TWW 19th May 2026

 

A drizzly start and miserable forecast for the Lostwithiel to St Winnow walk.

A slow beginning,  with a lorry to creep round on to bridge, and then level crossing barriers coming down before we headed south and soon turning right on to a smaller track.

Building projects to be admired and a steep rocky lane with its mini ford and bridglet to slither down. A path off right chosen with splendid views of the grand Newham House and herds of sheep, cows and calves on our side of the valley.

Now came a stile into dark woodlands where all hell must have broken loose in January gales.

We went over/ under /around eight fallen giants not without some difficulty. Eventually we exited the nightmare assault course and through the boatyard to a coffee stop on the pontoon.

Next we went in to the ancient church of St Winnow Barton with its carved bench ends, "tricky" bells and 400 year-old stained glass windows.

On the road again we didn't get far, an amazing farm museum to tour, a farm stall and a closed-on-Tuesdays snack shack.

Time to speed up and again the level crossing barriers were down !

 A swift hike up through the town to a nice lunch at the Royal Oak in Duke Street. 

And we'd seen "Unseen Cornwall " on a surprisingly fine day  !!

Anne

WW 13th May 2026

 

Will it rain?

Will anyone turn up?
Will the pub be open?
So many questions!!
But in the words of our leader "It'll be fine!"
Walking up to North Hess, all very dry with mysterious piles of rocks everywhere! Views from the trig point are breathtaking even on a dull evening. More shades of beige than shades of grey.
Down towards Hollow Tor, a great tor, I think, usually provides shelter for sheep.
On to Yellowmead track where the old quarry buildings are gradually falling down.
Up and over Foggintor Quarry, peering over the edge to find all is well apart the ravens' nest on the rock face.  Several years it's been missing, such a shame.
Down the long packhorse track which usually has sheep, ponies and cattle. But today, none.
Is this what rewilding means?
Will be a sad sad day if that happens.
Back to the track, but the bubbling spring was no longer there either.
Walking faster, straight down to back door of the P of W, straight in and ordered our drinks.
Success at last!.
All's well that ends well!!

Brenda

TWW 12th May 2026

 

Just, so, so perfect.

You can never be totally sure, it seems to move about by a week or so each year. But this year - perfect; and loads and loads of people out to enjoy them. Both Holwell Lawn and Emsworthy absolutely full of bluebells. Can there ever have been a better year for bluebells? Just as well we only had two cars, as any more and we would have struggled to park. Down to Emsworthy with bluebells in every field as far as we could see. Round by the beautiful mire and, with a nice tea stop, up and out to the top road; lots of cars parked there. Down through Holwell Lawn - the bluebells are absolutely breathtaking. To the beautiful new clapper bridge and along; even the wet places were quite dry. And back to Emsworthy - fabulous. Back and on to the The New Old Inn with a very warm welcome and a fulfilling lunch.

A super morning on the moor.

WW 6th May 2026

 

Four Winds.

And no wind for a change. Across the stream to the Pump House then cutting round the block of enclosed land to a standing stone by the wall enclosing the prison land. Following this with memories of a past wet foggy night trying to find a way through awful tussock and a seemingly never ending barbed wire fence. But tonight was different, even the squelchy bits along the wall were dry. So on to Great Mis Tor to sit near the top for a cuppa, with no wind and beautiful views of the slightly misty surrounding moors. On down through the clitter to a stile into the Merrivale newtake, now much better grazed than in the past so easy going. Back out over another stile to find a lovely little path to take us back to the cars.

The Dartmoor Inn looked open but we opted for the Witty where we knew they still sold “beer”.

Mike

TWW 5th May 2026

 At the bus stop: “Did you get my message” said the lady in the dressing gown.  “I overslept, I’m not joining you”. (It could have been a sketch from Monty Python!)

The bus arrived, and we were whisked off to the old “Cherry Brook Hotel” to start our walk.  Across Muddilake, over Muddilake Brook and on to Prince Hall.  Skylarks larking, Cuckoos cuckooing and swallows swooping.  Could it be that spring has arrived?

