Dartmoor Tors and Hilltops

Running through the darkness - 26th January 2012

2012-01-27T03:07:00.000-08:00

On a cold and clear night myself and friend Oliver Marner set off just after dark for a run which would take in 5 tors. It was cold, the thermometer on the car said 3 degrees, but with the wind chill it was must much colder. First up Gutter Tor (144) a short simple run up from the car park, we were soon departing the tor, as hanging around was not an option. Now the maps came out, I've been to Legis Tor (167) from Gutter Tor a number of times but the dark changes everything. So we followed the fence south, ticking off first the bridleway, then the track before seeing the outline of the tor set against the orange glow of the lights of Plymouth. On top of the tor we paused and Oliver decided to take off a layer (fool!!). We moved off east making the River Plym in good time, and contemplated the crossing. There was nothing for it but a wade across!! Boy it was cold, but as we trotted away we soon warmed up. Through the settlement before following Hentor Brook up for nearly a km, taking it carefully so not to climb too high before heading over to Hen Tor (101). Really cold on Hen Tor so we moved off the top quickly. We took a little detour to check on my Geocache Three Chicks and a Fox, which seemed to be in good order. Next we contoured into Shavercombe Brook before following it down in search of the tor. This was the first time either of us had been out here and we were impressed with the steep side gully and waterfall we found, one to visit in the future. We carried on a little still looking for Shavercombe Tor (147) which isn't really marked on the OS or Harvey's maps. After a couple of false starts we stood on it's summit before running off in to the night, felling really cold now after a slow search. We trot ted down to the river, putting off the crossing as long as we could, we find a good spot three strides in the water up on to a boulder then jump to the bank. Up to Ditsworthy Warren House, used in the movie Warhorse, before turning north to the last tor of the night, Eastern Tor (156). Not a typical tor it covers a large flat area scattered with numerous unremarkable boulders. I convinced Oli that coming off west back to the track was the way to go, but regretted it as we ran through ankle deep bog, skirting Gutter Mire, the standing water was so much colder than the rivers we had waded earlier. The pain was intense and shot up my legs, I was glad to make the track and jogging soon pushed the blood around and warmth returned to my legs. All in all a good evening out.

Is this Shavercombe Tor? .........No

Hartland, Stannon and Sittaford Tor

2012-01-24T12:22:00.000-08:00

Sheepfold below Stannon Tor

I wasn’t sure what the weather was going to do so I took arisk and drove up to Postbridge. Onleaving Bovey Tracey the weather was fine and bright but as I crossed the moorsit became patchier. I took the path tothe north of the river and it wasn’t before I was in ankle deep mud, not toworry I was sure my trail shoes would be up to it. First tor of the day was Hartland Tor (106),clouds were streaming across the sky and sun was quickly followed byshade. The itself is nothing remarkablebut it’s a good starting point to get deeper into the moors. I followed the ridge north until the furthestwall boundary. I stopped here to get the kite out for a bit for Kite AerialPhotography, basically you lift the camera with the kite, set the camera totake photos every 5 seconds or so and hope for the best! My goal was to capture the beautiful stonesheepfold which is part way up the hillside of Stannon Tor (71). I kept the kite up all the way to StannonTor. There isn’t really much too StannonTor but it does give great views west over the moors, and today you could seethe weather driving in from the west, blue skies followed quickly by blackclouds and the threat of rain. Icontinued north The Grey Wethers Stone Circles, where again I got the kite outtrying to capture the stone circle from the air hoping for the sun to come outand cast some magical shadows from the stones. Alas the weather wouldn’t play ball. I pulled the kite up to Sittaford Tor (24) and climbed over the topacross a style, no easy task with the kite pulling hard, to west side to try andget shots from a very different angle. As it was quite windy now I decided to keep the kite up until I got intothe lee of the hill. I soon crossed thewall to the south and found some good walking which enabled me to lower thekite on the move. Soon the kite was downand packed away and started the journey back to Postbridge and the car. It was only when I got home and plugged thecamera into the computer that I could take a look at the results.

Stannon Tor

Sheep on Stannon Tor with Fernworthy in the distance

Stannon Tor

The Grey Wethers Stone Circles

Sittaford Tor

Hartland Tor viewed from the west

Sharp Tor and Hunters Tor - 12th Dec 2011

2011-12-16T04:04:00.000-08:00

Sharp Tor, Nr Castle Drogo

Two Orienteering races over the weekend had left my legs stiff, but I wanted to get out and back on the Tor Trail after such a long break predominately due to a calf injury suffered in July. Happily that seems to be behind me and so I set off for a walk with Bramble to explore the in the valley below Castle Drogo. We set off from Fingle Bridge and climbed on the path to Drewston Common, after the initial climb the path levels off and offers great views over the moors with Kes Tor in full view. We were soon at Sharp Tor (181), an interesting Tor perched on the side of the valley. We didn't venture to far out along the Tor as the rock was wet and slippery. We continued on to Hunters Tor (180) which sat atop a long spur. Not stopping long as the rain had now set in we descended into the valley and keeping to the northern riverbank we followed the path alongside the river back to Fingle Bridge.

