A sunny morning for a select four to stride away from the dam and soon past the Discovery Centre to join the lakeside path. Calm and still, ideal for the wheelyboat to cast off with its wheelchair fisherfolk.
A large slug and a minute froglet took our attention on the ground and then we were on to the road by Norsworthy Bridge. Up on to the farm track and a welcoming coffee break bench at Middleworth Farm. Last occupied by three soldiers who were employed by Plymouth Corporation to grow potatoes there at the end of the First World War.
On up to Deancombe Farm where the trees are changed by storms and high bracken disguises the ruins.
A steady climb through the bracken and drizzle to Down Tor and a lovely hut circle (a cist and further circles to be sought another time). Following the footpath through the tors we settled under Middleworth Tor for some lunch and stayed dry under the trees.
The route back included the Arboretum's edge and Joey's Lane to reach the lake shore and back past the ducks to the dam. Such a lovely place.
Anne