Over the bridge and down the track past Moorlands farm,  then a detour to find the remains of the engine house of the West Dart Arial Ropeway  (aka The Brimpts to Princetown Aerial Ropeway) .  An ideal stop for a brew.  Suitably refreshed we pressed on to “Fairy Bridge” to find one and a half fairies in residence.  Somewhat drier here than it was when we visited back in December   Retracing our steps, we stopped to investigate John Bishop’s House.  Then, following the bridle ways parallel to the River Swincombe we arrived at Strane River, and a pleasant spot for lunch.  Past Whiteworks, South Hessary Tor and back to Princetown in time for afternoon tea .  Despite the weather forecast and the threatening dark clouds, not a single drop of rain all day 😊

 Phil

WW 29th April 2026

 

Fabulous

Out from the school, along the lane and past Yeo. Steadily over all the stiles and there they were, gleaming in the fields. Over the ladder stile and the aroma was amazing. Full, full of bluebells, absolutely perfect. Not a time to hurry, a nice gentle ramble up and through. A couple of cows were there softly grazing looking rather guilty that we saw them. They rushed up into their field and as we passed slowly made their way back. Down into Sheepstor to Joey's Lane. Over the double stile where the overgrown footpath has been cut back for the Horseshoe Run - nice. To the seats by the dam, and a sheltered spot from the brisk breeze, for a cuppa. The goose was snoozing as we made our way round and back.

On to the Burrator Inn in good time - quite busy. The new Spring menu is out and looks rather tempting. The soon to be full Flower Moon was shining brightly as we made our way home.

Very nice.

TWW 28th April 2026

 

Wow, what a treat!  Ten walkers kindly came to my first walk in months, it was great to meet and catch up again. What a lovely lot the TWWers are! Shame Charlie, the Collars and Dianne couldn’t make it, but just as well as there was little parking available at the station.

Setting off at a fair pace, we walked past old daffodil fields planted probably before the First World War, with some daffodils still blooming. The path down through the woods was snowy with wild garlic, even more than last year. By Tuckermarsh Quay we checked the topiary and were disappointed that the ‘snail’ was looking rather sad.

The wind was too cold to stop for coffee in our usual place, so we continued in dry weather along the Tamar foreshore (part of the Tamar Discovery trail), gazing longingly towards the Cornish side and the former hotel at Danescombe, which looked really smart. Without my crib notes in hand,(I’d forgotten them) we talked a bit about the construction of the amazing viaduct in 1904-7, connecting the railway from Bere Alston to the East Cornwall Mineral Line.  Just as if ordered, a train crossed it and Anne took a great photo. The ferry across to Caslstock would make part of an interesting walk, but I hadn’t ordered the right tide, so no chance today!

After noting the chapel in the woods above Cotehele, where Richard, Earl of Edgcumbe and a Royalist, managed to outwit his enemies by throwing his hat in the river so they assumed he’d drowned, we stopped for coffee at the picnic tables by Ward Mine, now overgrown with nettles. Are we the only ones to use them?

We pressed on through South Ward Farm and rediscovered the handkerchief tree, looking glorious. Then we plunged through Braunder woods and started the steep incline to Braunder Farm, stopping for lunch with a glorious view of the Tamar looking towards Halton Quay of BBC fame (that dreadful ‘Beyond Paradise’ programme with the great local views).

And thence to the station again. So good to see the group. Many thanks for coming along.

Liz

WW 22nd April 2026

 

Short walk this beautiful evening.
Short but dramatic. Oh yes!
Three of us made our way down Two Bridges road towards prison leat (part of Devon port leat) where I was saved by Stella from being run over.
Didn't see it or hear it. Oh dear, and it wasn't even electric!
Over the wall to the relative safety of the leat footpath. Said leat very well maintained but for how much longer I wonder?
Through the gate that warns us we are now on Duchy property..... So!
Remember when Raz wondered on to the prison enclosure and couldn't get out? That was so funny.
Taking the sometimes boggy path down to the clapper by the river and on to Eleven Arches (viaduct).
Seems to be higher and narrower now than it was but it was crossed safely on the path. To think back in the day, the children used to cycle over it.
Looking up, there it was, a red kite wheeling around and round mobbed by a mob? of crows.
Carrying on following the leat until it reaches the weir, locally known as Boys Pool.
Backup the track to look at the two cemeteries. The American, impeccably kept, the French not so much.
Following the forbidden path around the prison wall we were met by a security man who appeared to be holding a gun! Stella thought it was a skateboard!  Reality, it a bit of plastic garbage he'd picked up.
"You shouldn't be here" he says.
"Sorry" I say " we took a wrong turning but didn't think it would matter as there are no inmates".
"Yes it does "he says.  Anyway we enjoyed a nice conversation about cemeteries and kites before we were pointed in the direction of the road.
So, will we get a drink tonight in the Prince or won't we?
Front door locked, back door open....yay! In we dashed, success!!

So lesson learned, get to pub before 9 o'clock.
Get served!🍺

Brenda X

TWW 21st April 2026

 

Belstone Bluebells

We were met at Belstone Green by the usual cold east wind. A short spell on the road to find the footpath past Old Rectory Farm out on to the Moor. A tantalising glimpse of bluebells as we passed. Through the fields then down, down to the bridge over the East Okement river, into the woods and there they were were, just out, that wonderful deep blue almost purple.Taking a left as the path to Okehampton divided and up, up. I love this wood in spring. I saw a Tree Ceeper on my last visit.

