Plotting a day out 

We were unusually blessed this January with beautiful weather, dominated by High Pressure systems, this meant bright clear skies albeit quite chilly. The days were also getting longer so we ventured out in our 30 year old Landrover for a cruise on Dartmoor. 

 

As is normal, we begin by getting to and climbing Hay Tor, that iconic twin peak easily visible from Higher Gitcombe to take in the panoramic views. Stunning was the only word for it with a sunset reaching across Cornwall. 

 

A trip was plotted over the moor which we think our guests would enjoy. This encompassed Hound Tor, Bonehill Rocks, Widecombe in the Moor, Fernworthy Reservoir and Great Mis Tor. In the case of Great Mis Tor, we found an open gate leading to the high ground via a track which we climbed for about two miles, easily accomplished in a Landrover. On reaching the summit, we realised the significance of the red flags flying on some of the adjacent Tors. Gunfire could be heard and even explosive devices going off. We had strayed into the live firing rages of the Ministry of Defence unwittingly! A hasty retreat was beat and a useful lesson learnt about red flags!