Belstone
It was cooler than expected. Jon wondered if his safari hat and shorts would be adequate protection against the chill. We started walking past the Tors, now closed till 5pm but a pop up kiosk serves beer and burgers from 12 to consume on the Green, we unexpectedly took the back road to Okehampton to find the footpath up to the Moor.
“We’ve never been up here” was the cry! “Yes you have” was the leader's response. “Well, you’ve all been down here before” Amazing how just reversing a walk can become a new walk especially to this lot who can’t remember what happened yesterday.
On across the fields to the gate onto the Moor. A very smart Charolais bull surrounded by his ladies sleepily watched us pass. Heading down to the footbridge over the East Okement we discovered some wonderful specimens of Butterwort.
Then up, up, up through Halstock woods where the bluebells were a little past their best but still spectacular. “Ah yes” they said. “We have been here before”
Two lovely spotted miniature horses greeted us at Lower Halstock. At last they gasped, when we stopped for coffee by the swimming pool below Scary Tor. Some refreshed their feet with a paddle but no one was brave enough to take the plunge. Maybe another time.
Over Cullever Steps and up to Winter Tor, Higher Tor, Irishman’s Wall and Belstone Tors
Finding a sheltered spot for lunch there were new views over the Tor river valley to Cosdon Hill. So much variety to be enjoyed here.
The wonderful Marion had again opened the tea shop especially for us. A very nice ending to a good walk.
Stella