Devon members enjoyed perfect June weather for a walk in the heart of Dartmoor. We set off across Hayne Down. Soon we could make out the distinctive outline of Bowerman's Nose, a granite tower 40 feet tall. According to local legend it is named after a local hunter who disturbed a coven of witches. Angered by his intrusion they took their revenge by encasing him in stone.

A steep descent on a twisting rocky path took us off the moor towards the village of Manaton nestling in the valley below. This was our destination for a picnic lunch on the picturesque village green with its lovely thatched cottages and church. Signs on the bus shelter alerted us to a cake stall in the vicinity and directed us to look for a pink umbrella! This treasure trove of home baking proved impossible to resist and purchases were duly made. I believe at least one cake survived the journey home in someone's rucksack.

Rested and refueled we proceeded along a quiet country lane climbing ever upwards towards the moor. Just when we thought it couldn't get any steeper, it did. Then it was over a cattle grid onto a  path through tall bracken leading us to the curious remains of a medieval village. Above us the craggy outline of Hound Tor loomed. A short climb to the summit was rewarded with the best views of the day. One of us even had the energy for a spot of rock climbing.

Afterwards we went to an excellent local farm shop cafe for tea and, yes you guessed, more cake.

Mike