Buckland Beacon: Devon GOC Sunday 3rd July 2022

Thirteen members and one dog assembled in a variety of  car parks high up on the moor for a classic Dartmoor 'tor-bagging' route taking in some outstanding viewpoints. Fortunately it was a very clear day and we could see for miles.

We quickly got the first two tors out of the way then it was downhill to Blackslade Ford. A short steep ascent to the top of a ridge opened up fine views of Widecombe in the Moor and the heart of Dartmoor. Deserted lanes led to a picturesque thatched farmhouse by a stream. Another climb along an enclosed rocky green lane emerged onto the moor and we picked our way uphill across rough ground to the summit of Buckland Beacon. Time for lunch and a well earned sit down. One by one members discovered for themselves the two granite boulders carved with the Ten Commandments in 1928.

After lunch we set off along wide grassy path, mercifully level this time. At the road we split into two groups, some to follow the gentle gradient of the road whilst the adventurous  majority tackled the steady climb up Rippon Tor, the highest peak (1,552 feet) of the day.  We paused to admire the view before rolling down the hill back to the cars.

An excellent farm shop cafe nearby provided refreshments and an opportunity to share reflections on a smashing day out.

Mike

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