On to Lower Halstock. No fields of Miniature Ponies today, I wonder where they are?

Up the track and out on to the Moor again, the wind still strong and cold. We found a sheltered spot by the river for coffee. (Must remember to come in the summer for a dip)

Then over Cullevers Steps and on up to Winter Tor for a photo op.

The plan was to go back along the Tors but the wind was not pleasant so we followed the track to explore the ‘Bubbler’ - Some naughty people has removed one of the concrete ‘windows’ so we could see the strange wooden posts below. Built in the 1950’s in an effort to remove the excess radon in the water. Did it work I wonder??

I guess not, it was closed in 1990 and sold to a private buyer in 2021. Raz found the far door open so was able to explore, there was evidence of clearing up but no hint of what for.

We found a nice spot for lunch by the little water works house on the river Taw.

Sharp eyed Anne saw a Cuckoo in a bush on the opposite bank. A female I guess trying to lay her egg in a nearby nest as it was being mobbed by a very angry much smaller bird. It seemed to work as she moved off.

On down the river bank to find another interesting ‘thing’, a deep concrete pit for dipping sheep we thought

There’s always something new to discover.

Stella

WW 15th April 2026

 

After a very wet, wet day it all cleared up. A very nice brisk breeze and even enough blue sky to just make a pair of sailor's trousers.

Out from Lowery Cross and up through the woods on a super cleared track. Just the huge tree to negotiate. Over the steep stile and out. Straight up Peek Hill with fabulous views and the evening light creating all sorts of different patches on the moor. Down by Lether and round to drop down to the leat corner, where a superb set of dressed granite has been left, for a cuppa. More gently down to the Meavy where, like everywhere else it seems, lots and lots of trees have been planted. Over the metal planks with tales of times past when a scaffold bridge had been built here. Along the track to Lethertor Bridge and up back to the leat. Soon at Cross Gate, where the road shone in the last of the evening light to guide us back to the car. Nippily to the Burrator Inn by 9:26, just in time for a pint. As we left the barman turned off the lights and locked up. A super evening for a walk and no need for torches - the evenings really are drawing out.

TWW 14th April 2026

 

VENFORD E. CAR PARK.

It was typical Dartmoor weather, thick mist and pouring rain and good breeze. Off we set, six hardy souls.

Up the hill on the road for a bit to find the leat which didn’t seem to exist.  My phone was playing up, it didn’t like being in a damp case but with a little help from others and map and compass we eventually came across the leat which was just a trickle in the long grass. Upwards to a loop in another leat and using various paths to the standing stone on Sandy Way. Heading west for a bit we then cut left to find Hapstead Ford, a sheltered spot for coffee. A decision was made to miss out Snowdon and head for Ryders Hill, so following the infant Mardle two standing stones and a trig point soon appeared in the mist. A bearing down the track to the Sandy Way again and on to the girts below Holne Ridge where we dropped into one for lunch. More deep workings and the impressive disused mine lead us to a stream to follow to the western boundary of Venford. Along the fence and over the dam to the cars. On the way we met the only other person of the day a SW water employee from Burrator who had spent the day walking round the reservoir with his pole saw trimming back branches - nice job!

                                  Mike

WW 8th April 2026

 

Stella had  volunteered to do a walk from Calstock. Unfortunately she had a migraine the night before and didn’t feel up to it.

It had been  a beautiful day, the warmest this year. Loads of people out by the river enjoying beers in the sun. So off we set in T-shirts along the bank next to the wetlands, now maturing nicely, with loads of Canada geese and shell ducks in evidence. Along to Okeltor mine and up the track to the road, where a lady in a large white van was looking to deliver to Okeltor stamp house. Fortunately a quick phone call and the recipient came up to meet her.

Along the lane to the level crossing where red lights were flashing quickly followed by a train going sedately by on its way to Calstock. Up the road past all the nurseries, now mostly defunct, and on to the church for a cuppa on a seat amongst the graves - so many of them in a huge graveyard, in the times gone  by they were probably carried up from the village to be buried. Up to the main road and then through the narrow track above Glenver house, a left turn through the woods to Higher Kelly and so to the pub. Stella’s aim was for 9.00 - DEAD ON.

The pub was quite busy young people playing cards and darts, some just in for a drink, just like pubs in the old days.