Down Tor, Coombehead Tor and Sheeps Tor

2011-06-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

Pictures from 7 June 2011

2011-06-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Little Fox Tor

Fox Tor

The run down to Calveslake Tor

Calveslake Tor

Perfect 10

2011-05-21T07:43:00.000-07:00

Tom on Swelltor

North Hessary Tor

Another beautiful evening for a run over the moors. I met with Will Hancock and Tom Davidson at Princetown and set off down the disused railway, after the trees we turned left for the climb to North Hessary Tor (36). This would be a stunning Tor if weren't for the television mast which has been in place since the 1950's I guess before the creation of Dartmoor National Park. The Tor does offer a great view point, with stunning views of the north moor. We continued north for the small hop to Rundlestone Tor (49), before turning to the west to Hollow Tor (61). We then turned our attention to Foggin Tor, a small detour saw us take in one of the makers on the Abbot's Way , with it's distinctive A for Ashburton on it's eastern side and T for Tavistock on it's western. It would appear that Foggintor (110) was quarried long ago and as such doesn't survive as Tor anymore (But I would happily revisit this area if I was to hear differently). From the eastern edge of the quarry we drop down to cross the old railway before climbing to a small tor on the south-eastern flank of the hill. Is this Swelltor (204) or was that to excavated during the quarrying here. Whatever the answer the small tor is very nice with an excellent stack. We turned north to Kings Tor (115), and this tor was most definitely there and offers a lot to explore. We discussed the plan from here and decided to head over to Ingra Tor, Leeden Tor before heading home. We descended off the tor, in an effort to find the unused corbels that were destined for the old London Bridge, we dropped right onto these. They always appear to me that they have been here just a short time and will picked up any time. We dropped down to the disused railway for the run around to Ingra Tor. On the way we took and quick detour to Fur Tor (202) and Yes Tor(203) both omitted from the list and no where to be seen on the OS map, but are clearly marked on the Harvey's 1:40,000 of Dartmoor. Fur Tor in particular is a nice little tor with a some big slabs of rock. Ingra Tor (151) was soon reached and we turned our attention to Leeden Tor (124), with a easy run run along a friendly sheep track. We took our final rest on top before the 3km run back to Princetown. Another excellent run in ideal conditions.

Will on Rundlestone Tor

Hollow Tor

Above Foggintor Quarry

Nice view point on Swelltor

Fur Tor and Yes Tor as shown on the Harveys Map

100 up!

2011-05-16T12:02:00.000-07:00


100 up! Will, Me and Oliver on Leather Tor

Still Celebrating on Cramber Tor

Tom, Oliver, Will and Me on Cramber Tor

Sun Burst Over Leeden Tor

Watching the sun burst on Hart Tor

Oliver on the run down from Cramber Tor

So four of us, Oliver, Will, Tom and Myself gathered below Sharpitor (108), to start the run that would see me reach my 100^th Dartmoor Tor/Hilltop. It would also see my friend Tom climb his first Tor, so it was all set for an eventful evening run. Starting up hill I was never the best of ideas but that’s how it is sometime. It wasn’t long before the four of us, via four different routes climbed to the top of Sharpitor to survey the view and pat Tom on the back for losing his Tor virginity. The scattergun approach to our group continued as we all favoured differing routes off the Tor. I opted for the double back and go wide approach to cut out the worst of the clitter, before the pleasant run down to the beginning of the climb to Leather Tor (123), one of my favourites on the moor. This tor, breaches the side of the hill to create a nice ridge walk, and has great views over Burrator Reservoir and Sheeps Tor beyond, it was always favourite when I was leading groups over the moors. So this was number 100 and we stop for some photos and to admire the view. We clambered off the west side and hugged the hillside, slowly gaining height to Peek Hill (116), not stopping we turned and skirted the north edge of Stanlake Plantation which was showing the signs of tree felling as the Larch has been taken out to stop the spread of Sudden Oak Death. We followed Devonport Leat until after the Aqueduct before breaking away to Cramber Tor (95) the high point of the run. From there we surveyed an incredible sun burst through the clouds, wish I had my DSLR instead of an ancient point and shoot. The run to Hart Tor (119) gives an opportunity to stretch your legs, on a well worn path partly thanks to the recruits from HMS Raleigh that pass this way during there basic training. From Hart Tor we ran down to the stone rows and the remains of the blowing house near Black Tor Falls, before the small climb up to the summit of Black Tor (143). The military were setting up on Black Tor as it was the annual Ten Tors event over the weekend and the tor is major checkpoint during the event. We crossed the road shortly after leaving the tor and skirted below Leeden Tor, cut around the hill and were soon back at the cars. A really good run, on a beautiful evening with great friends, what more can you ask for.

I’ll be out this Thursday if you fancy a run, meet at Princetown Main Car Park at 1745, maybe see you there.

Join me for number 100!

2011-05-09T05:47:00.000-07:00

Anyone up for a shortish fell run on Thursday after work? We would take in at least two tors to bring up the 100 Tor/hilltops since starting last July. The plan would be to meet either in Plymouth at 1715 or on the Plymouth to Princetown road in Sharpitor Car Park 1745/1800 We would take in Shapitor before heading to Leather Tor to celebrate number 100. Anyone wanting to can walk directly to Leather Tor and meet us there. For those of you who have had enough you can head off or tag along to visit Peek Hill, Cramber Tor, Hart Tor, Black Tor and Leeden Tor a total distance of 9km, at a nice pace with the option of bugging out at anytime.

and so to the North Moor

2011-05-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

Out for a run on the north moor from near Shilstone Tor. Firstly over to Buttern Hill(201), again not on the original list, but a nice spot non the less and duely added to my list. Then over to Rippator or Rival Tor(140), got a little carried away and ran right over the top, not even stopping until I got to Watern Tor(30). I arrived a little confused, but on a checking the map I regained my bearings and spent sometime exploring the Tor. A little gem and one that I haven't been to for probably 20 years, but one that will be returning to in the near future with camera in hand. Then over to Wild Tor which I have already ticked off but going that way set up the fast run down to Hound Tor(47), then over to the less than impressive Little Hound Tor(48) via a nice little stone circle. Next it was up to Cosdon Beacon(11) which at 550m gives great views all around. The last leg was back to Shilstone Tor(162), in 25 years of walking on the moors the leg from the east to Shilstone Tor has been made numerous times, but one that I have never really got to grips with. Today was no different and drifted to far south before adjusting into Tor. I haven't been to Shilstone Tor since I re-ran my 35mile Ten Tors Route in 2005, with my friend Oliver Marner. Then I was an hour and a half into a 12.5hr epic! Yesterday my run was over and I was happy after a great run.

Shilstone Tor

Cosdon Beacon looking towards Yes Tor

Watern Tor

Watern Tor with Wild Tor in the back ground

Hound Tor

Run from Harford Moor Gate

2011-03-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

View from Sharp Tor

Trig Point on Three Barrows

Barrow on Hillson's House

Add caption

Tristis Rock

Another stunning spring day on the moors so I headed off to Harford Gate. The first thing I noticed was a tor on the other side of the valley, I would check it out on the map when I got to my first Tor. Quickly got into my running and in no time at all I was at Sharp Tor (103) enjoying the views. I took the opportunity to look at the map, the Tor in question was Tristis Rock, I had difficulty in telling on my out of date map, whether I would be able to get to it or not, but decided I would go and have a look. Next I made my way to Three barrows (70) where I met some walkers they were locals so I asked them about access to Tristis Rock, to which they said it was all good and there were no issues with private land. I continued on to the old clay pits at Left Lake before turning left, dropping into the valley to cross the Erme at a small damn. A welcome stop to pass the time of day with two local farmers who were out checking on their sheep before lambing begins. Then the long climb to Hilson's House (199), I managed about 75 metres of tough climbing before my lungs and legs gave up the game and I walked the last 30 metre or so of the climb. The more I make my way on this journey through the list more I wonder if the author really did get out there for surely he wouldn't have missed so many of these Tors and hilltops if he had. Hilson's House and my next target of Tristis have been added to my list. So I head off to the west to visit one of my favourite stone rows. It must be over 400 metres in length. From the end of the row some stunning running terrain allows you to eat up the remain km to the start of the field system in no time at all, and soon I was running along another stone row less impressive but just as long which led me into Tristis Rock (200). A great little Tor with great views. Now all that was left was to drop into the valley cross the Erme once again and make the short run back to the car.

