Best natural monuments around Belstone are located on the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. This area is characterized by dramatic granite tors, expansive moorland, and river valleys. These geological formations and landscapes offer unique natural features. Belstone serves as a gateway to these remarkable sites, providing access to significant natural landmarks.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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Hunters Tor on Dartmoor – overview and practical guide Notes on the feature Name variants: Hunters Tor (also found in some guides as “Hunters’ Tor” or “Hunters Tor” with occasional apostrophe usage). It is one of the granite tors you’ll encounter on the eastern Dartmoor plateau. Location context: Situated on the eastern Dartmoor moor, in the general area between Widecombe-in-the-Moor and the higher moorland to the north and east. It’s often visited as part of longer routes from classic eastern Dartmoor starting points. What to expect Elevation and geology: A granite tor typical of Dartmoor—weathered outcrops with rough boulder features and exposed granite. Provides a vantage point to survey surrounding moorland. Scenery: Wide moorland views with horizon lines; potential for good visibility across East Dartmoor on clear days. Getting there Access points: Likely starting points include car parks and laybys near the eastern moor, with access from roads serving Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Ashburton, or Two Bridges. Public transport: Buses to nearby villages with a short walk onto the moor; check current timetables. Parking: Local parking areas around the eastern moorland; follow local signage and
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Sharp Tor on Dartmoor – overview and tips Notes on the name Sharp Tor is a well-known tor on Dartmoor, sometimes spelled “Sharp Tor” or “Sharp’s Tor” in regional references. It is one of the classic granite tors that dot the eastern moor. Location context: Sharp Tor sits in the eastern part of Dartmoor National Park, behind or near the villages of Widecombe-in-the-Moor and intersecting with other moorland features such as Haytor and Hound Tor in the wider area. What to expect Elevation and geology: Granite tor forming a rocky outcrop that offers elevated views over the surrounding moor. Typical Dartmoor granite features, weathered by wind and rain into distinctive boulders and crags. Scenery: Expansive moorland around, open horizons, and, on clear days, distant views toward the coast. Getting there Access points: - Likely starting points include nearby car parks on the eastern Dartmoor plateau and routes from towns like Ashburton or Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Public transport: Bus routes to nearby villages with a short walk onto the moor. Parking: Depending on the exact access point, there are local parking areas; check current signage and National Trust/ Dartmoor NPA guidance. Popular routes and what to expect Short circulars: There are moorland circuits that incorporate Sharp Tor as a highlight, often around 2–4 miles (3–6 km) depending on the exact start point. Longer explorations: Combine Sharp Tor with adjacent tors such as Hound Tor, Widecombe area, or more northern tors for a full moorland day. Expect rolling moorland
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The views from both Great Links and Brat Tor are incredible. On a clear day you can see both the North Coast and South Coast as well as Bodmin Moor. The River Lyd stepping stone crossing is nice but there is still a wooden bridge crossing if you are a little unsteady on your feet.
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The first impression of this simple but solidly crafted small sacred monument from 1887 is powerful and imposing. The lonely stone cross can be seen from afar thanks to its exposed location. The ancient, venerable cross is a natural part of this environment and one could almost think that it is literally growing out of the rock from which it rises to a proud height.
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The ever so slightly smaller summit of High Willhays, Yes Tor feels grander due to the large granite outcrop. Standing beside the triangulation point atop of Yes Tor offers beautiful views in all directions. A must climb if hiking with the Meldon area.
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Highest point of Devon and Southern England at 621m, accesible form various routes within the area. Although not as grand or striking as other Tors in the area such as Yes, Great Links or West Mills it offers beautiful 360 degree views in all directions.
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High Willhays is the highest point but it’s neighbour yes tor always feels somewhat grander, for a steep descent and climb head down past fordsland ledge into the okemont valley and back up to kitty tor
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For those looking to clarify camping regulations following the high court ruling on wild camping, there is a link in this video's description https://youtu.be/kRD59PI9jZI
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Belstone is renowned for its dramatic granite tors, expansive moorland, and picturesque river valleys. You'll encounter fascinating geological formations like the massive granite boulders (clitter) on Belstone Tor and the distinct jointing patterns on Higher Tor. The area also features diverse landscapes shaped by the River Taw and East Okement River.
Beyond the well-known summits, you can explore Hunter’s Tor, which offers stunning views of the surrounding moorland, similar to its more frequented neighbor. Another impressive site is Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge), providing exceptional views of the Teign Gorge, Castle Drogo, and Dartmoor's high northern plateau.
Yes, the area blends natural beauty with ancient history. The Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is a significant natural monument featuring the tallest granite cross on Dartmoor, erected in 1887. Additionally, the Nine Maidens Stone Circle, a Bronze Age cairn circle southwest of Belstone, is steeped in local folklore and offers an easy walk from the village.
While beautiful year-round, autumn is particularly impressive for visiting the river valleys like Taw Plain and Belstone Cleave, as the foliage displays vibrant colors. Clear days in spring and summer offer the best panoramic views from the tors. Always check weather conditions before heading out onto the moor.
Many of the natural monuments, especially those with shorter approaches, can be enjoyed by families. For example, the Nine Maidens Stone Circle is an easy two-mile round trip walk from Belstone village. When planning, consider the difficulty ratings of specific routes; some tors may involve more challenging terrain.
The region around Belstone offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy loops like 'Belstone to Sticklepath loop via Tarka Trail' or more challenging ones like 'Oke Tor & Cosdon Beacon loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Belstone guide. Mountain biking and running routes are also popular, with dedicated guides available for MTB Trails around Belstone and Running Trails around Belstone.
Parking options vary depending on the specific monument. For instance, there is a free car park not far from the base of Brat Tor, which provides access to Widgery Cross. For other areas, look for local parking areas or laybys near common access points onto the moorland. Always follow local signage.
Public transport to Belstone and nearby villages is available, which can then be followed by a walk onto the moor. For specific routes and timings, it's best to check current bus timetables for services to villages like Belstone or Okehampton, which serve as gateways to the Dartmoor National Park.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the tors, especially from points like Belstone Tor, which offers northward views stretching to the North Devon coast on clear days. The raw and rugged beauty of Dartmoor, the unique granite formations, and the sense of peace found on the expansive moorland are also highly valued.
Dartmoor National Park is generally very dog-friendly, and many natural monuments around Belstone are accessible with dogs. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially during lambing season (March 1 - July 31) and when livestock are present, to protect both your pet and the local wildlife and farm animals.
The area boasts some of Dartmoor's highest points. High Willhays summit is the highest point on Dartmoor, and Yes Tor summit is the second highest. Both offer incredible vistas of North Devon and Cornwall. Note that these are close to a military range, so check firing times before your visit at dartmoor-ranges.co.uk.
While the River Taw and East Okement River flow through the area, specific designated wild swimming spots near the natural monuments are not explicitly highlighted. Always exercise caution, check water conditions, and respect private land when considering wild swimming in any natural body of water.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Belstone: