Autumn In Devon
Autumn on Dartmoor is my favourite time of year. The early morning mist pools in the valleys, creating a blanket with the treetops slowly peeking through. The wooded hills become awash with coppers and oranges and browns - a colourful spectacle. Here's a little peek into our world here in Devon at this time of year - a somewhere to eat, somewhere to stroll and something to read (under a lambswool blanket in front of a fire, ideally).
SOMEWHERE TO EAT
We rarely go out to eat, having three small kids really takes the shine off any relaxed restaurant vibes - but recently we spent a delicious (an incredibly relaxed) evening at the Lost Kitchen, just outside of Tiverton. It's housed in beautiful barns, strings of lights all along the terraces outside and all the food is wood-fired. We ordered all the sharing plates - the Turkish Pide with spiced lamb was particularly excellent. So much so that we've been recreating it at home in the pizza oven, always the sign of a good meal out.
SOMETHING TO READ
As it is fast approaching the season for curling up on the sofa with a (Feldspar) mug of tea in front of the fire, here is a very good book that we've both read and loved. 'Landlines' by Raynor Winn is the third book she's written about her and husband Moth's adventures - it is a beautiful meditation on connecting with nature and how vital it is for our health and wellbeing. Makes me want to don some walking boots and head out into the wilderness, although with three kids in tow it's not quite the same experience...
On another note, a top tip for walking with kids is to take chocolate coins and throw them ahead on the path so the kids forget about being tired and race to coins instead.
SOMEWHERE TO STROLL
Just incase you find yourself travelling down the A30 this Autumn, a very easy and quick pit stop are the grounds of Castle Drogo, a mere stone's throw from our workshop. Find Hunter's Path that leads you away from the castle towards the Deer Park - it is breathtaking. A beautiful walk along the top of a wooded valley that changes by the day at this time of year, across to a lookout point where you can see for miles. The otherside of the valley is full of deer, including a very rare white stag, so it's worth taking some binoculars too if you are so inclined (I am). Here are some photos of the valley in all its Autumnal glory - one of our favourite spots.
