch maybe? Yummy!

Powering on and upwards to the wonderfully scenic Bench Tor, utterly glorious, and then, of course, back down again! To the road to Holne and off again to follow a small winding stream, did someone say it was the leat? The man who specialises in bullseye stones found another one, bet that one's not on the map! Further on to follow the Sandy Way where we had a close encounter with a snipe before we devoured the contents of our lunch boxes. Some of us were starving!

Lunch gave us the power to power up towards Holne Ridge this time bypassing the interesting remains of Ringleshutes mine. Everyone relaxed, power gone, all downhill towards Horn's Cross, ye old meeting place for farmers to claim their sheep off the moors, scuttling fast, past Hangman's Pit, and back to our power driven cars!

A lovely day out, I reckon.

Brenda

WW 15th September 2021

 

Another fine, mild, autumnal evening where the flirties were out in abundance. Along Joey's and past Maiden and the steady pull up to Sheepstor as the sun melted away. Down, down by Rough Tor plantation and the sharp descent to Deancombe. The refurbished track is holding up very well. Through the easing bracken and out to check on the snakes - nothing there. Round and about under Down, by Little Down to Snappers. A few folk at Norsworthy but very few on these soft evenings. The track by Sheepstor back to Joey's. Rather late but some hope of glow-worms - not one. And back. A very nice gentle evening.

TWW 14th September 2021

 

The sun was shining brightly as we left home, but by the time we reached our rendezvous near OP 22 on the Okehampton Range, the clouds were gathering, and it was not long before the splendid views of the northern tors were shrouded in mist.  Undeterred, we set off south along the military road, before turning off, and heading down hill to Henry’s Ford.  Despite the usual grumblings about water crossings, all safely crossed the East Okement River, and we made our way uphill to the ridge.  Along to Oke Tor.  Sadly, there was no one selling refreshments from the kiosk, (and no horse in the stable), so we pressed on westward, back across the East Okement and up to East Mill Tor (stopping near the summit for a brew). Over the top of East Mill Tor, then down to New Bridge to pick up the track towards Dinger Tor.  On reaching the Okehampton Parish Boundary, we veered away from the track, and after squelching through some boggy terrain picked up a path that led to the top of High Willhays, and a chance to stop for lunch.  By the time lunch had been consumed, the mist had lifted, and the sun was scorching us through a gap in the clouds.  Along the ridge to Yes Tor (where another group of walkers were enjoying a lunch stop), then a north-east course to West Mill Tor.  From here we dropped down to the Target Railway, then across Black-a-ven Brook, and a final short climb back to the cars.

 Phil

WW 8th September 2021

 

Very welcoming, just like normal, except; no Axminster, no round table and Bill's chair has gone - although Bill did turn up. All in all very nice if a bit too clean - and they could have kept a picture of Henry.

Looked very promising after the thunder and lightning, patches of blue, mast clear ... But the true Dartmoor promise was fulfilled as the cloud gently descended as we left Devil's Elbow. Along the rifle range to Hart, still very, very warm. Down by the big stone and easily across to pull up to Cramber. Lots of mums and babies out and about enjoying the soft evening weather. Over the leat to Crazy Well - no wild swimmers. By the cross and along the bumpy lane to Older Bridge for a nice cuppa. Technically the sun had well set but there was still plenty of light penetrating the gloop. More bumpety bump up and along the main drag - always seems a long way. Shapes appeared out the mist - more mums and toddlers. Always nice to just walk in a small bubble of light, apparently of our own making, as the cloud sat on us. Eventually, eventually South Hessary did magically appear then down and back to the lights of Princetown.

The ever reliable Prince of Wales was a welcome sight and the pint of Legend even more so.

A real nice evening to be out on our moor, just as it should be.

TWW 7th September 2021

 

6 River Crossings and only 2 Bridges!
Another scorcher on Dartmoor, but much quieter than on Monday, (some cycling race), so we almost had the moor to ourselves. Leaving Dunnabridge Pound, following 6 youngsters who were obviously out to camp later in the
day. Were they taking part in this years Ten Tors, which because of Covid is open to teams to complete by October on their home territory? It was good to see them out and about. 

It was down to the West Dart to cross the 1st of the stepping stones, where the water was just ankle deep, and then on to the 2nd set on the Swincombe just below Sherberton. As we started the climb up to Hexworthy one of our number realised that the climb was a little easier than normal, he’d left his rucksack at the car! As he returned to collect his lunch we carried on to The Forest Inn, unfortunately too early for coffee but good to see it is operating again.
Coffee taken at Hexworthy Bridge where there were a number of people sunbathing and enjoying themselves in the river and Fern just had to join them.
It was then up and over to Dartmeet where the Chalet was open so Coffee, Iced Tea and Ice Creams were the order of the day enjoyed by the river whilst we  waited for our missing member and it was decided to have lunch whilst we had the shade. 

Then it was time to follow the East Dart up to the clapper bridge below Babeny, but with the water being so low a quick step across the stream by the stepping stones before Brimpts farm was in order. It was disappointing to see the woodland fenced off with 3 rows of barbed wire! Out via Brimpts, past the saw mill and out on the open moor heading for the Long Stone. A distinct path which must have been the access from the farm to the mine in years gone by. On reaching the track from Laughter Hole Farm it was then down hill back to the cars.
Tylo and Fern’s last walk with us for the time being as Tylo starts his apprenticeship next week, good luck to him, we will miss them both.

