After some deliberation we settled on Hennock Reservoirs as the destination for this car-assisted morning ride. On arrival we rode the tracks around the Trenchford reservoir, noting that its water level was significantly below maximum. Going around the Tottiford however the reservoir seemed to be only half full. The rear portion of the reservoir, which is at a higher level, was completely drained and there was evidence of several stone artefacts exposed by the absence of water. We found out later that South West water had drained the reservoir last autumn for maintenance and that the foundations of ancient buildings had been uncovered as a result. Time Team even came to investigate in August, and programme being broadcast at some point in 2011. We just enjoyed the sunshine and the unusual opportunity to walk on the now grassy bottom of the reservoir.

The ride had been delightful but had also been rather short, so we finished with a spin down the hill to the village of Lustleigh where we were able to confirm that the cafe is still doing business.

Last night's forecast of heavy rain all night and continuing until late afternoon proved somewhat inaccurate: it certainly rained all night, but everything had cleared through by the time our ride started. New rider Jack (he came on a social earlier in the year), who had already ridden out from Staverton, had no difficulty with our ride this morning which started by riding along the lower Hembury track. The Holy Brook was in full flow today but there seemed to be nearly as much water running down the track as well!

From Gallant Le Bower we rode down the track through Holne Woods past the newly-felled timber and on through River Dart Adventures where all the campers had finally gone home.

Today's perfect weather was just too good to waste on a morning ride, and as we were long overdue for a Dartmoor ride we headed up to Cold East Cross via Ashburton and Ausewell hill.

First stop was Bonehill rocks, one of the many Devon locations used by Steven Spielberg in his recent shooting of the film War Horse. The youngsters spent 25 minutes climbing the rocks and looking for letterboxes before we descended the hill to Widecombe for a welcome refreshment stop in the Cafe on the Green.

Jack and Callum bought extra drinks from the shop near the village green and after soaking up the tranquil village scene we took the road to Ponsworthy with its steep descent to Ponsworthy bridge.

Now came decision time: we could take the easier route home via Leusdon and Spitchwick, or tackle an extra climb for the reward of Dr Blackall's drive. Michael was very impressed when the youngsters chose the more adventurous option, and we were soon chatting with a pair of interesting cyclists from London on the climb through Lock's Gate Cross.

We pumped our tyres at the car park at Bel Tor Corner: Callum refused to accept that the reason for Michael's new pump falling apart was anything to do with the way he had been using it! After the initial rough section of the track we quickly found ourselves looking over some of the most spectacular views in Devon and thoroughly enjoyed the track as it wound its way along the upper edge of the Dart valley. As usual we took the track descent to New Bridge: it was a little overgrown today but we still managed to have a lot of fun negotiating the twists and turns.

At New Bridge car park we chatted briefly with South Hams CTC while enjoying ice creams from the van, then returned home via Hembury Woods which concluded one of the best rides so far this season.

Fabulous autumn leaves adorned our route along Colston Road and along the cycle path to Dartington. Today we were able to continue along the riverside path to Totnes where even more spectacular colours awaited us. This really did turn out to be a fabulous cycle ride.

We haven't visited the Barrel House cafe for a long time, and today it proved just as welcoming as ever with an open fire burning just inside the door and comfortable sofas arranged conveniently nearby. The hot chocolates and teacakes were excellent and we really didn't feel like leaving.

Our return route along Barracks Hill took us down memory lane for Jack who had lived in Dartington when he was younger and had frequently visited his gran at Week. The farm lanes took us quickly to the hill leading to the timber yard and we returned to Buckfastleigh via the Pennywell downhill.