Route Link

11th March 2011 - Eastern and Western White Barrow

2011-03-18T13:58:00.000-07:00

Aydin at Eastern White Barrow

Western White Barrow

Red Lake Clay Tip

Huntington Hill

Huntington Cross

Crossing the Avon Aydin Style

Snowdon and more - 7th March 2011

2011-03-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

Pupers Hill

It looked like it was going to be a pleasant day and after a weekend of jobs around the house it was the ideal opportunity to get out for a walk. No running at the moment after a twisted knee last week orienteering. So satnav programmed it was off to near Lud Gate not far from Buckfastleigh. This is the best access in the area to the east side of the south moor, it does however does involve a 1km track/road walk to the moor edge. There was more cloud cover than I was expecting when I started my climb up to Pupers Hill(67) and I was quickly reminded of the time of year when I got out of the shelter of the trees. But as long as you didn't hang around to long it was very pleasant walking conditions. It wasn't long before Bramble and me reached the cairn on the top of Pupers. I have been out here before but that must have been some 7 or 8 years ago. There were some good views to be had over the moors but to the east it was still hazy so no views to be had there. It was nice to see Huntington Warren and it reminded me that I should add it to my list, that and Red Lake which can be seen sticking out like a volcano from all over the south moor. I quickly dashed across to outer Pupers to pick up a geocache. Not hanging around long I started the short walk over to Snowdon (197) not on the original list but one that is defiantly worth adding. Two cairn/tumuli are the only features on this plateau of the summit. It bear no resemblance to it's namesake in North Wales but does offer good views and is certainly less busy. Next it was on to Ryders Hill (37) again a short hop but this time over wetter ground, I started off carefully trying to avoid getting wet feet but soon gave up that game. Ryders Hill is indistinct and without there being a trig to tell you are there you may well miss it. With the fog down it could be a nice challenge, but today we were walking under blue skies. A 70m detour, enabled me to pick up my second geocache of the day then back to the trig for a quick chat with some walkers, one of who was 120 tors into his challenge and using the same reference book. We quickly chatted about our challenge, extra tors we had discovered before they sped off to Snowdon. The easiest way back was to retrace my original path, but that is rarely satisfying, so I head off east and skirted along the eastern flank of Snowdon, below Snowdon Hole to the spring, before following the leat to the track back to the car. A beautiful day in some stunning scenery.

Ryders Hill

Nut Crackers! - 4th March 2011

2011-03-07T10:45:00.000-08:00

Looking towards Pil Tor

Time to walk the dog, a quick look a the map reminded me that I had been meaning to get out to the Nut Crackers near Rippon Tor. This seemed the perfect day for it. I made my way to just below Rippon before turning right to the Nut Crackers. It was not to bad going underfoot, but better for walking than for running. It was well worth the visit, a small tor but plenty to explore. Will add it to my list as I believe it is worthy.

Rocks near the site of the Nut Crackers

Classic Dartmoor Wall!!

31st January - Ravens Tor

2011-02-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Second attempt to bag Ravens tor (179) after fighting with the undergrowth in the summer. No real problems this time, although the Tor is not as spectacular as I was expecting. There are some far more interesting unmapped outcrops nearby. But a nice walk on a bright wintery day.

Bowerman's Nose - 24th January

2011-01-28T03:05:00.000-08:00

Bowerman's Nose

Hay Tor and Hound Tor from near Bowerman's Nose

So quick walk up to Bowerman's Nose (118) with the dog on a cold a dull afternoon. Seems odd that none of the surrounding tors are named, but have some interesting shapes and structures. Hope to return here when the light is slightly better to take some more photos. The nose itself is a great piece of granite, but not as spectactular as I had hoped.

Ten more Tors - 21st Jan

2011-01-23T14:12:00.000-08:00

Crockern Tor looking to Princetown

Littaford Tor

Awoke to the most glorious of days, so headed straight up on to the moors after the school run. Found a great little parking space below Crockern Tor (114). So quickly up to the tor, the former home of the stannary parliament . Then off north to Littaford Tor (68) before tor hopping all the way up to Longaford Tor (41), always worth the climb to the top as you get views in every direction. Didn't spend to much time as it was still cold, but luckily no wind so ideal running conditions. Short hop to Higher White Tor (29) and Lower White Tor (42) before turning west to Crow Tor (43). I have visited Crow Tor many times as it was a favourite on our Ten Tors training walks whilst at school, but I can never remember climbing to the top. In fact I didn't think it would be possible to get up there so was nice to find out I was mistaken. I think Crow Tor would make my top 10 favourite tors. Next I headed north to Rough Tor (16), which always looks like a submarine to me from this direction. Next I turned west again to the high point of the day, a little navigational error took me to far south so I had head north to find Devil's Tor (14) and Beardown Man. Time to turn for home now via Lydford Tor (44) and the three tors of Beardown Tor (38), before crossing the West Dart at the weir, avoiding the ice covered rocks. Soon running back over Crockern Tor and back to the car. What a great run on a truely stunning dartmoor winters day.

Longaford Tor with Higher White Tor in the background


Crow Tor

Rough Tor

Beardown Man on Devil's Tor

Lydford Tor looking back to Crow Tor

Beardown Tors

it's been a while!

2011-01-16T03:24:00.000-08:00

So December becomes the first blank month on my exploration of the moors, mainly due to being down under for some winter sun. Turns out I missed the best of the snow, which is a little bit gutting. Anyway yesterday I eased my way back in with a short walk with Helen out to Wels Tor (128). The tor is a pretty unremarkable collection of small rocks, but 200m to the west stands the more impressive Buckland Beacon (195) and though unlisted on my original list I am more than happy to add it. The Beacon is also home to the Ten Commandments Stone and although due to the strong wind we failed to get to them, I will return to photograph the tors and stones, hopefully being able stand up without fear of being blown away.