Peter M

WW 1st September 2020

 It was just me and ‘im set off from Zoar down to New Bridge for a lovely evenings stroll along one of my favourite bits of the Tavy. We had wonderful river views, smooth rock ledges, waterfalls and deep pools, maybe a summer swim walk? Certainly a spring flower hunting walk. We collected seeds from Devils bit scabious and Great Burnet for sprinkling on our wild bit of garden at home. Lots of different ferns the huge Royal fern and tiny maidenhair spleenwort, such a contrast in size.

There are hidden tors covered in lichen. So much to explore in this little bit of the river. You really had to be there.

Sorry no photo, we both forgot our phones!

Stella

TWW 31st August 2021

 

There was hardly any room in the car park due to all the Landmark Trust crew cabs scattered about, all getting ready for the new firing season I presume. Do we really need to pay all these people just to paint a few poles red and white?

So off down to the Cowsic ( funny name for a river that) over the badly rotting Bridge by the leat take off,  then up and over Beardown Tors. On to Lidford Tor for coffee in the lea of the rocks. The path to Beardown Man was more difficult to see than usual due to long grass but thankfully a lot less boggy. Round the head of the Cowsic and back to Conies Down Tor for a spot of lunch. Obligatory visit to Travellers Ford cross then back through Holming Beam Bottom to the cars. A fine walk with lovely clear views.

Mike

TWW 24th August 2021

 

A fresh breeze had some questioning their choice of attire on this autumnal morning but after seeing first "hidden" stones of Burrator..a benchmark ,a PCWW stone with its back to us and the 11th century Meavy parish boundary bank we, a bunch of twelve, quickened our stride southwards along the grassy path. Next sightings were of the "Andy" stone and soon after the last remaining boundary stone for the Yennadon Iron Mine. Beautiful views of a blue Burrator.

Left downhill to the old railway and a very rare triangular water stone by the gatepost.. Into the woods to Devonport leat past a shiny new mast. The edge of the leat edged subtly by granite setts from the horse railway 1823. We returned now along the railway and descended to the bridle track leading to the waterfall .The brave and curious climbed the bank to see the Yelverton Reservoir which hides in plain sight on various O.S. maps. very overgrown and dangerously gloopy.

Now along to the Discovery Centre to see inside or to wander amongst stone artefacts salvaged  from valley farms prior to Burrator's flooding. Many are incorporated into a section of the old Sheepstor Road, "Wembley Walk," 13  items in fact, including inscribed stones and archways from Longstone Manor and Roundy Park Farm dating back to  the 17th century. Collected for safekeeping by George Shillibeer between 1914 and 1937. The Wembley name commemorates a trip for the dam workers to see the British Empire Exhibition at the Wembley Stadium 1924-25..

We followed the shoreline footpath to a sandy bay for our coffee break. Some wished to relax here for the whole day!! No time to pause longer, we trotted on over tinner's spoil heaps, past the weirs and left the path to find firstly the large County stone for Norsworthy Bridge and then around the bends and back on to the shore path to see one of 8 metal PCWW markers  which predate the granite watershed boundary markers. On now to Narrator Farm and the WIFF stone and its incised cross as well as the upturned trough. 

Tummies were rumbling by now so we kept up a good pace via a busy Norsworthy to Leather Tor Bridge. This was the last clapper bridge built on Dartmoor in the 1830s , replacing stepping stones and a ford from Bronze age times. Lunch stop in the sun and  a photocall on the bridge.

The final stones beckoned, Leather Tor potato cave already well known but the fogou remained a brambly secret this time. Up on the Devonport Leat to follow along to the upper track towards Crossgate, stopping to scramble up to the stone cist and cairn. We then continued to follow the Devonport Leat with its distinctive granite lining to the the old Sheepstor Road and above to the disused railway track and Lowery road to the cars.

Over eight miles of hidden stones and there are many more to be revealed 

Anne

WW 18th August 2021

 

A lovely clear evening with a fresh breeze. Just the two of us. Down to the Lyd which was very low so an easy crossing of the stepping stones. Following the valley upstream heading in a direct line for Gren Tor. A surprisingly steep climb up to the peatworks tramway. We made a decision not to visit Gren Tor and Hunt Tor as a pint in the pub at after the walk seemed a better idea so on to Great Links Tor. Looking for a sheltered spot behind a Tor  for a cuppa we disturbed a solitary wild camper. It was then on down to Arms Tor where a lovely guy and his family of four children were out for their first wild camp and loving it!  Back to the Mary Tavy Inn for that welcome pint in a lively atmosphere - what could be better.

Mike

TWW 17th August 2021

 

It didn’t bode well. Thick cloud and strong winds, temperature, 14 degrees according to BBC Weather.

When we got out of the cars it felt more like winter than August but it wasn’t raining and visibility was a lot better than on our last visit. It all turned out rather well in the end.

We set off past the memorial to Charlotte Dymond, the young housemaid murdered in 1844 by her boyfriend. Her ghost, dressed in her Sunday best roams the moors each year on April 14th apparently. Heading south below Rough Tor we explored lots of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements before heading towards Louden Hill. Here there was a divide of interest with some going to play on the Logan stone and others, lead by Jane searching for and finding a long house or maybe two not even covered in bracken.

After coffee the next objective was a very nice stone circle. Extra Brownie points to Raz who spied it with his little monocular.

All were shushed as we crept along the forbidden track past Rough Tor farm. No barking dogs, no farmer with a twelve bore. We made it safely, Whew!

As we climbed Up, up, up to the many tops of Brown Willy the wind got stronger, some of us finding it difficult to keep vertical for a photo shot at the cairn. It was more like a mountain top in Scotland than a hill in Cornwall but the views were worth it. After lunch down, down, down and up,up,up to the saddle between Showery and Rough. Some went to join the emits on the summit while others had a leisurely stroll back to the car park to meet Rosie with her van for a very nice cream tea.

Lovely!

Stella