2.1 Miles, 55 minutes, Elevation gain 64m
Directions
Head west out of Murchington on the Gidleigh road. Pass the road to Higher Murchington but as you get to the top of the short hill take the track on your right (opposite the footpath down to the river). Follow the track past Hackfield Cottage to Fairview and head straight (slightly left) onto the road.
The view of Meldon from near Fairview
Follow this narrow lane for about a mile, joining a slightly larger road from the right as you descend. Note the fine view across the Blackaton Brook valley to Providence with its Bible Chapel and former School House. When you reach the bottom of the hill follow the road round to the left rather than crossing the brook and ascending the hill to Providence. The beautiful garden to your right belongs to the picture-postcard Blackaton House and is occassinally open as part of the National Garden scheme. Follow the road for about 200 metres, but before you get to Blackaton Bridge take the footpath into Blackaton Copse (WT) - crossing the stile - and follow the woodland path alongside Blackaton Brook. This is a lovely ancient wood with a couple of seats overlooking the brook and a series of paths, any of which will take you back to the Gidleigh Road. At the road, turn left and walk back to Murhcington - approximately a mile along a beutiful country lane.
Note: this is a lovely walk to do in reverse, especially at dusk when you may see Meldon lit by the evening sun as you appraoch Fairview on the edge of Murchington.
Mild Peril: not much - the roads are quiet, but do listen out for traffic on the narrow lanes.