Black and Shipley Tor

2010-11-29T10:39:00.000-08:00

Black Tor above the River Avon

Black Tor with Shipley Tor in the background

Midday walk from Shipley Bridge on the River Avon. Again I was greeted with blue skies, frozen ground but none of the snow which has left many parts of the country at a stand still. Bramble and I started up the track towards Avon Dam and we soon encountered the bitter north easterly wind. We left the track at the first junction and made our way up to Black Tor (160) over the clitter and was pleased to see a really nice looking tor, hadn't really expected this as the OS map gives little indication of this. After quickly surveying the area from the top of the tor we made our way off north down to the bridge. Carefully we crossed the ice covered bridge and started the climb across the hill towards Shipley Tor (169), we crossed a number bogs on the way, all of which were frozen solid and made crossing a real pleasure. We soon made it to Shipley Tor, still in bright sunshine, again a nice bit of granite. We followed the wall down to the river as I had seen a path coming straight down. I wondered if this would lead to a bridge or easy crossing point, there was nothing on the map but thought I might chance it, rather than the 1 mile long round trip to the bridge. When we got there we were faced with a mid shin wade or the mile walk! I opted for the wade as it was only a short back to the car from the other side. Even with the frozen ground and ice on the banks of the river, the water wasn't all that bad. All was left after that was to slide back down the road to the Car Park. Another great winter walk, would be nice to get out on the moor with some snow, but that might have to wait until after Christmas now.

Black Tor from Shipley Tor

Along the wall to Shipley Tor

Shipley Tor

A Winters Run - 26th November 2010

2010-11-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

Sharp Tor

View from Chinkwell Tor to Honeybag Tor

A crisp winters day, blue skies and very little breeze meant perfect conditions for a gentle run taking in 6 tors including one not listed, but marked on the Harvey's map so that takes the list up to 194. I started with Hollow Tor (139), a small Tor which overlooks the popular moorland village of Widecombe. Next it was on to Bonehill Rocks (117), just a small school group climbing today, not like the summer when the place is crawling with tourist. Then a short climb to Bell Tor (111), which commands great views over the Hay Tor and Hound Tor area. From there it gets quite confusing. The OS map shows little detail on the summit above, and the labelling of Chinkwell Tor makes it difficult to pinpoint. The Harveys map makes this a little clearer, but adds in Sharp Tor not mentioned on the OS map. So I have concluded that Chinkwell Tor (113) sits on the top of the hill above Bell Tor with Sharp Tor (194) on the side of the hill to the West. So from Bell Tor I contoured around to Sharp Tor before making the final climb to Chinkwell Tor, before making the small decent and climb to my final tor of the day Honeybag Tor (78). I spent some minutes passing the time of day with two walkers. They were out on there regular Friday walk, they had notched up some 150 walks in South Devon and Dartmoor and had as yet not been back over the same ground. This really does indicate the rich walking area we live in. We said our farewells and I skirted Chinkwell and Bell Tor to the east and crossed to Bonehill Rocks before heading to the car. An excellent run out, on beautiful day.

GPS Track

Dartmoor Runners - Shelstone Tor and Hunt Tor - 21th November 2010

2010-11-21T11:14:00.000-08:00

Excellent event on the North West side of the moors from High Down. Nice run out to Shelstone Tor (122) before turning for the climb upto Branscombe Loaf then over to Hunt Tor (10). Nearly suckered into Gren Tor but decided to leave it for another day. After Hunt Tor skirted Great Links Tor before the hard slog over to Chat Tor. Nice run down to a wall corner across the river from Doe Tor only stopping to pick up an OMM map from a few weeks ago. Then off back to High Down battling the gorse before the run in.

Wintery and Wild

2010-11-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

7th November 2010

Out and about for a Dartmoor Runners event from Belstone. This is probably the corner of the moor I know the least so its nice to get out for a run over this area. The run took in two tors Winter Tor (98) which I haven't visited before and Wild Tor (27). Apt really as it certainly was Wintery and Wild. . Looking forward to visiting this part of the moor again soon, still plenty to do.

View Winter and Wild Tor in a larger map

50 up!! 143 to go!!

2010-11-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Original Mountain Marathon has meant that many parts of Dartmoor have been off limits for a while. So it's good to get this event out of the way, and also good to get to visit some 10 Tors whilst competing. My full report on this event can be found at www.ineedtotrain.blogspot.com . No photo's I am afraid but here are the tors I visited.

Saturday 30th October
Yes Tor (2)

Lints Tor (46)

Hare Tor (26)

Chat Tor (18)

Branscombe's Loaf (25)

Great Nodden (85)

Sunday 31st October

Kitty Tor (8)

Steng-a-Tor (22)

Sourton Tor (81)

East Mill Tor 'A' (53)

Really looking forward to getting back to this area again I am sure I will revisit many of these again especially the tor a long the ridge above Dinger Valley which is my favourite area on the moor.

