My city, Exeter, has a 12 mile circle of paths around it, going through valley parks, nature reserves, town parks and cemeteries. Because the path passes through so many green spaces – as well as leafy residential areas, on the quiet it is a haven for wildlife. There are foxes, buzzards, woodpeckers, deer and kestrel. Around the river and canal sections you may see kingfishers, mute swans and even otters.

Last weekend I walked a section of the Ludwell Valley Park. At it’s best on a clear day in high summer, when the views are beautiful and the meadows rich with the sound of chaffinch, goldfinch and even the rarer yellowhammer and cirl bunting. In early autumn there is still plenty to see if you keep your eyes open.

The remains of the meadow, left for wildlife to feast on.

The meadow was abundant and diverse in the summer.

Two small border terrorists decided to abandon me here!

So I stood around, admired the youngish oak tree, called them, stood around some more,

Squinted at the hazy view

enjoyed the holly and eventually they re-appeared.

So they had a bit of a sit down, and we all enjoyed a different view.

Then headed back to our starting point.

Admiring the rich hedgerow along the way.

Daisy debates another diversion, but we heard an animal sound, possibly a fox, bigger than her and warning her off, so she came back as soon as I called!

Ludwell valley part of the Green Circle has several entrances and you can walk three or four miles some of which will be very steep or just take a half mile level stroll. Whichever you choose, the air is fresh and its very peaceful.

I hope you enjoyed early autumn in Exeter Green Circle, this post is for Jo’s Monday Walk, she would be delighted if you joined her and her other walkers.