We are the Exeter and District Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Leaders Jane and Maggie.
To cool off in August, take a steady climb from the car park up towards the Moor, following Watery Lane, an ancient trackway for the carriage of peat from high Dartmoor to South Zeal, also known locally as Livaton Pits Lane. Continue via South Tawton Common walking south down the field wall to Shilley Pool where Blackaton Brook enters a narrow valley and cascades over smooth rocks as it reaches the 1 metre deep pool and flat rocks mean that crossing the stream can be easily done. Lunch here and enjoy the water by dip, paddle, splash or simply enjoy this natural phenomenon. Return crossing the Ford, following the sound and view of the Brook, pass over Paynes bridge, turn towards Ramsley Common for short climb with viewpoint and copper mining chimney. Return to South Zeal and brief explore of St Mary’s Chapel, the Market Cross, the Oxenham Arms (16th C) the King’s Arms (14th C) and The Stores (15th C). The village of South Zeal originated in the mid 13th Century as a ‘new town’, established by Robert de Tony as ‘Sele Tony’, the south Hall of the neighbouring Manor of South Tawton.
Bring/wear swimming costume, towel, paddling sandals!
If you would like to join this walk, please notify the leaders, preferably by email, so that they can inform you of any late changes to arrangements
South Zeal Car Park at southern end of village (by donation or free) Map: EXP113
