On Sunday 5th October nine of us from the Devon Group set out from the Old Station Car Park in South Brent for a walk up on to Dartmoor.

We followed the Avon Valley along a green lane called Hunter’s Path, enjoying pleasant views over the wooded valley and across to the moor where our ultimate destination, Hickley Ridge and Brent Fore Hill, could be glimpsed through the trees.

We passed the old tuberculosis hospital at Didworthy, now converted into housing. Then, after a short stretch along the lanes, the curiously named Diamond Lane, led us up its rocks and boulders onto the moor and Hickley Ridge. Another 45 minutes took us to the top of Brent Fore Hill where we stopped for lunch, sheltering behind rocks from the remnants of Storm Amy and enjoying sweeping views across the South Hams and out to the coast.

We then headed down to Ball Gate, with its grand posts surmounted by large stone balls, surely once the entrance to a wealthy residence. From there a rough track took us off the moor down to a quiet lane leading to the hamlet of Aish and picturesque Lydia Bridge.

Then it was a short walk alongside the River Avon back to the car park – and most importantly to excellent tea and cake at the Station House Café, much deserved after an invigorating 6.5 miles.

PS: Many thanks to Stephen for researching and leading this walk.