We’re finally at our cottage for the next week, a lovely place, the sun is shining and we can just hear the cricket match in the next village!

We decided to visit Cotehele (National Trust) House and grounds on route to Cornwall. We went on the scenic route through the Tamar Valley – rather narrow and hilly roads, but some nice scenery.

We arrived before the house was open, so took a recommended walk down the and along the Tamar River.

We stopped at Cotehele Quay for tea/coffee. Very different now!

Then followed the path to Cotehele Water mill.

Then finally back to the main house and gardens.

A lovely visit.

We had dinner in a local pub (“Fish and Chip Friday”) and then a brief stroll on the moors for Rocco – including meeting a few Dartmoor Ponies.

Rocco was quiet overnight (thankfully) and we went for another walk on the moors before an excellent breakfast at the hotel.

Rocco needed his afternoon walk, so we walked from the hotel onto the adjacent moors.

Nice easy grassed paths…

And Rocco enjoyed chasing a stick…

A slowish journey down here today, but I’m sure it would be worse tomorrow…

I’d vaguely remembered a picnic place on the A303, and we found it again around lunchtime. Toilets, a café, picnic benches and a bit of shade – Ideal for a quick stop.

An hour and a half later, we’ve arrived at our dog friendly hotel just outside Plymouth on the edge of Dartmoor.

Bowls and blankets provided!

I took Rocco for a short stroll in the hotel grounds, all rather peaceful, with the strains of classical music from a wedding on the lawn.

Off to a local pub tonight, and Cornwall tomorrow.