Western Beacon, Butterdon Hill, Hangershell Rocks and Ugborough Beacon

2010-10-21T14:05:00.000-07:00

Sunset on Western Beacon

A beautiful Autumn evening on the very southern tip of the moor. From the car it was a straight climb up to Western Beacon (155) and the first view of the setting sun. Then a welcome run down to Black Pool, before the climb to Butterdon Hill (138). As the sun continued to set, I continued to Hangershell Rock and though not on my original list it was certainly worth a visit, From there I turned east now with the last of the sun on my back I made for Ugborough Beacon (129). I spied a group on horseback near the beacon, but when looked again they had disappeared! I got to the beacon in time for the last of the days sun. I ran south over Eastern Beacon, before enjoying the run across to the wall above Cuckoo Ball and then picking up the path back to the car. A really beautiful evening for a run over some classic south moor terrain. GPS Track

Butterdon Hill

Hangershell Rock

Ugborough Beacon

Black Hill

2010-10-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

First run since the long O. Have been suffering from a sore hip after landing funny, running off one of the tors. So decided to take it easy for a while, don't want to miss the OMM. It felt good on the run this morning although a little bit of discomfort tonight, but it will have to drop off for me to miss this one. My run took in Black Hill(104) which is the last of the points in the Hay Tor area of my attempt to visit all the tors and hilltops on Dartmoor, visit my Dartmoor Tors Blog for more info (and to read this again!!). Looking forward to being able to get back on the main body of the moor after the OMM.

GPS Track

Hound Tor and Greator Rocks - 8th October

2010-10-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hound Tor

Took a gamble after the school run and headed off to Hound Tor (102) which I knew would be in the mist, but I felt that it would soon clear and could lead to some interesting photo's. Unfortunately it never did and after 90mins of scrambling and rambling on Hound and Greator Rocks(133) it came in worse than ever. Still love a good wonder on the moors in the mist.


A quick view of Hound Tor from Greator Rocks

Greator Rocks

Four More in the Bag

2010-09-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

Really beautiful midday on the moors started off cool, until the clouds rolled back and it really started to heat up. Probably not a day to sit around as still a cold wind, but an ideal day for a run. Started from Hay Tor car park then down to Bag Tor(148), always feel like a good runner on this stretch but it doesn't last long as soon after Bag Tor you cross the ford and start the 120m climb to Rippon Tor(62). After the first section of the climb, there is a short respite after the gate, as you follow the wall before the final ascent. Great views from Rippon Tor in every direction, making it a firm favourite. Leaving the Trig point I retraced my steps before finding the path over to Saddle Tor(158). Saddle Tor lives in the shadow of Haytor rocks, and so is much quiter but still has a large chunk of rock at its summit. Onwards now to Holwell Tor(109) my final Tor of the day, great views from here over to Greator Rocks and Hound Tor. Looking forward to racing in this area next weekend for the Devon Orienteering Club Long-O . Finally I turned for the run between Haytor Rocks and down to the Car Park. 7.1km in 55mins.

GPS Track on endomondo.com

Huccaby, Laughter and Bellever Tor

2010-09-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

Nice run on a cool Autumn like morning, started off feeling a little stiff from the two orienteering at the weekend but soon got into the running. Only a short hop to Huccaby Tor(145) on a well worn track. Then continued on the track to Laughter Tor(96) which gives good views to Coombestone Tor, Ter Hill and Ryder's Hill to the south and down into Bellever Plantation to the north. Avoiding the cows I regained the path and ran on to the trig point on Bellever Tor(79). Again good views, now the Tors of Littaford, Longaford and Higher White to the west visable. Now it was time to turn and retrace my route to the car.

Hockinston, Bench and Combestone Tor

2010-08-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

Not my favourite day to be out and about on Dartmoor, but a free day and you can't afford to miss these opportunities. So I braved the Bank Holiday madness and made my way to Dartmeet. Quickly I was away and as usual after 200m or so of walking I was away from the crowds. The path down the Dart is fairly good now, although occasionally it gets a bit vague, but it was nice walking in the woods out of the heat. I thought Hockingson Tor (184) was going to be a bit of a challenge so I took the precaution of taking my GPS. I stopped to take it out of my bag to find that I was only 180m away, not bad. Although this included quite a climb through the trees and under growth. Once there I ventured on to the main Tor which poked out of the tree canopy, giving good views to Mel, Sharp, Bench Tors and the valley below. Unfortunately I must have knocked the auto focus off as my photo's are all blurred, oh well. I was glad that on my last outing I hadn't attempted to drop down to this one from Dr Blackall's Drive as I think this would be a complete nightmare. Anyway off I set down to the river retracing my steps and looking for somewhere to cross. I eventually found somewhere to paddle across, I was glad of my walking poles as the river bed was very slippery and I had a number of people watching me. After crossing I quickly started the climb to Bench Tor (165) across boulders covered with undergrowth. This proved to be a good work out. Soon I came to the tree line and Bench Tor which spreads itself long the top of the ridge and finally peaks at 323m, some 120m above the River Dart. Great veiws all around on what is a great tor. No time to explore as much as would like today and off I went. I crossed Venford Brook below the reservoir and quickly picked up the Holne Moor Leat which I followed to just below Combestone Tor (141). Combestone Tor must be one the closest tors to the road and therefore one of the most popular on a day like today. I didn't hang around, left the Tor in my wake, before stopping for a few pictures. All that was left was to drop down the hill, cross the West Dart at the stepping stones, then back to the car.

