WW 27th December 2023

 

Storm Gerrit blasting through and a bit of a gap. Christmas Meavy looking resplendent and the River Meavy roaring. Out along, as the huge Cold Moon popped in and out, to Marchant's Cross. The lane by Yeo and up to bluebell woods. All looks so different this time of year but the yellow dots still mark the way as they have for decades. To a very quiet Sheepstor and over the dam. Hard to know which was making the most noise, the wind in the trees or the water over the dam. Gently down to surprise a fox - neither of us expecting anyone about this time of day. And back.

So that is the walks of 2023 completed; so much variety.

WW 20th December 2023

 

You know how they say there is always something to find, something new, perhaps even a 'thing'. Never fails, whatever the weather, however dark it is, wherever you go. Well sometimes, just sometimes there is nothing, not a thing, not anything at all. And even the things that are supposed to be there, completely nailed to the ground, have mysteriously disappeared. Well this was one of those nights - perhaps the only one. Windy and rainy and very dark to set out from Peat Cot where timber is piled high (No, that does not count!). Down the track to Older Bridge and on into the rain. Down, down, down before the turn up to the cross. Crazy Well Pool was well overflowing and not a sight of a newt let alone one of those wild swimmers. They can't be really wild or they'd have been in there on a night like this. Up and over with the track steadily extending to Cramber Tor. Now with the rain on our back out, very carefully following the track, absolutely guaranteed to take us to the trig point. BUT, it wasn't there, someone had moved it or taken it down for the evening. The track continued to the beautifully manicured cycle way and on to the car. Quickly past a very closed Plume to the Prince of Wales - always open. A chat with the warriors to catch up on all their news and plans for the next 10 years. Bill was there of course and very excited about the solstice and perihelion.

So that was it, the shortest and so perhaps the darkest Wednesday of the year. Days are drawing out from now on - We Made It again!

TWW 19th December 2023

 

A dull drizzly morning for our walk start at Lowry Cross. Downhill to Welltown on the lane of increasing deterioration and to our surprise a slight lifting of the cloud and cessation of rain.

Soon joining the Princetown railway and time for a group pic by the pine tree.

Up to the Leedon Tor carparks, over the road and downhill now to coffee break at Stenlake Farm. Such a lovely place with lichen draped trees adding drama.

With the Meavy in full spate a return route along the leat was the safest path and so on to Lowry up through the woods and their "cleared" paths.

A quick drive to a local hostelry where cool temperature of chips and portion size of soup was a disappointing finish to a nice dryish morning.

Hey ho.

Anne

WW 13th December 2023

 

What a wonderful and strange night. I thought we'd been transported into a different world. Dalek like objects with blue lights with names like Beth and Will, yes, they actually had names, two on each one. Must be fun charging up your EV at 40p per KWh and paying for a parking ticket!

Out across the moors to find my fave, Hart Tor. Very strange how the night changes the terrain, tracks get lost and are found again, tors appear to disappear and appear in a different place. Just can't understand it!!
Down  past the double stone row to the metal bridge, just a bit slippy and over to Leap Falls, such a pretty little place and the falls themselves rather spectacular.
Upwards towards Black Tor, such a popular place for dog walkers and down to cross the main road weaving our way through the boggy area to my nemesis, the dreaded Leeden Tor.
No problem today so down again to the bridge to nowhere, actually Yes Tor Bridge. The skies were particularly clear, full of stars hanging in the night sky. The Geminids should be seen tonight, but alas no. Never mind. On to the redundant railway track  talking of legends and old, old stories of the stars going out, one by one until ..,..nothing!!
I was thankful to reach the good old POW for a down to earth pint.
But not before we came across not one, but two of the most ferocious and voracious predators in the pond world! Rarely seen you know.
The greater diving beetle !!!
Truly a monster.

Brenda

TWW 12 December 2023

 

Striding off from Manaton in the rain, we walked a short way up the lane before picking up a rocky track up to Hayne Down and Bowerman’s Nose.  Great views from up here over Manaton and across to Easdon Tor, the surrounding patchwork fields and the high moor beyond.  Moving on after a the obligatory group photo,  we walked on to Swallerton Gate where Brenda found a cross in a stone built into the wall of the thatched cottage.  By the time we got to the top of Hound Tor the rained had stopped and we took shelter behind the tor out of the wind.  Sandra came armed with home-made mince pies which went down a treat - yum yum.   Jane was keen to point out the remains of the longhouses below Hound Tor and obviously, not ever having seen these before, we all ooo’d and aaaah’d ;-)   Much to Jane's disappointment we took a sharp turn left towards Leighon and not straight on to the said longhouse. Nevermind Jane - next time!   More lane walking before heading in to some very old looking woods eventually coming out into the open and across a field back to the lane leading to the start.  Another excellent lunch at The Warren House Inn - Amber’s order of chips was forgotten though- sacrilege!!!   It was rectified soon enough and a sad Amber soon became a very happy Amber.  Brenda showed us her lightning quick reactions - like a Ninja Warrior - when I knocked my drink over and my raspberry crush nearly ended up in her lap!  I’ve never seen her move so fast.   

