Sixteen walkers gathered in the beautiful village of Lydford for a 'figure of eight' walk. We were greeted in the car park by the sight of a vintage motorcycle club also meeting up before going for a ride. Initially cloudy the day brightened up and later we enjoyed a warm and sunny afternoon.

The first part of the walk took us through the village and then up on to the moor where spectacular views opened up of the surrounding tors. Brat Tor stood out due to the 13ft high cross on its summit. Instigated by the artist F J Widgery it commemorates Queen Victoria's golden jubilee in 1887.

We enjoyed tramping across level grassy moor before returning to Lydford for our lunch stop in the peaceful grounds of Lydford Castle. Some enjoyed a picnic in the grounds of this impressive  freestanding tower, built in the 12th century a as prison and courtroom, whilst others found a shady beer garden behind the local pub.

Just time to visit the lovely little church of St Petrock next door before setting off on the second half of the walk along quiet lanes and tracks. We crossed Fernworthy Down to join up with the Granite Way trail which follows the line of an old railway. Here we encountered a swarm of not so lovely flying ants!

We moved swiftly on and returned to Lydford before heading off for well earned refreshments in a local National Trust café.

Many thanks to Mike for organising and leading the walk.