The bike is loaded, weather is looking very promising, once more into the breech.

Departing from Constantine Bay with a short 25 minutes cycle to join the Camel Trail at Padstow.

Camel Trail, Padstow

Riding the trail to Wadebridge, Bodmin then a 15 minute ride onto Bodmin Parkway railway station.

Shooting Range Platform, Camel Trail

Alot of stations around Cornwall, Devon still have a very old time feel about them and Bodmin Parkway is no exception. The station is also the junction for the Bodmin & Wenford steam line service.

An old Class 47 diesel locomotive, Bodmin Parkway

My train does have a place for the bike and we settle in for the hour and 15 minute journey to Bere Alston via the Royal naval city of Plymouth.

I had already planned via my Ordnance Survey and Google maps my first nights wild camping on Dartmoor. So with a destination in mind we make a bee line to a little wood coppice near to the base of Sheepstor.

Denham Bridge

As I leave Bere Alston its a nice long downhill to Denham Bridge (River Tavy) but as with any down there is an up! Legs are fresh, so the climb upto Buckland Abbey does not strain me to much even with the extra weight.

Buckland Abbey is a National Trust establishment so a hefty price entrance would ensure. I am only popping in for water and back out onto the road as keen to get to the camp site well before sunset.

Royal Oak Inn, Meavy

Crossing the busy A386 to the village of Hoo Meavy, I pop out onto the moors. Arriving at my dedicated wood coppice which also house's a scout hut. I pitch up near by but do have access to their stand pipe after permission from the incumbent troop!

First night

The first evening is very pleasant with a light breeze. Hikers slower disperse off the moors to a few waiting cars below. The sky is generally clear with the sun dispersing a pleasant glow after a wonderful day back on my touring bike.

33 miles