A walk from the carpark at Venford Reservoir along the old leat through White Wood - an ancient oak woodland on the slopes of the Dart Valley. At this time of year, there probably won't be many leaves on the trees, but there should be lots of colour in the bracken, lichen, fern and moss, and probably some fungi too. This part starts flat but then ascends steadily until we reach our turning point, where we can either retrace our steps, or climb a bit further above the wood to Bench Tor, with overlooks of the wooded valley slopes and some typical Dartmoor specimen oaks and hawthorns with a granite outcrop as the backdrop.
From there, an open moorland stretch downhill back towards the reservoir, where we can follow the path through the forestry - a pinewood - round the shore and return to the car park. There are sometimes ponies and sheep to see, but can't guarantee that.
We could also do a short walk to the twin falls in the Venford Brook if I can remember how to find them! It is a rather steep scramble though.
I suggest we go to the pub in Holne for lunch afterwards as unless the weather is very kind, we'll probably be ready for a sit down inside! People who'd rather take a picnic could do so by the water perhaps - there are a few picnic tables next to the reservoir.
