Dartmoor, May 2025.

It was great to be back at Bowerman's Cottage; last time in 2021 Covid regulations were still in force and the weather was none too pleasant! For this trip, Amber put together three great walks for the ten members who attended, including new member Raymond with some shorter walks also on offer on the first two days.

Two Bridges, Wistman's Wood, Higher White Tor, Gunpowder Mines, Bellever Tor, Dunnabridge, Sherberton, Prince Hall Hotel, Two Bridges.

On this circular route we were treated to a helicopter landing with checkpoint staff for the Ten Tors challenge on Higher White Tower and some people doing an outdoor first aid course.  We then faced a challenging stepping stones crossing of the River Dart where four paddled and four took a chance, prior to which there had been a bathing stop in the West Dart river. A lovely sunny day.

Manaton, Houndtor Woods (Dartmoor Way) North Lodge, Haytor, Bonehill Rocks, Natworthy Manor, Jay's Grave, Bowerman's Nose,  Manaton.

We had a cold wind but it was generally sunny and dry. We saw leeches at the old quarry near Haytor and heard a yellowhammer singing.

Manaton, Lustleigh Cleave, Houndtor Wood, Clam Bridge, Water, Horsham, Manaton.

This walk started with showers but finished in sunshine - William's lunch box took a tumble from a bridge and a short trip down stream but was retrieved.

The colours and variety of both wild and garden flowers were amazing. It is not often we have been there in spring.

Amber devised a great menu supplemented by one of Gary's meals for the first evening. A thoroughly enjoyable trip. 

Michael M, joint leader with Amber B.