Walkers today:  Brenda, Colin, Amber, Peter M,  Peter, Sandra, Phil, Jane & Dianne 

WW 6th December 2023

 

So there we were, back in the Chesterfields by a teeny tiny red hot fire knocking back the pints.

Not been too bad a day, best check the ever reliable Met Office weather radar to see what is going on. Oh Dear Me, all blue rain soon to come battering in followed by yellow rain - whatever that is. So what to do? Well it is Wednesday, six thirty, so no choice, get your stuff on and go. Out to Two Bridges, on with all the waterproofs that can be found and through the gate. Not too bad at all - views afar and some nice warmish gentle rain. Along the track to Crockern Farm where this super duper go anywhere, do anything Land Rover rested. Now if we had one of them we would not have to go out at all! Up the gently rising track to the stile and to Little Bee. Onward with the soft rain behind to Littaford and then Longaford remembering that lovely snow walk earlier in the year. Down the track to Wistmans and out over the stile - but what is that? A big red sign warning us to 'Be Vigilant' and we hadn't been at all. In fact silly us had not even recognised the huge fire risk we had passed through. 

Worth another go, so to the Two Bridges which was very welcoming indeed. Just bad luck I guess that we got thrown out a couple of years ago. Another very pleasant evening on the moor. It is true what they say "You really do have to be there ..."

TWW 5th December 2023

 

Four of us gathered at Readymoney Cove car park keeping fingers crossed that the weather forecast was accurate for once. While the name appears to indicate a connexion to Fowey’s smuggling past it actually is a corruption of the old Cornish name for the cove-Redevan- meaning a shallow ford or stepping stones.

Our first visit was to the beach café for hot drinks and flapjacks for some before setting out across the beach to climb up to the coast path passing the Rashleigh

Mausoleum which was hidden in the trees with only the cross on the top visible.

Along the path we then looked down on St. Catherine’s Castle. There was a settlement here in the iron age and then in 1530 Henry VIII had the castle built to defend Fowey Harbour after splitting from Rome.

In the 19C it was modified during the Crimean War and then again during the 2nd World War when it had 2 Anti-Aircraft guns and an ammunition store was built.

Then along the coast to Polridmouth below the Menabilly Estate, and up to Gribben Tower. Along the path, muddier even than the week before, but views across to Par and the China Clay driers, the harbour and beach on our way to Polkerris.

Regrettably the Rashleigh Inn which had been open the week before and had signs saying it is open every day and all year, was closed. Fortunately everyone had drinks and food to keep them going.

So after a short break it was back to Readymoney via the Saints Way with just a brief shower to finish our day.

Peter

WW 29th November 2023

 

Middleworth, Snappers, Down, Hingston, Combeshead, Cuckoo Rock, Deancombe; is there a finer short walk on the moor?

After a bright, sunny day with plenty of blue sky what to expect. A fullish Beaver Moon hiding somewhere but pushing through enough light to make our way. From Norsworthy to Middleworth, like most tors looking even finer on a dark evening. Along to wonderful Snappers and up to Down. As ever, a cool breeze but fine views to Caradon and the Eddystone. Round to the fantastic stone row and on to Combeshead. By Cuckoo Rock and along past some very well wrapped sheep - bet they are glad they avoided the shears this morning. Along, along as a star popped out and then the Beaver Moon making a very fine appearance. On to the excellent Burrator Inn with really beautiful Christmas decorations. A very pleasant evening to be out on the moor - well will it, won't it, we'll see, we have had snow in November before.

TWW 28th November 2023

 

Well due to diversions and traffic jams in Princetown (yes it does happen) we all managed to miss each other at the car share but all arrived safely and on time at the RV.  Off we set past the two crosses (sorry still haven’t looked up what it’s about) and headed up to the Tor where, although there wasn’t much of it around what was about was here. (Wind in case you’re wondering).  We all agreed we’d not been here before including the leader, the view was magnificent.  We paused to admire the lumps and bumps – Bronze age reaves, part of the system that heads all the way across to Corndon and beyond.

Then it was down and he with the bare legs was heard to mutter about ‘prickly stuff’ so was put on point duty to find less of it.  “Just head down until we find the road” was uttered so we did, with a fair amount of dawdling and admiring of flora.  Some lovely bright orange things and something that looked akin to pixie brains – I’m sure someone in the know can add the details.  Eventually the road was reached and a quick walk along brought us to the intriguing stone with a hole in it and the lovely little cross with the niche.  We paused to morn the loss of the oak tree but it looks to be sprouting a bit again.

Then up the hill and of course, being my walk, to find the medieval longhouses of the old Jordan village.  We paused for a cuppa here at the Manor House.  No one at home today though.  A bit of sun graced the peaceful scene.

