Dartmoor

I have harped on about Wistmans Woods previously on this site, as well as my other site. This is a picture (or two, if blogger allows me to update more than one) of what this magical place looks like in Winter. The copse of trees, seen from afar, doesn't look like anything much. Yet, the closer you get, the larger they become, the more ominous and hoary. People react differently to the actual place - some hate it on sight and refuse to enter the woods, clambering over huge rocks and convoluted roots. Some love it. Some come here to pray and do small rituals. The day we went we found quite a few offerings of late winter flowers, colourful ribbons and a small candle which had been used.

There are many legends about Dartmoor and about Wistmans Woods. Friend John has this article which he had written on these woods and the Wish Hounds on his website.

Dartmoor has been inhabited for the past four thousand years, so it can lay claim to the most interesting folklore, legends and myths. One of my favourite websites - www.legendarydartmoor.co.uk - has made light work of these and put them down for the public to view. Do go visit and read up more. And if you ever have the chance to go and visit this beautiful and magical piece of UK Countryside, do so, without hesitation.