"Twist" (Ruined Farmhouse)

A collapsed stone structure in the Devonshire moorland, Twist is what remains of a farmhouse that's seen better days. The walls still stand in places, enough to give you a sense of what the building once was, though the roof's long gone and nature's reclaimed most of the interior. It's not dramatic or imposing - more melancholy than anything - but there's something rather compelling about standing among the stones and imagining the families who lived here centuries back.

This is a proper walker's find rather than a destination in itself. You won't spend hours here; fifteen minutes of poking about and photographing the walls is realistic. It appeals most to history enthusiasts and ramblers exploring the moorland around Tavistock who enjoy the quieter, less obvious sites. Children might find it interesting for five minutes, but won't hold their attention long unless they're already keen on ruins.

There's no admission charge or facilities to speak of - it's simply there, accessible on foot. The best approach is to combine it with wider moorland walks in the area. If you're based at Langstone Manor Holiday Park or Lydford Caravan & Camping Park, both within easy driving distance, Twist makes a worthwhile detour on a longer ramble rather than a standalone visit. The moorland setting's pleasant enough, particularly on clear days when you can see across the landscape. Go in summer when the ground's drier and the light's better for photographs. It's the sort of place that stays with you more for the atmosphere than the spectacle.