Then onwards and upward through more lumps and bumps – this time medieval field boundaries and fine examples of ridge and furrow. – to find a somewhat squished but definitely there Devils Fingers – first I have seen this year, yippee.  Then past some cairns to the Blue Stone.  Plan had been to head further but a gentle stroll and flora viewing decided the need to make a timely return to the cars.  Short drive down to the Old or is it New? Inn for a welcome drink and lunch.

Jane

WW 22nd November 2023

 

The forecast was just great - a clear, moonlit evening with the space station overhead. So no surprise to drive through the mist and drizzle to Whiteworks. Only one place to go. Somewhat windily across the mire and a paddle. Round by the stream and endlessly over the tussocks until Goldsmith's finally arrived. A bit better going up to the wall and over the tricky stile. Into Whealham Bottom as the moon managed to peep through the gloop and even a star. Along, along until a nice track emerged to take us down toward Nun's Cross. Round the leat and coming towards us lots of bright, bright lights; some red some green. Just what could it be? Theories included the rescue group or a jolly party out of the Plume heading for a night in the farm. Still, no matter, they weren't interested in us so back to the car. And along the road there they were, lots of soldiers bivouacing for the night in muddy puddles. And some think we are daft. The Plume was well closed so to the ever reliable Prince of Wales. A proper Dartmoor evening.

TWW 21st November 2023

 

A still, dry day - something of a rarity in these parts this autumn.  Over Fingle Bridge we went to begin the climb out of the Teign valley.  It is a fairly steep path through the trees, and, with a carpet of leaves covering loose scree, was not the easiest of surfaces for walking - though perhaps better than wading through wet tussock grass. A backward glance across the valley at one point revealed the distant Castle Drogo. There followed a gradual descent to Iron Bridge to cross the rushing River Teign. An initial gentle climb after the obligatory coffee stop took us along the Dartmoor Way and past Sharp Tor. The views all along here are magnificent and autumnal colours were prominent, even though the blue sky was lacking.  A second descent then took us back to the Fingle Bridge Inn for some welcome refreshment.

Peter

TWW 14th November 2023

 

It was great today to have a large group up for my Plymouth ‘urban coastal’ walk starting at Milehouse that was to roughly follow the edge of Plymouth Sound.

Passing the home of the Pilgrims, the green ones that is, we cut through Central Park and down near to the railway station with some us reminiscing the glory days of steam when we spotted a passing non-descript diesel crossing the road bridge.

More non-descript soon followed as we went down Armada Way, the site of some once lovely trees no longer there, sadly chopped down under cover of midnight madness. Then onward to a great spot for a group photo – the sundial. Not exactly the Trevi Fountain, Rome, but at least the sun was shining on us.

We had a little bit of history on today’s route too, cutting through John Hawkins Square promoted conversation about changing historical names to be more in keeping of today’s thoughts. We all had a view on this.

From here we soon strolled through the Barbican, with traders displaying their wares from classic Plymouth Gin to top-quality artistic glass products, all made on the premises.

Next, we passed the Royal Citadel with three artillery pieces ready to fire from upper battlements as part of a 21-gun salute to mark the King’s birthday at mid-day. I must have dropped off at this time as I didn’t hear anything!

At the Coffee Shack overlooking the Sound, we had hot drinks and the odd cake, still in the dry. Back in the day this same spot would have over looked Plymouth Promenade Pier, built by Eugenius Birch the 480-foot pier opened, after Birch’s death, on 29th May 1884 having cost £45,000. It was bombed in March 1941.

Heading towards Millbay, we passed some scale model ships/submarines from the 20^th century fixed to a wall facing Drake’s Island, a reminder of what our Royal Navy used to be like. We also went by a building that was used to process/ debrief survivors saved from the Titanic disaster; pointed out by Anne. Further down opposite the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Jon gave us the background to the old Millbay prison site built in the 16^th century for American prisoners of war before closing to move to Princetown – brilliant history info.

Via Devil’s Point, that gets its name from the treacherous tides that meet at this point (thanks for the info Phil), we went down steps to the Royal William Yard with its stone buildings seemingly built to last for ever where we thought we might get some food in the Secco Lounge, but it was not to be as it was too busy to fit us in, even on a Tuesday! However, the plan B was to go to the Cremyll Ferry Café where a fine selection of food was available.    

On leaving the café, time was not on our side, Mt. Wise and Bogey Knights would have to wait for another day. So, back to Royal Parade via Union Street it was and past the derelict Palace theatre that had its heyday before WW2, for our return buses in warm sunshine.

Charlie

TWW 7th November 2023

 

Another sunny morning, how lucky are we.