          Mike

TWW 7th April 2026

 

Hardly daring for a dry walk in the sun we met at Bennett’s Cross in a cold howling gale after being promised record high temperatures. Hoods up & poles anchoring us to the ground we got to the Two Moors Way & continued to the road where we had to make the decision whether to gain more height & head to Hookner Tor & Grimspound but a group decision was to head for lower ground so we walked through Headland Warren Farm & were able to strip off the windproof layers & delight in warm sunshine. Heading south to Challacombe we stopped at the Billy Goat Gruff bridge & had a chat with the friendly troll under the bridge. Amazingly, someone had given him a spring clean. We had our coffee break by the pool in the company of a herd of ponies. Wonderful to see the spring foliage bursting out & smell the coconut from the gorse. Following the valley & the stream we passed the Golden Dagger mine , heading towards Vitifer mine. A sudden cry from Brenda…Hurry, Come quick, run, got us scurrying back down the track to her. No one hurt! Just a beautiful male adder. What a wonderful sight. We carried on with our walk & came across hundreds of tadpoles, a rather large leech & a newt. Birds tweeting all around us. Summer can’t be far away!

Lunch was at the Warren House Inn which served us with scrumptious food including Phil’s favourite of a foot long sausage which looked a bit like a skinned adder! A good walk, good company, good weather & good food.

Amber & Colin

WW 1st April 2026

 

Lovely and light to head up Joey's Lane, such a relief after a long dark winter. Quite cool but all very nice to ascend Sheepstor - always a good spot. Down the back with the track clear and along. No sign of the Pink Moon but I am sure it was helping light the way. Down to the corner and round - what is that? A huge dung beetle dragging some food into its burrow. More down for a nice cuppa at Deancombe as the owl hooted. By now the light was easing so time for headtorches as the mist and mizzle came in. Then two sharp eyes reflecting in our beams, then two more. Seemed too sparkly and sprightly for sheep - could is be a fox. No, two roe deer slowly heading into the trees - nice. To the road and then up past Narrator Farm onto the contouring track round Sheepstor. Soon(ish) back to the lane gate and to the cars. After 9.30 so a slight hope of a pint. The Burrator Inn was open and welcoming as those in red joined us. So, we did get a drink! And even stayed until we were virtually thrown out.

Nice to be back in these light evenings - so many to come.

TWW 31st March 2026

 

Leaving home in heavy mist I was expecting a challenging and limited visibility route finding walk ahead of today!  However, to my joy, arriving at the RV, The Warren House Inn, the sky had cleared, it was pretty warm too, so really good to go for a rare dry walk.

From the main road we cut up to what I assumed to be an old mining gert before turning right to follow the path running parallel to Hurston Ridge and onto and across part of Chagford Common. This eventually took us to the edge of Fernworthy Forrest and the road surrounding most of Fernworthy Reservoir.

On the adjacent green overlooking the water, there were some convenient picnic benches that fitted the bill for our morning cuppa and a birdsong serenade, plus, a piece of birthday cake and a homemade scone kindly supplied by two of our group – very tasty indeed!

Calories loaded, drinks drunk, we picked up the path surrounding the reservoir, noting that there was no water over flow down the dam face which was a visual shame. However, we carried our disappointment with us and followed the path until the road again, before turning right and ever upward into the forest, passing the ‘rearranged’ (by past Victorians) stone row along the way.

Soon we were back out onto open moorland again, and a view that would do justice to an African Savanna, only the lions were missing thankfully!

Now keeping to a well-trodden path we could see on the horizon the Cairn on Water Hill, our marker that was to lead us back down to the Warren House Inn and some well deserved liquid and solid nourishment.

Charlie

WW 25th March 2026

 It was forecast to be very windy and cold so a low level walk seemed sensible, as it happened the worst of the weather had blown through. I used to run this route the other way round with a few extra hilly bits thrown in back in the days when I lived in Horrabridge. Lots of water erosion on the riverbanks and numerous trees down in the woods since then.

On along the Walkham in fading light to Grenofen Bridge then following the river upstream on the other bank, past the lovely funnel falls, as far as double waters. A short stop for a cuppa whilst watching a few bats flying up and down the river, I would have thought it was still too cold for them. On up the road past Bucktor to the top of the hill with a bright quarter moon and several stars now showing. Next following the track with the huge tractor ruts towards Denham Bridge but turning right to find the path down to old railway bridge over the cycle track. And so on to the cars.

High hopes of a pint in The London Inn but just after 9.30 and all was in darkness. Maybe things will improve in the summer!