Looking towards Venford from Bench Tor

Combestone Tor

Sharp Tor from Bench Tor

Hockinston Tor

Mel, Aish, Leigh, Luckey, Yar and CorndonTor

2010-08-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Cairn on Aish Tor

Approaching Corndon Tor

Leigh Tor

Mel Tor

Luckey Tor

View down the Dart Valley from Sharp Tor

Sharp tor

Approaching Yar tor

So another gentle run on the moors, well that was the plan. First off the the short run to Mel Tor (149) with it's great views into the River Dart valley and over to Bench Tor. Bench Tor stands at a similar height and less than a Km away, but it is vicious decent and ascent. Then a blast down Dr Blackall's Drive to Aish Tor (173), and the small cairn that marks the lack of any sort of Tor. Next I descended and crossed the road and made the short run to Leigh Tor (189). technical stuff on Leigh Tor After a little time on the summit, I turned and retraced my steps around Aish Tor, across Mel Tor and onwards towards Luckey Tor (186). It was soon obvious that the easiest route would be to descend to the river and follow it to below Luckey Tor. I was glad I did as it turned out that the most spectacular views on the Tor were from below. The Tor rises up nearly vertically from the valley floor. I quickly scrambled up the west flank and cut myself a path to the summit through the bracken. Once off the Tor I looked for some sort of path west to get around the private land before heading to Sharp Tor. But it was impossible and I was faced with no option but to return to Mel Tor, then take the path through to Sharp Tor (126). Onwards to Yar Tor (99), now the rain had really set in so I quickly turned for Corndon Tor (87) then descend for the run to the car. I really enjoyable run with contrasting Tors, unfortunately I managed to forget Hockinston Tor deep in the valley, maybe I will be brave and combine that with Bench Tor, Combestone Tor Circuit!! Who knows. The other concern is Bel Tor, which currently doesn't have any public access, I'll have to come up with a plan, any ideas.......

GPS Track on Google Earth Map

Hameldown Beacon, Hameldown Tor, Shapley Tor and Wind Tor

2010-08-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

The plan was to pick up the two points on Hameldown and then head back to Wind Tor so about an hours run. But once on the top I felt good and decided to head onwards to Shapley Tor. So my hours run soon turned into a 14km 1hour 50min run. I hadn't visited any of the points on Hameldown before and was surprised at the views both West towards Princetown and East over Hound Tor and Hay Tor. After the climb to Hameldown Beacon (34) and the ridge run to Hameldown Tor (28) I planned to pick up the path leading north east and then pickup the path to Shapley Tor. But it quickly came apparent that the path no longer exist, and so what should have been a quick and pleasant decent turned into a case of trying to pick the line of least resistance. Once on the path I quickly found myself at Shapley Tor (63). It did cross my mind at this point to head west to Birch Tor before returning. I quickly gave myself a slap and headed over to Grimspound vis Hookney Tor. The climb from Grimspound back up to Hameldown Tor hurt but I managed to "run" all of it. Once back on the top I enjoyed the run along and down the ridge, with the bonus of having the wind on my back. Once back at the car I crossed the road and headed to Wind Tor (130), the final tor of the Day. A small but nice enough Tor, I then turned for the short trot back to the car. An enjoyable run and 4 ticked off the list.

GPS Track

Difficulties ahead........

I always take part in the Original Mountain Marathon in October and have started every one since 1997. It's just been announced that this years event will be held on Dartmoor and I have a place. So whats the problem, well once the start list is published you are not allowed to train in the area. So that puts the main body of the moor out of bounds to me until after the event in October. That means I have to look carefully at what Tors I can get without going in the out of bounds. This may well slow me down a little in the coming months.

Lets go fly a kite

2010-08-08T09:23:00.000-07:00


Abbie and Helen flying their Kites on Top Tor

So off we went with Kites in Hand up to Top Tor (88) on a beautiful Sunday morning. After flying our kites for some time, we headed off to Pil Tor (97) and then to Tunhill Rocks (192) which isn't listed in the original list so again I have added on. A nice morning spent on the moor.