10 o'clock,  on the dot, we set out along the track just below hillside, a buzzard calling loudly as it flew straight across looking for who knows what. On past  Longash Farm, no-one around, just sheep, through the gates and down to the picturesque temperate rainforest known as Longásh Wood. The river crashing over the rocks in a hurry to join the Walkham, spectacular as always. I wonder what the mangled collection of pipework used to do?
On past the lower reaches of Hucken Tor, admiring the oak tree festooned with usnea articulata lichen. Just like a Christmas tree!
Past Davytown and to a rather long dreary lane, lovely views though, and on 'til Ward Bridge. Two lovely C stones here, thoughtfully cleared of weeds, moss leaves .
We watched the mighty River Walkham tumbling through and played poohsticks. wheeeee!!
Refreshments needed, we stopped in the peaceful Hilltown Woods, just the sound of rushing water below us.
Sun still shining!
Passing round the back of Sampford Spinney and out on the moors, following the track beside the wall until Vixen Tor hove into sight. Sadly still private property, never mind, one day..........
On, on to my chosen pub, rather expensive,  not really much choice for us down to earth people, nice chips though. I was still hungry after my bruschetta, oh dear!
Oh and it's still dry!!!!

Brenda

WW 1st November 2023

 A real proper Dartmoor evening to be out with Ciarán gently barrelling in. Out from Joey's Lane where sometimes there are glow-worms - not tonight. Through the gate to get the benefit of the weather. Steadily up to Sheepstor disturbing a Jack Snipe on the way. Quite a nice blow and wet on the top. Down the back with lights at the Scout Hut and further. Easily following the edge of the woods as the wind whistled in the trees. By the stile and into Rough Tor Plantation. Always a great place for fungi and plenty around this evening. Along by the windy track then just what is this? A huge, smooth road - yes its those pesky loggers at it again. They seem to be able to find trees just everywhere in a forest. Round and down and then a loud 'crack' as a tree fell. I always wondered what noise those snapped trees made when they came down and now I know - always worth going out. By Narrator Farm and round under Sheepstor and back. A jolly exciting evening.

TWW 31st October 2023

 

WW 25th October 2023

 

It was a good night to be out and about at Cox Tor CP. Not bad at all, lovely twinkling lights all around, some red turning to green and vice versa. Just like Christmas!🎄

The apple crusher is still there. We still wondered about it! The moon flirted with clouds and showed herself intermittently, so romantic you know.
On, on to the romantic Windy Cross with the leat water rushing through and over the bulls eye. The light just right for an atmospheric photo.
Straight on to Feather Tor and on to Heckwood Tor.  Now where the heck was it?  My navigation did a wobbly, as did my temper but eventually went in the right direction. I blame my app myself. It goes where IT wants not where I want.........
From there onto Pew to listen to wonderful church bell ringing out with gusto and to have a drink etc. I could have done with a sherry myself.
Going down diagonally  to find a crossing place over the leat and back to Windy Cross.
From there, straight over the very popular Barn Hill and back to the cars. Funny, the car park was full of  vehicles of varying sorts, and flashing lights. Must be the rescue group again.
The Whitty made us welcome and we enjoyed a beer and chat.
All's well that ends well!

Brenda

TWW 24th October 2023

 

The rain had stopped, but there were still some threatening clouds in the sky as we arrived at Lew Trenchard school.  After the usual discussions about “what to wear” and putting on or taking of different items of clothing, we set off.

Across the old A30 and down the road we headed, then followed the Two Castles Trail, across a field and down a very sunken green lane to Lew Trenchard manor.  Past the walled garden with its fine crop of leeks, then down the track past Quarry Farm.  Opting for the footbridge rather than the ford, we crossed the river Lew then squelched our way across the water meadow and into Lew Wood.  Taking the forest track, we climbed steadily up, before descending the other side of the hill to Coryton Barton.  Taking the road to Coryton gave us great views of the Lew valley, and despite suggestions that it must be coffee time, we stuck to the leader’s grand plan and kept going to Coryton Church.  After a look inside, we found a sunny spot in the church yard for a brew.

Suitably refreshed, we headed off down the road towards Coryton Mill, turning off just before the mill to take the track over Cory Hill.  Some track, (well more of a canyon), deep with vertical sides, whether a natural feature, the result of erosion from horses and carts or some quarrying activity who knows. Over the hill, down to Cooper’s Cross then along the road to Eastcott. Into Eastcott Plantation and uperty up, up, up past Eastcott Beacon to the top of the hill, where we found an ideal spot for lunch.

Once “re-fuelled”, we headed across the Field to Lew Wood, and downhill to the retrace our tracks back across the River Lew, and up to Lew Trenchard.  Stopping at the church to see the tombstones of Grace and Sabine Baring-Gould and the fine 1520 Rood Screen reconstructed by Baring-Gould at the end of the 19^th century.  Past the Lew Trenchard Manor Hotel, with the smell of fine cooking wafting up from the kitchen.  Up the bridle way past Down House and Woodlands to the old A30, then past the sad spectre of “Jethro’s Club” and back to the cars.  All the way round without a spot of rain!

Phil

WW 18th October 2023

 

Not the most promising of evenings - but something always turns up ..

Waterproofs on and out from Norsworthy. Looks like there is to be more felling. By the lane to Lethertor Bridge and on to Raddick. Not too long until we popped out onto the open moor and muddled our way across to Crazy Well Pool - the only wild swimmers this evening, lots and lots of newts. Up to seek out the rushing leat and along. The mist blew in and out with cars on Peek Hill sometimes in view. Slip sliding down by the falls to the aqueduct. But just what is that? The wee bridge beside the aqueduct has been rebuilt with silver gates each end and huge railings to stop you falling off. (All seems a bit over the top.) At each end a granite pillar with these strange copper 'pennies' struck into them. Still, time presses, down along past a nice big toad and down down to the Meavy planks. Just contemplating on the lateness and scarcity of good fungi this year and there they were - perfect fly agarics - wonderful. Chatting about this and that when out of the gloom big burly figures loomed. Soldiers in full camouflage, certainly made us jump. Back to the reliable Burrator Inn - perhaps all pubs should have a pool table - and Wild Boar and Apple crisps.

TWW 17th October 2023

 

A pleasant stroll through coastal heathland near Bude.

We met at Crooklets Beach in the car park behind Rosie’s. Half the price of the Council one next door. Coffee to get us going. It would have been rude not to. Then out to find the coast path to take us up and across Mear Down to ‘The Bungalow’ now grandly called Northcott House, a wooden building which looked like my old village primary school. At Northcott Mouth we headed inland following an old track up Bucket hill, resisting a second coffee stop at the very attractive Horse Box. The track lead us through an overgrown bridle path where an odd pink campion lingered. We will do this again in the spring when it is reputed to be “a wild flower fiesta” or so it says in the AA book written by Des Hannigan, Raz’s brother in law.

Onwards across fields of recently harvested crops to join the road to turn left towards Sandy Mouth. Only 11.30 so we had a wander across the wide expanse of beach, quite wild and windy.

A very pleasant lunch was enjoyed in the National Trust Café. Alas no crab sandwiches on today.

We headed back following the coast path to Northcott beach then inland again to find a lovely old lane through a wood to meet the road back to Crooklets. Some headed home. Others found a view over to Maer Lake Nature Reserve. Only a few ducks and Canada Geese to see through binoculars today but Jon found a very exciting ‘thing’! Then we had ice cream and were serenaded with live music. A very nice day somewhat marred by being greeted when I got home by my next door neighbour saying “Raz has gone to Derriford!”

Stella

WW 11th October 2023

 

A misty mizzly evening to set out from the Scout Hut. All quiet, no sign of any soldiers - but perhaps they were all very good at hiding. Out along Edward's and on to quite a spooky Ditsworthy. By the track and the stream up to the magnificent standing stones. The track onward always seems like a long way but, this evening, it was interminable - until we got there. Still very mild for a cuppa atop Higher Hartor Tor - the promised rain still to arrive. Across to Eylesbarrow mine and down the bumpy road. And slowly the rain did arrive and by the time we got to the cars it was quite ploppy. To the Royal Oak where Stephen is still in charge for a couple of weeks - we will see what happens after that. Unfortunately we were just finishing our drinks when the Morris Folk bowled in so we missed the melodious music.

TWW 10th October 2023

 

A silvery morning on the Tamar as we met up for a silvery day amongst the silver lead mines. Much healthier at Weir Quay now without the fumes from the 18 furnaces !!

On to the actual Weir Quay and views of elderly water craft awaiting their make overs.

Along past the fragile hulk of the Merganser at Holes Hole before climbing up and up along the woodland path through clouds of hornets and soon to the South Hooe mine and choice of paths.

At South Hooe Cottage we were welcomed by Prue and with a guide sheet in hand we followed the trail route towards a diversion through the newer orchards.

Nearing coffee time we stopped to harvest apples and bullaces as per our hosts instructions before continuing through grassy meadowland parallel to the winding Tamar's shore and views of Halton Quay and later, Pentillie Castle. 

Lunch later by the newest bird hide and the reed beds engineered to soon be reclaimed by the swirling tides. Cattle egrets already spotted and many more new avian guests are expected to join the increasing insect, bird and bat populations.

Leaving the reserve there was a long climb up to Hewton where mine manager Johnson once worried about the failing health of the silver lead miners. And then we were winding our way down through more mining activity at Cotts to Weir Quay and the old silver lead factory where those furnaces roared and, in more recent times, a jam factory processed a kinder harvest from this land of riches.

Anne

WW 4th October 2023

 

It was so good we did it again only backwards plus those that did it last time couldn’t this time and those who didn’t, could!

So off we set from Bere Ferris Harbour. The river was still, no wind again but dark set in much quicker after only two weeks. So along the footpath by the river into the woods - torches on - finding the crossed paths - left - up up up to Hole Farm. Two green eyes followed us through the farmyard. Out onto the road, the lights of Saltash so close. Down to find the footpath around the Maize fields. Different again, the maize had been harvested, only stubble left. Lots of Daddy Long Legs, bats in pursuit. Then joy of Joys - a Barn Owl perched on a gate. He silently flew away as we approached.

Down the old lane festooned with Hips, Haws and Holly berries.

It’s always different even when it’s the same.

Stella

TWW 3rd October 2023

 

What a determined bunch we are!

No matter what "highways" throw at us, grit, determination, and a satnav will always get us to the right car park.
Just a little late and the car park filling up with other walkers, we set off to the picturesque Haytor quarry.
Must have been such a busy noisy place, but so tranquil now, bathed in sunshine. Some of of the old machinery still gradually rusting away, our main man unable to resist his inner child, decided to crank the old cog wheels around. They creaked and cranked much to his satisfaction, but not before one foot slid into the clear quarry water. Did he not know the leeches were waiting and desperate for their morning break.
Up and out to Haytor rocks for OUR morning break, fab views and on to Holwell Tor, more views. We could see our path below but how to get there. Two of our group found the easy way down, while the real toughies took the challenging way down. It certainly was too.
At last into small wooded valley where the Beckabrook meandered. It was so peaceful . It was warm and sunny. Someone suggested lunch.
No one disagreed. So we had lunch basking in a mini semi-tropical zone.
Sadly lunch finished, we had to leave going upwards towards and skirting round Greator Rocks. Wonderful chunk of rock with views towards Houndtor medieval village. Back down again, over the Beckabrook again coming out and up again to try and find the famous Duke of Somerset boundary stones, or at least some of them. There are about fifty of them I think.
Up and up, looking here and looking there.
Where are they? damned elusive things.
Again, some got bored and found they're own way. (I wonder what Misty would would have made of that? She liked us to keep together)
Jon found a small track amongst the dozens of, actually I think it might have been a reeve, makes sense as we were looking for boundary stones, all with rather royal names like Prince of Wales, Albert and Victoria.
Before we knew it we were back at the cars, meeting up with the breakaway group who very cleverly found rows of what looked like megalodon teeth.
They just love to take the Mickey, love'm  xx

Brenda

WW 27th September 2023

 

TWO OLD SCHOOLBOYS IN THE MIST.

It was due to be be wet and windy - and it was - misty too. So keep the wind on your backs when up high. The three Staples followed by Roos. A sheltered spot for a quick coffee. Now, the north slope of Roos can be a nightmare of jumbled rock especially in the dark but there is the line of an old boundary wall which gives a relatively easy way through with fingers crossed and the aid of a compass we found it. The plan was to go over Cox Tor next but that was wind in your face, so we chose the valley up to the dew pond ( I always thought this looks like a glaciated valley - U shaped, facing north, no stream ) Then on back to the cars. The Witty was very quiet until the boys in red arrived looking very dry!

TWW 26th September 2023

 The forecast was for light showers followed by thunderstorms - be prepared!

The red bus turned up right on time and the kind driver let the elderly delay scanning their bus passes. Into a very quiet Old Police Station Café for a very nice breakfast accompanied by the mandatory Henderson's. Time to wrap up and face all the elements could throw at us. Along the track to South Hessary with the odd glimpse of sunshine far, far away. The trig point bobbed in and out of the mist on the ridge but was soon attained. Over to bog bean central to check all is well and on to Cramber Tor. Down the track and most niftily across Hart Tor Brook; a nice sheltered spot for some snacks by the hairy stone. Up to Hart Tor as the weather eased and the promise of sunshine. Down and over the plank and up to Black. By now it was getting really warm, so up to Leeden and along by Little Leeden to admire all the stone circles and standing stones. So back to the cars on what was quite a summery day, not a spot of rain and very warm. However the cunims were building as we headed home - a foretaste of a storm to come?

WW 20th September 2023

 

Short but Sweet

It really was a gentle walk this time on a gentle evening. We set off from the the Old Plough, the river as still as a mill pond, the tide coming in. No wind, a pleasant 14 degrees.

Up the road towards the  Shutecombe track but not that way this time. The next footpath opposite the playing field. An old country lane lead us to the footpath across fields but it was lost among the giant maize so we walked around the edge and eventually found the road. Then up towards Shanghai-La but not for us tonight, turning right through Hole Farm and down into Hallowell woods, finally popping out on the road to find our way back to the village along the river. The tide high now and getting quite dimpsy. The Lower track was well under water so we took the higher footpath. It was magical. Mist over the river like a Turner painting with half submerged old boats. So quiet we could hear a robin singing his goodnight, an owl, geese and ducks and the distant sounds of traffic from Tamerton Folliet. Not far as the crow flies.

And so back to the Pub. Open but quiet too, not the vibrant pub of Maggie’s monster pies I remember from the past.

Stella

TWW 19th September 2023

 

A damp day but eight cheerful TWWs set off..up Church Hill..flowery cottages, grassy cobbles, the charm of Calstock. Soon sharp left towards the station in a drizzly tunnel. Along the beautifully kept station platform and over the railway, dropping into lanes and paths of Higher Kelly and its fascinating Tamar views.

