A WONDERFUL WOODLAND EXPLORATION
It was a bit chilly when we got out of the cars at the tiny hamlet of Zoar. Wind-proofs donned we set off on the usual route past Creason Farm down the lane past Chilly wood and on to Hill Bridge. A beautiful bridge with gaps for flood water as the Tavy can rise up to 7ft, not now though. The river was very low and unusually quiet, even the birds seemed to have gone to bed. Starting along the leat we soon turned down to the more challenging river path. An interesting looking diversion took us into the old woodland past huge rocks (when does a rock become a Tor?) We soon popped out onto the river path again by a waterfall and swimmable pool. A perfect spot for a cuppa and maybe a swim walk another time.
Next we found the lovely Royal Ferns and the orchid field. A few dried flower heads of Devils Bit Scabious, Saw-wort and Knapweed remained but the ground was still surprisingly damp. Another interesting little path into the wood lead us back up to the leat and finally out onto the sunken Green lane that was once the main road between Peter Tavy and Horndon.
Past the houses onto the road we saw a man with a camera, what was he doing? A piece about the risks of Moorland fires for ITV he said. We might be on the tele he said. But no, we ended up on the cutting room floor I guess.
A pint in the Mary Tavy Inn was a refreshing end to a pleasant evening.
There’s always a little adventure to be had.
Stella