      Mike

TWW 24th March 2026

 

That was a walk in the clouds.......and the drizzle and the WIND, oh the wind! No wonder no wonder the rest of the world was sitting at home in the warm.
But us oldies don't do that, do we? We have to show the world we're better than that!!
So, down the steep up/down hill to find the sad looking Leapra  Cross, on through the fields to the timeless West Coombe farm, now showing signs of tidying up the decades of rubble and old metal.
The ash house has been cleaned up and now used as an animal shelter. More fields to the organic farm where there are HALF chickens roaming! Pardon!!   And a very friendly smallish cow called Tessa who loved the top of her head tickled. More fields and mud, ancient gnarled trees, a very windy coffee break and through the calmer path to beautiful Heather Combe.
Then the inevitable climb upwards, no time to look for three fishes but out on to the brake into gale force winds and ever increasing low cloud.
Slight difference of opinion as to whether to slide right or carry on but eventually we reached the corner of the "lacy" wall, still standing, and then a straightforward walk back the cars.

And all the time getting wetter and wetter.

Warren House was not too busy, always efficient, food mostly very good before setting off home to warm up.

What fun!  We must do it all again sometime.

Brenda

WW 18th March 2026

Warmest day of the year, so pop up to Princetown for a nice balmy starlit walk. BUT, it was absolutely perishing!

Never mind, got to be done. No need for torches to head out along the wide track to Hart. It is a really popular way with plenty of mud. The light gently eased and all the stars popped out - very nice. Down to the hairy stone as the ISS soared overhead - a perfect sighting. And to think that for nearly six hours two astronauts had been space walking to fix the solar panels. A reminder of just how clever folk can be if they so choose. Up to Cramber with the lights of Plymouth glowing and the Eddystone on the blink again. Straight into the strong easterly now so it was well below freezing. The trig point hove into view (thank goodness) and a snipe shot up. Along, along to South Hessary which seemed a long way into the sharp wind. And down the track to the Plume. All lit up, doors open and a first - Bill was sat there nursing his pint. BUT, it was actually shut - closes at 9pm apparently and not due to extend its hours until the 1st May.

Hey Ho, but a most pleasant, starlit walk.

TWW 17th March 2026

 

A bit disappointing that several couldn’t make it. So a select group of 7 congregated in Pentewan Car Park. The day promised well with mild air and the occasional glimpse of sun, alas not to last but it didn’t rain. Across the busy road to find the footpath by Barton Farm which had been obliterated by huge tractor wheel tracks. Up, up briefly into New Road Plantation and out onto a a very gloopy track to cross the road into a very well appointed caravan park with lovely views out to sea.

As we’d missed coffee at the lovely Little Bay Cafe - not open till May, we had a very nice interlude in the Heligan cafe. Heading down through Heligan woods we glimpsed an enormous and magnificent Fox ready to pounce. Brilliant!

Arriving at Mevagissey we were greeted by a chilly wind however it was very pleasant sitting on the Quay watching the boats eating our fish and chips. While one seagull with a gammy leg was playing the sympathy card another attacked from behind to nick a bit of Raz’s fish.

Time to head back along the coast path. Spring was very defiantly sprung with primroses, celandines, violets in full bloom and the three cornered Cornish leek just coming out. The blackthorn was in full flower while the leaves of the hawthorn were that lovely fresh Green.

All in all a good day out.

Stella

WW 11th March 2026

Wow we could actually see the shape of the surrounding land as we set off. Evenings are drawing out.

Across to the Yellowmead track by the amazing survival tree, and then up to Hollow Tor. The mast at North Hessary always seems near from there but always takes ages to get to.
After a clamber up the Tor to admire the clarity of the evening in the chilly breeze it was on a compass bearing to get us to Foggin Tor Quarry. Staring down from the edge in the dark was like looking into the Grand Canyon. Down to the track and then south for a few yards to pick up the old Princetown railway track to take us round to just below King Tor. Down to the stream and back up to the cars.
The chosen pub was The Witty (given up on Princetown ) and it was OPEN - first evening pint for at least a month!
      Mike

TWW 10th March 2026

Cold East cross was living up to its name COLD!

Off we set across the road and up past up past The Nut Crackers (now defunct as the Logan stone was toppled by vandals back in the day).

Up to Rippon Tor with its panoramic views. Those in the know pointed out the recumbent cross just below the tor, it looks as if it was an attempt to carve a cross which had failed! On down to Hemsworthy gate and up to Top Tor where shelter was found for a cuppa. On then to Pil Tor and Tunhill Rocks to find the stony track to Blackslade Ford. Following a muddy track along the wall past Williams Well (always a disappointment, difficult to see and only recognisable by the corrugated iron surrounding it). Down through the wood, over the lovely stone bridge and then up across Buckland Common on a deteriorating track which finished as a rather prickly experience. Following the wall to Buckland Beacon - another fine viewpoint. A quick look at the Ten Commandment stones, the lettering now easily readable due to the fairly recent renovation. Back along the wall to follow the boundary stones to the cars.
At the Rugglestone our table awaited us, despite the lack of a £50 deposit. The food was good and no fuss with the service. Always nice to visit.
      Mike

WW 4th March 2026

 

Well, where to go? With a full Worm Moon due, and needing a totally guaranteed open pub, Peter Tavy seemed a good choice.

