After the successful launch of my guide book; Dartmoor Trail and Fell Running, I have been asked to guide a few of the routes and more others not included , for those less confident in finding routes, and I am happy to do so.

There are just three main ancient oak copses on Dartmoor: Black Tor Copse on the West Okement, Wistman’s Wood on the West Dart, and Piles Copse. Of the three, Piles is the largest, most sheltered and has the best-formed trees, yet is probably the least most visited. 

For my part, it is one of the wonders of Dartmoor.

It is privately owned and managed to preserve its rare ecology and due to its location, a trip out involves quite a trek...hence this run. 

The route starts in Ivybridge and heads out north on the two moors way, then via a few tops before dropping off Sharp Tor and down to the copse on the banks of the river Erme. We then follow the river south back into Ivybridge. A route of 10 Dartmoor miles and 2000 feet of ascent is achievable for most trail runners and as such the pace will as ever be gentle. Aiming for 2 and half hours. 

Join me for a slow adventure with lots of places to take photos, learn about the local history of the area and chat about running on Dartmoor. I'm happy to sign any books on the day too and some will be available to purchase after the run also if you don’t already have a copy. 

Park in Leonard's Carpark and we will meet there by the bridge into the shopping complex