After a hectic few weeks, it was wonderful to exercise in the green outdoors. I’m passionate about Christmas and relish festivities with family and friends. But once the New Year has been celebrated, I’m eager to return to my normal routine. So, being back in the countryside was revitalising and exhilarating.
Kit Hill, near Callington, is pretty special. An archaeological and geological site, the location’s name derives from ‘kite’, an Old English word for the bird of prey.
At the top of the immense granite rise where tin and wolfram were mined in the past, the panorama covers hundreds of miles, taking in the Tamar Valley, Bodmin Moor, Plymouth and Dartmoor. An azure sky, feathered with wispy white clouds, enhanced the spectacular surroundings.
Relaxing on a stone bench at the base of a disused shaft’s stack, I savoured the crisp, pure air. These days, because of the structure’s height, it houses metal installations, but they don’t detract from it being an impressive Cornish landmark symbolising the terrain’s heritage.
The heathland is lush with flashes of citrus yellow. Sparks of gorse, a hardy evergreen shrub, and cheery against winter’s muted hues. Although when continuing our walk, I was cautious of its spiky foliage.
Mr Word Loft guided me down a pathway to the ruins of South Kit Hill Mine, which dates back to 1856 when the engine house was built. Before then, since the 15th century, tin mining had been carried out above ground from long, narrow pits.
Ponies grazed near a hedgerow by the mine’s lofty stone chimney and were friendly. Although that was probably due to them thinking I had edibles in my bag, which I did not, but that didn’t stop a brown fluffy youngster from tugging at it. Perfect for me to caress their thick, soft coats. They soon lost interest and decided to dine on grass and bracken instead, when a dear little robin flew down. He perched on the branch of a twiggy, wind-sculpted tree, and with his trilling, his chirpy serenade was a wonderful beginning to 2026.
Wishing everyone good health, peace and happiness.
Best wishes,
Sue. X