So out from the quarry with a surprisingly cool east wind. The odd star out and glimpses of the mast bode well. Up the rubbly track and out onto the open moor. Along, along to Stephen's Grave as the mist started to appear. Up the old track and on. Heading up to the ramparts when a terrifying shout was heard. "Halt, advance and be recognised!" We were all terrified. But we soldiered on (HoHo) and never saw a soul. By now all was mist as is usual on our evenings. Into the hill fort and then, quite suddenly it appeared. A really beautiful orange moonrise - aren't we lucky. Totally mesmerizing as the mist swirled around. Too cold for a cuppa so down, down seeking out the wall. To the gate to Grass Lane and more down to the road. We even met two other evening walkers. Over Broadmoor Brook and the pull up by the wall. Back to the cars and on to the promised pub. Only just past half nine so absolutely guaranteed a pint. BUT, the Peter Tavy Inn was all dark and locked up. Bother, will we ever get a pint on a  Wednesday evening?

But it really had been a super atmospeheric evening to be out on the moor.

TWW 3rd March 2026

 

Jon got his legs out!

The weather forecast a dry day so we set off in light rain. From the Scout Hut, up the Eylesbarrow track, peeled off to Lower Harter Tor where we had coffee with a 360 degree view.
Somebody mentioned the Three Wise Monkeys?
On again to the spectacular antiquities of Drizzlecombe. Ditsworthy Warren & Edward’s path back to the car, collecting dozens of spent cartridges & flares before sending Brenda in to the Scout Hut to repatriate them to the army personnel. Seems that she was lost for words after an encounter with an attractive young man! Back to the cars & sojourned to the Walkhampton inn for lunch.

Amber & Colin

WW 25th February 2026

 

Always an adventure to set out from Whiteworks on a winter's evening. A real pea souper so those pesky piskies were well up to their tricks.

Down by the huge boulder and wanderingly about to the vital gate. Into the mire and a new stream crossing point - pretty good with a nice rock to help. Up the pony track, who knows where into the gloop. Surely Goldsmith' s must be there somewhere - but no, must have gone for winter maintenance. Up and over the wall and into the gert to seek shelter for a cuppa. For a brief moment it appeared as if the mist was lifting - but not to be. Round and tussockly about to Whealham Bottom Cross then steadily up to Hand Hill - always a nice find. Down back to the Nun's Cross track, over the leat and even more wanderingly back. Into Princetown where all was shut up as usual.

A proper Dartmoor evening.

TWW 24th February 2026

 

For a change it was over the Tamar and into Cornwall for our walk starting in Rilla Mill to explore the River Lynher, the Colquite Woodland, Stara Wood, Sutton and Plushabridge.

We were fortunate to have a day without rain, something unusual this year. Our walk started through the Colquite Wood looking down on a very full Lynher down the valley passing old quarries climbing to Uphill having passed Westcott House. The roadside adorned with snowdrops and the occasional daffodil. It was then down through the wood to the bridge crossing the river allowing us to explore Broad Wood and climb to the shelter where the volunteers gather who maintain the community owned woodlands, where morning coffee was taken.

It was then down again to the bridge to cross the river and continue through Stara wood until we reached a County Bridge which we crossed and then we mounted our first stile to allow us to follow the river along it on the righthand side which eventually took us back into Rilla Mill.

The walk continued  climbing short but steep steps and the increasing number of stiles to take us out of the valley again, as we crossed three fields to enable us to

walk through Sutton, passing Sutton House, and the through the fields to drop down to Plushabridge before crossing more stiles and fields to return once more to Rilla Mill and The Manor House for lunch.

Peter M

TWW 17th February 2026

 

Ten intrepid souls met up on a cool but dry day.  First stop was Cadover Cross for a photocall and then we were off on the search for lettered stones and, of course, longhouses (this is my walk after all).

Around and along the ridge, of Wigford Down, searching vaguely for the first ‘L’ stone which didn’t seem to be where it was supposed to be so we settled for a rather fine cairn and cist instead.  Onward then to cross over the Neolithic enclosure banks (yes I know, everyone thinks it’s an Iron age Hill Fort, but it now seems it’s not!) and out to the Dewerstone Hill Tor.  The weather was even fine enough for a clear view of the sea and the Plymouth Breakwater.

