Walkabout In The UK

Family issues had meant that this was my first wildcamping trip this year.

Frustrating really as my exercise regime during the last few years had really benefitted my walking pace & pack carrying stamina.

Ho hum. Pay it forward, never a false economy in these, my advancing years.

But leaving it this late in the year meant that I wasn't over optimistic of stringing together many nights on the tops.

After the usual dreary drive across from Dorset, and a little exploratory reconnaissance, I loaded up at the car park west of Merrivale (GR 540 750)

A typically dreary start, with intermittent rain throughout the day.

Ringed by barbwire (satisfyingly broken down in places) it presumes to be a jealously guarded spot mimicking some frontline battle line. 

Which for many it still remains - being an early sign of things to come.

I originally mentioned it back in 2007 and 17 years later it remains deeply symbolic of the expanding conflict between private ownership and public access.

And to be honest, really not that great a spot to safeguard from the marauding hordes of drooling ramblers milling around the spot.

Well not really.

But at least the welcoming sign made me smile - best of luck enforcing! 

Welcome to Vixen Tor 

Onwards to tick off Feather Tor (534 741) .....

.. Feather Tor

....and its view onto Heckwood Tor (537 738) the next waypoint .....

Heckwood Tor

....where there was a suitably atmospheric glimpse of Great Mis Tor in the distance, a favourite overnight spot of mine with panoramic views down to the sea beyond Plymouth.

The leat and cross discovered along the way made a pleasant photo opportunity, initially suggesting a future wildcamping spot for a long hot sunny day. But it quickly became clear that this was a focal point for walkers in the area. Quickly crossed off my list - I prefer more solitary resting spots.

4 tors ticked off in less than an hour - more a leg stretch than a walk. But after the early drive it was all I really required for a kit shakedown exercise.

 Pew Tor

I wouldn't really consider any of these tors for a revisit, and certainly not for an overnighter.

From memory Pew Tor seemed quite popular with occasional visitors, with its proximity to the Merrivale car parks.

But not anything that sticks in my memory as I write this now.

Labels: dartmoor, Fitness, National Park, vixen tor, wild camping

// posted by John Hee @ 11/02/2024 04:43:00 pm