Email - dartmoor.bounders@btinternet.com

BEATING THE BOUNDS

OF ANCIENT DARTMOOR

By Ian Kirkpatrick

In the year 1240, King Henry III summoned twelve Devonshire knights to mount their steeds & ride around Dartmoor’s forest bounds as then stated, they were – William le Brewer, Richard Gifford of Awliscombe, Guy of Bryteville, William of Widworthy, Hugh of Boley, Odonis of Treverbyn, Henry son of Henry, William Trenchard, Philip Parrer, Nicholas of Heamton, William of Moreleigh & Durant son of Botour.

The historical journey was undertaken on the 24^th.July 1240, the reason being to check the possible encroachment of the commoners, upon the royal hunting ground.

The time taken to complete is not known but eventually the bounds were set & remain virtually unchanged to this day.

A walk has been set up to retrace the steps of the knights. It can be tackled as an individual or as a group depending on requirements, there is no time limit!

Walkers may start & finish the walk at points most convenient to themselves.

A submission of a short amusing report on completion will entitle participants to a certificate & the opportunity to purchase a badge.

For letterbox enthusiasts, there is the opportunity to have a copy of a stamp.

Route Sheet