Leafy tracks led us over and under the incline railway and beyond into Danescombe Valley. Robot lawn mower, daffodil packing sheds, historically "manured" strawberry slopes, copper mine, a saw mill, gnome guarded tunnel at Mispickel and on to Cotehele for coffee and more, and then down through the lush valley gardens.

Back along the river track past the Georgian Danescombe Hotel /House (once Ashburton Hotel reflecting mine ownership at the time).

A pause at the pottery "shop" resulted in a slight flurry of purchases and then on to the Tamar Inn past the incline railway "control" hut and various micro land marks, a milestone,  boatyards, railway carriages and studio.

Lovely lunch at the Inn.

And aren't we so lucky to have this and more (and the moors) on our doorstep?

We will return in the Spring.

 

Anne

WW 13th September 2023

 

A flirty, batty, newty sort of evening.

A most pleasant evening to set out with a gentle cooling breeze. Time to explore the distillery where the really huge copper stills are standing proud. And what a sight they will be when the sun strikes through those big windows. Up to North Hessary as the light faded; well clouded over so little chance of a sunset. But at the trig point what should happen but the sun emerging from beneath the clouds - how can that possibly happen? Plenty of light left to spot Hollow, so nicely down. Just how anyone at all could fail to find it is a mystery - must be a right numpty. Down to Yellowmeade and along the track to Foggintor. No signs of any campers - all gone back to work I guess. Up by the edge of the quarry to find the higher track. And along we went as the light faded. So, after falling over a couple of rocks, time for torches. So all chuffing along quite nicely. as the breeze eased and flirties flew around. Then, what can that be, all around us, they must be birds, but no - bats. Lots and lots of bats having a meal - how fabulous. So, surrounded by bats along to the wood and down to Meavy Head. Lots to see; whirlygig, leeches, pondskaters ... By the track and the mucky brook. And eagle eyes started spotting newts, lots of teeny tiny newts. and slugs, lots and lots of slugs. And a larger newt beautifully posing for a pic. How super! To the Plume for a pint and a very warm welcome. A full explanation of all the work done and still to do costing loads. As ever, a very full and exciting Wednesday evening.

TWW 12th September 2023

 

The sun was shining, but there was a cool breeze – ideal weather for a walk.  We left the Fox and Hounds and headed up the track to Nodden Gate.  Through the gate, and off in the direction of Great Nodden.   After skirting round on the peat works tramway to the west of it (saving our energy for later), we followed the course of the River Lydd till we reached the upper traverse of the tramway.  Once across the river we headed up hill to Gren Tor.  Here there was a debate as to whether it was time for coffee, but those in need of refreshment won the day.  Suitably revitalized, we followed the track over the horizon to Hunt Tor.  The logan stone provided plenty of amusement for a “group rock”!  Heading south-westward down the slope we encountered a lone walker (the only one we were to see on the open moor all morning).  Across the tramway and a steady assent to Links Tor.  Here we posed for the obligatory “team photo”, before descending to Arms Tor.  The sharp eyed spotted a number of Devil’s coach horse beetles (Staphylinus olens) which were rather reluctant to pose for the camera.  From Arms Tor, we headed north to avoid the clitter before picking up a track back to the Lydd.  Thanks to the recent dry weather the river was easy to ford, and in no time we were back at the Fox for a well-earned lunch (including chips which were much improved from our last couple of meals here!)

Phil.

WW 6th September 2023

Filmed near Meldon and set initially in the early weeks of the 2001 Foot and Mouth epidemic, David Fielder and Nigel Hastings play farmer and vet in "And Then Come The Nightjars".  And indeed they did.

Nervously we prepared to be traumatised but the tragic culling was dealt with appropriately and we watched the story of friendship between the men evolve through their personal difficulties and beyond,  and until the churring noise of nightjars is heard again.

Film over it was time for the "walk" From the Wharf carpark , past a Lamborghini and to the Bedford Hotel and after a refreshing drink the walk back to the cars. No Lamborghini ! And thankfully, no nightjars to be heard !

Anne

TWW 5th September 2023

 

Dartmoor at its best today, hot but not too hot! Cooling breeze "on top"  a bit humid in the valley but just right in the shade. Near on perfection!

The "famous five" set out on the longer scenic route to Leapra Cross, via the fabulous Lettaford (what fab stonework and longhouses) across fields to the easily seen cross.
More field's past Moorland farm where the owner made sure we didn't go wrong, God forbid! What did she mean!!
More fields and to the timeless and picturesque Combe farms, someone should paint them substituting rusting old cars instead of hay wagons, which of course are parked safely in the Linhay.

More fields till we get to Lower Hookney where fallen trees offered a comfyish place for coffee/cold drinks etc. Amazing tree formations.
Charlie found "a body" half hidden in one, ahhhh !!  Best left there until we  finish our walk.

