April 3, 2011

After light rain during the night I awake to a misty moors, as it should be. As with the previous tour to Bodmin Moor my first morning seems to take forever to get my kit/stuff together, 2 ½ hours from wake up to on the bike! Just need to be more organised, more than I am already, if that is possible!

Sheepstor

The village of Sheepstor welcomes me to my first full day on the moors.

Sheeptor's village church

Short climb

A half loop round the reservoir then up one of many climbs to the base of Leather Tor.

Soon I am on the main road to Princetown. I had considered cycling the old railway line up to Princetown but after investigation, the bridleway is only really suited to full off-road bikes. A laden tourer would be quite a slog especially with style's to contend with.

Princetown Information Centre

Princetown is best known as the site of Dartmoor Prison, built in 1806. It is the highest town on the moor, and one of the highest in the United Kingdom. It is very touristy, so I manage a quick visit to the information centre and quickly ride out of dodge!

Two Bridges Hotel

The main artery the B3212 cuts through Dartmoor as I arrive at the Two Bridges and its name sake the Two Bridges Hotel, built even further back in 1794, then known as the Saracen's Head.

West Dart River

I soon head off the main road and follow the West Dart River. Not quite sure where I shall be bedding down for the night. I pass throw Hexworthy, then a long climb up to Combestone Tor. 

Venford Reservoir

Before long a brief rest at Venford Reservoir.

Michelcombe

Church House Inn

Arrival at Holne, greeted by the presence of a period pub. The Church House Inn, amazingly built in 1329! I am pointed from there to the Stone Barn, which has a small camp ground, perfect.

The Stone Barn

The Stone Barn along with the camp site also has a camping barn, basic but all that is needed.

Church House Inn, food, ale, perfect.

 

23 miles