Some very interesting carvings on the tor – examples of early graffiti maybe, though one says “Carrington – Obit Septembris MDCCCXXX”.  – Dartmoor Poet Noel Thomas Carringotn who wrote ‘The Banks of the Tamar’ and ‘Dartmoor’.

Back along the ridge to finally find a ‘L’ stone.  L for Lopes recording the boundary between Lopes (Maristowe) and Scoble land.  Following these through some lovely gorsey brush we then emerged at ………   wait for it…… a longhouse.  Coffee had been ordered but there was no one home so we had to resort to sitting on the banks and enjoying what we had brought with us.

Feeling refreshed we attempted to find some more ‘L’ stones whilst wading through some gloriously muddy boggy bits.  Pausing only to give Urgles Cross, in the distance, a quick wave.  Having reached the road we had another vain search for a bench mark before heading down the road to find the first of the next lot of stones ‘BA’.  We followed these up the hill and visited a second Longhouse (someone got really excited!).

The “Peak” of Wigford Down was reached and another fine cairn visited.  No more Ba Ba stones (not a black sheep to be seen) – BA for Buckland Abbey – not the ancient variety of Abbey but marking the boundary of the Drake family’s ownership of Buckland Abbey.

It was then a straightforward meander down, past the old clay pits, now fishing ponds, and back to the cars.  And onwards to the Walkhampton Inn for another fine lunch.  The weather had been good to us with no rain, but no sun until we were sat in the pub, but we were grateful that we only had wet feet and the rest stayed dry.

Jane

WW 11th February 2026

 

Well that was a" stilish" walk, and by that I mean too many of them, wet, slippery, rotten and wobbly!

Are they really all necessary?
Anyway through the slippery, Spidey woods, the Cowsic river raging just below until out on the track to Beardown farm, past the empty and very dark campsite and up to the rather smelly woods and past large smelly cows.
All's well and out to the moors, a track was chosen and followed.
The dark seemed to get darker and there was a bit of confusion as to which direction we needed. As you know I only like "Down"!
A bit of toing and froing we found the desired gate, in the middle of a bog and from there the foot bridge over the leat.
Following the path, very reasonable condition considering past weather conditions.
This is another path that seems interminable until reaching woodland above Crockern cottage.
Finally out on the track past the farm, deciding to "trespass" on their very potholed driveway and back to the cars.
Two Bridges Hotel in total darkness, both entrances barriered off, no geese to be seen.
So, one shut, two to go, on to the Plume, also shut. On to the Prince, always open, No also shut!!
There's definitely something wrong with the country if all the pubs are closed.    HELP !!
Brenda

TWW 10th February 2026

 Will we be back in three hours? That’s the limit on the car park unless you pay double. Ever confident I said yes.

Quite a pleasant morning, not too windy and some blue sky in evidence. Off over the dam where we could see a couple of men in an inflatable doing work on the reservoir outlet. Round the path on the south side of the reservoir and on past Vellake Corner where the Okement was thundering spectacularly down the ravine. Past the enclosure and on towards Black Tor Copse. The selected path up toward the tor was so wet it was easier to walk in the tussock at the side. A stop for coffee in the lee of the tor, then pressing on ( ever conscious of that three hour cut off ) along the rocky track which was completely submerged in places. As we rounded Longstone Hill the rain which up toward then had been quite light, suddenly turned very heavy, fortunately it was mostly behind us. Down the steep path to the dam which at its steepest was slippery enough for Olympic snowboarding.
On to the White Heart which was very welcoming with good food and busy with locals - just what we needed.
Mike

WW 4th February 2026

 

Now that was dark, I mean really really dark, d-a-r-k. And windy, I mean really really windy, w-i-n-d-y. But, somehow, the promised rain never turned up. 

Out from Ringmoor and round by Brisworthy Plantation to the wall. Along, along seeking out the track when the stone circle popped out - that was nice. Following the track faithfully, over the ford and by the wall to seek out the vital gateway. Up to Legis which just about emerged from the blackness. Over the fence by the wobbly, pony eaten, stile and on straight into the easterly. And over to Ditsworthy Warren, the only place for shelter and a warming cuppa. The moon was scheduled to rise but not a peep, not the faintest glow. Along the refurbed track and up to Gutter. No sign of soldiers this evening, must be just too dark and windy for them. Along, along and a lot more along the interminable track back to the cars.

On to the ever reliable Burrator Inn - which was shut. So on to the ever reliable Rock which was welcoming and open. 

And then as we left the pub the heavens opened yet again. A grand evening to be out on the moor.

TWW 3rd February 2026

 

13 people braved the weather today. With heavy showers forecast, a leaden sky & very squelchy under foot we headed around Cox Tor towards Peter Tavy with a very slippery, muddy descent towards the disused Peter Tavy swimming pool where we celebrated Colin’s birthday with wine & muffins. To our consternation we learnt that the footpath via Godsworthy farm was a quagmire of cow poop so a quick re routing steered us clear of that navigational nightmare. Still a lot of water & mud on the ground after 2 months of rain & storms but we managed to cross the streams though not everyone kept their footing on the downhills. The last stretch was up the flank of Cox Tor where the wind caught us full on & a nicely refreshing rain shower to finish off. The day rounded out nicely with a visit to The Old Police Station in Princetown for mammoth portions of fish & chips.

Amber & Colin

WW 28th January 2026 - annual dinner

 

TWW 27th January 2026

 

Divide and Conquer ?!

Not the usual start from Sourton Church, but instead heading south down the A386 a short way before crossing the fields to Cleave and the old A30.  The stile here provided a bit of a challenge to those of lesser stature and mobility!  A short way down the road we turned onto the lane past Quarry Cottage to Sourton Quarry.  This limestone quarry originally produced building stone but in the 19th, century was producing quick lime for agricultural use.  The quarry was abandoned in 1906  when it suddenly flooded, and it is now a nature reserve leased by the Devon Wildlife Trust.  Onwards and upwards till we reached the road and headed for Lake. Crossing the A386 and followed the footpath under Lake Viaduct where we found a sheltered spot to stop for a brew.

Suitably (?) refreshed, we set off to ascend Lake Down.  However, some found the climb a little too challenging and opted to return to the cars via the Granite Way.  Others carried on up to the ridge and then on to Sourton Tors. The wind was really beginning to blow at this point and the short hail shower was really quite uncomfortable, though at least the wind was more or less behind us.  From here, some opted for the direct route back to the cars while others (well one of us) followed the planned route via the ice works to reach the cars not long after the others.

From there it was a short drive to the Fox and Hounds for a well deserved lunch.

Phil

WW 21st January 2026

 

It’s so much harder in the dark!

Just do my familiar route from Merrivale the opposite way round I thought. Easy!

So up to the end of the stone rows. Why is it so rocky and hut circles? We got there but at the other end. Then by a circuitous and very soggy route down to the stream which tonight  was a rushing river. All made it across safely and on to the wall to lead us to the path up to the railway line. Missing out the planned climb up to King’s we went west to find Hucken. The Piskies were at it again so we missed the main bit but found the ladder over the wall into the fields to explore the rest of the dramatic rocks that make up the Tor. Down through the woods we heard the roar of the river Walkham long before we saw it. Along the track which was more stream than path. It was good to see lights on in Longash Farm with warnings of children and animals but nothing about naked men!

We soon saw the blazing lights of the Dartmoor Inn. Not worth seeing if they were still open at 9.15 so on to the Whitty which was open after their New Year break.

Very Nice.

Stella

TWW 20th January 2026

 

Well, that was wet, wet and even wetter. T'was windy, windy, and more windy at the top of Bellever Tor!

We do seem to pick days to walk that nobody, nobody in their right mind would ever do. Do you think "age" is making us a bit stupid ? Or is it because we've seen it all, done it all and just don't care anymore? I think we just love a challenge and to be outside whatever the weather. Of course we like to be "alone" on the moors too, don't we?

We parked up at the incredibly small car park and struggled up the waterlogged track, surrounded by fallen trees, chopped down trees and mud, mud and more mud. Finally out on to the track that leads to southern boundaries of Bellever Forest, a little respite here  from the wind and out to follow the track/wall to the large galvanised tank that always has the most clearest of water. Small delay whilst Huey negotiated the locked gate and off up the track to Laughter Tor. Not the way I wanted to go but silent glum faces and a mutinous atmosphere made me aware I'd better watch it !!

Quick photo call and glancing look at the two memorials and we turned down again by the wall to get back to the relative calm of the forest. Found a lovely damp mossy bank to have a belated drink before setting off up the slippery steps and up the track to the most beloved and popular tor on the moors. Don't think the spiritual gods of Bellever wanted company today. It did it's best to blow us off. Back down the well worn track and back to the relative calmer forest.
Getting back to the cars just as it started with horizontal hail turning to sleet.

Back to the near empty PofW. They did their best to please us, but we were still wet and cold so left the socialising to those that only joined us for lunch!

I've decided against doing any more walks this winter!!!!!😉😜

Brenda