By: Blonde One
St Michael de Rupe Church
Sitting on top of a little hill on the western edge of Dartmoor is Brentor Church. St Michael de Rupe (of the rock) church sits at 1100 feet on its little hill which is thought to have been a volcanic cone. It’s a very pleasant stroll up to the church from the large car park (with toilets) at the roadside and worth the visit, not least of which for the surrounding views. The foundations of this church, the fourth smallest in the UK, were founded in the 12th Century. The church is still used today and holds services during the summer months every Sunday evening. It also seems to be a popular location for getting married (I can see why!). Dartmoor churches, as with churches anywhere, are fascinating and usually well worth a visit. This one did not disappoint.
The Elephant’s Nest Inn
On this trip out, I combined it with a stay at the fabulous Elephant’s Nest Inn in the village of Horndon, a stones throw from Brentor Church. The proprietors, Hugh and Denise, gave me a very warm welcome and provided me with the softest bed that I’ve ever slept in! It was a fabulous stay, with delicious home cooked food and a well stocked bar (they even had gin from the Isles of Scilly!). At the moment this pub is only open to residents but I definitely would recommend a stay there.