On on up the steps, down the steps past the massive stone gatepost, down past Lower Hookney, Kendon to Glorious Heather Combe village with its picturesque longhouses, now  people's homes and businesses. On through the well kept track through the estate chatting to the forester about the assortment of trees planted there. We progressed on till, horror of horrors, the mariners way was blocked by overgrown vegetation. What to do? Well as you know "when the going gets tough, the tough get going". So the resourceful Liz led us  to the next level path through very rough ground . We all suffered a touch of the "Morwellham leg" And needed a sit down to recover.
Path nice and easy till our way was barred yet again by a chain across. "Sod that " said this badass and roughly threw it aside, don't worry the fine upstanding citizen amongst us put it back!
Natsworthy boundary stone inspected and lunch consumed under the shade of an old oak tree.

Now up and up, past Berry pound on the other side of the East Webbern river and on to the memorial stone of the airmen who sadly lost their lives in a plane crash in March 1941. returning from France. 
Stunning Grimspound next, always interesting and upwards to Hookney tor. What fantastic and glorious views, what heaven! Onwards again to Shapley tor and downwards, thank  goodness,  towards the car park that never seemed to get any closer.
Finally the car park full of strangers wanting to know how to get to Pwllhelli !!!! Whaat?
Who cares we had  our best reward
A WILLY'S ICE CREAM 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦

PS. If I've "borrowed" anyone's words it must be, we all been walking together for too long. 😂

Brenda

TWW 29th August 2023

 

Not exactly The Famous Five of Enid Blyton, but today’s five set off in light drizzle keeping Bennett’s Cross to our left and a distant Birch Tor to our right.

Our starting path took us to Two Moors Way, then for a short while to cross the Firth Bridge Road and up to the gateway and path that led steeply down through Coombe Down, a path that provided us with a convenient stopping place adjacent to an old building for a cuppa on our descent to the farm of West Coombe where we again picked up the Two Moors Way to progress to Moor gate,

Over a style near Leapra Cross gave access to lush grassy fields with sheep and cattle giving us the eye for daring to cross their home patch, and onward to Lettaford to pick an old trackway. 

The trackway, via some gentle stream crossings, came out at Jurston where a man eating a pastie, whilst ignoring a lively Pointer dog, shared a few words with us. The area had various classic stone buildings, as did this walk in general along other parts of the route.

From Jurston, across more fields, we came to Lingcombe, a settlement we visited previously where most farm buildings were then derelict. Some of these buildings have now had vast sums of money spent on them to make desirable properties, more money is still required though!

Passing the next farm buildings of Hurston we soon stopped for our lunch sitting on a large log that was large enough for ‘the five’.

Suitably refuelled, we set off now ever upward to turn left across Chagford Common (trying to avoid gorse) passing the double stone row parallel (nearly) with Hurston Ridge, with our last path coming out just up from the King’s Oven.

Not suitable cooking conditions for the King today, but it was very suitable for an interesting walk!

Charlie

WW 23rd August 2023

 

We three gentle ladies thought we were going on a gentle walk through the woods around Morwellham.

It started well as these thing do. Up to the Rock, nice views over Gunnislake and Delaware. Then along the AONB cycle track to the Tavistock Canal Tunnel Portal. The track narrower than before, vegetation closing in. Then over the road past the reservoir,  fine!

Then things started to get a bit brambley. Haven’t been along here for a while but it’ll be fine, just a few fallen trees to negotiate. Brenda had a bit of trouble with her little legs, over and under. Then another tree down. That wasn’t here last time I came this way, over ok but where was the path? Under branches, through vegetation. OK we’ll take that old track up to the big main track. Not far, just a few brambles and nettles. Another tree down, up a slippery cliff. Brenda in survival mode now, no shouting or screaming - quiet - Scary!  Then there was the track just a 6ft jump down. I told them we were nearly there.

Then we met a man sitting on a fence. An easy walk back along the railway track. Quite dark now. Anyway the Pub was still open so a beer and a friendly dog to make a fuss of.

All was well.

We did ok for old biddies and we had a little adventure. The wounds are healing nicely thank you.

Stella

TWW 22nd August 2023

 

Catch it while you can ... Superb weather to take the Dartmoor Explorer from Two Bridges. It was really busy. And out to Postbridge to have a brief peruse of the wonderful visitor centre. Steadily up and out over Braddon Lake to the open moor at Broadun Rocks for a nice tea stop. A guy there was part way through running 12 marathons in 12 days - wooo. Along the wall as the sun shone brightly and up to Samuel (Braddon) Tor. The sheep trods took us down and softly across the top of Hollowcombe to Brown's House - still unoccupied. Easily over the West Dart and up the wide, wide highway to Rough for a spot of lunch. A lovely cooling breeze and views to forever and beyond. Crow Tor beckoned so we made our way on the super soft ground where lots of ponies were enjoying the air. Back over the West Dart and along to Wistman's. The Buller stone was very clear today and quite a few people were enjoying this traditional English summer. Back along by Crockern Farm to the cars. A most pleasant day to be out and about. Nice and warm, springy underfoot, lovely clouds and sunshine - Nice,