Walkers cross Dartmoor on ancient path

The Abbot’s Way Walk 2011

On 2nd October, Lt Col Sharpe, Exeter School’s Ten Tors Manager, and his team of walkers and accompanying staff, undertook the Abbots’ Way Walk from Buckfast Abbey to Tavistock. He writes:

“The event is organised by the Tavistock & District Outdoor Education Forum and is supported by the Dartmoor Rescue Group and other volunteer organisations who provide communications and emergency cover. This year, there were 400 entrants, with Exeter School providing the largest contingent. The route is 23 miles long and crosses the entire width of Dartmoor from east to west with the approximate midpoint being Princetown. The highest point on the route is North Hessary Tor, after which it is downhill most of the way into Tavistock. In stark contrast to last year, the weather was clear and sunny with only a light wind, but the conditions were challenging due to the heat with dehydration being a real risk and additional water supplies were on hand at the half way point.

"The Abbots’ Way Walk is a significant challenge and all who completed it should be justifiably proud of their achievement: well done to all, pupils and staff alike. Many thanks also to the support crew, without whose assistance the walk would not have been possible.

"Next year’s walk will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Abbots’ Way Walk and will take place on 7 October 2012”.