Pil Tor

Tunhill Rocks

Scorhill Tor, Thornworthy Tor, Frenchbeer Rock, Middle Tor and Kestor Rock

2010-08-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

Scorhill Tor

Fernworthy Reservoir from Thornworthy Tor

Myself and Bramble chanced the weather and headed for Teigncombe with the plan to take in 4 Tors from the list and 1 that isn't but really should be. With these I am going to add them on to the end of the list, so the 190 will continue to grow as I visit different areas of the moor. I am keen to hear of more, so if you have any suggestions then let me have them. First we followed the wall around to Scorhill Tor (134), via Scorhill Circle. I remember visiting Scorhill Circle on a DofE expedition a while ago now but we didn't make the short walk to the Tor, so this was my first visit. A nice little Tor which sits neatly on the side of the hill looking down on the North Teign River. Next we retraced our steps and made our way to Thornworthy Tor (93), via the stone rows which litter the side of Shovel Down, we crossed the wall and started the short climb to the Tor. The weather had really improved now and we were treated to great views all around although Bramble seemed interested in other things. We left the Tor and headed for Frenchbeer Rock (191), before turning back towards the car over Middle Tor(100) and Kestor Rock (86). We paused on Kestor to take in the view, now I can look out and see places already visited (Hunters Tor) and also those to come including Steeperton, Wild, and Watern Tors.

Kestor Rock

Frenchbeer Rock

Middle Tor

GPS Track

Hay Tor

2010-08-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

Marcus on the steps to the summit

Just out for an evening walk with Marcus and Dan, who are down visiting. Unfortunately the sunset didn't materialise, it was so close to being a classic. However it was a great evening, and Hay Tor was quiet with only a few walkers and two brave climbers playing in the wind.

Hay Tor Rocks

Sharpitor, Hunters and back for Raven Tor another day

2010-08-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

Sharpitor

Hay Tor on the Horizon

Hunters Tor

In my opinion some Dartmoor Tors are worth a visit any time of the year, in any conditions, but as I found today others are at their best at certain times of the year. Sharpitor nr Lustleigh I hope is one of the latter, as in the peak of summer there is little to see. It reminded me of a lost Inca city, taken back from humans by nature. So I plan to go back this winter and have a good look around, anyway I have to go back as we failed to get to Raven Tor at all. If I been on my own I would have gone for it but with Abbie and Bramble it would have quickly turned into an epic. We did manage to find three Geocaches so Abbie was happy. The views of Hay Tor, Hound Tor and Bowerman's Nose were excellent. We continued on to Hunters Tor where we had lunch, a nice tor spoiled only by a farmers fence cutting through the centre of the Tor. After lunch we doubled back on ourselves, returning to the car.

King Tor, Hookney Tor and nearly Shapley Tor

2010-08-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

King Tor

Hookney Tor

I was going to collect all of the Tors in this area during a run yesterday, but alas a dodgy calf meant that I called it off and instead worked in the garden! But today I ventured out with Abbie and Bramble to take in a couple on what was a nice day. We started up the hill past Grimspound and contoured into 3. King Tor (51). Although not a spectacular tor in itself it is worth a visit as on a clear day there are excellent views to be had. Next we headed for King's Barrow, before striding off to 4. Hookney Tor (45). A nice tor to stop, relax and have a bite to eat. You have admire the view from here across to Grimspound and Hameldown Tor both in touching distance, but left for another day as Abbie's legs tire. Whilst on the Tor, Abbie searched and successfully found a Geocache we signed the log then headed north towards Shapley Tor. We were within 300 metres of the tor when we decided turn for the car. A good day out and we rewarded ourselves with an ice cream on the way home.

The Beginning - Blackingstone Rock and Heltor Rock - 29th July 2010

2010-07-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

So this is my attempt to visit all of Dartmoors Tors and Hilltops as listed in "Walking the Tors and Hilltops of Dartmoor" by A.D. Johnson, he created a list of 190 points within the National Park Boundary as based on the OS Landranger 1:25000 Map. Now I have visited a large number before, in my 20+ years of wondering the moors, only last weekend I was taking part in Endurance Life's Dartmoor Mountain Marathon and visited 12 Tors, but I will be wiping the slate clean and starting afresh. It is my intention to run, bike and walk to all of these in the next 12 - 18 months.

I have already found a number of addittions to the list and would welcome any others that people know about, even if they are on other maps or documents. Send me a name and grid reference and I will add it to the list.

and so it starts........

Blackingstone Rock

I wanted to start off with somewhere I hadn't been before (and actually hadn't heard of) and somewhere accessable to my daughter Abbie aged 4. So we set out to Blackingstone Rock. I wondered if this was a good idea as we drove down the narrow lanes, Abbie not being the best of in car navigators. But we eventually got there and were not be dissappointed. Blackingstone Rock is an impressive piece of granite and is an easy walk of nearby parking.

The walk up had obviously just been cut, so it was easy stroll to the base of the rocks. When we reached there we saw the steps up the east side of the tor which would lead us to the top.

Steps to the Summit

From the summit there were great views over to Hay Tor in the west and Heltor Rocks our next target to the East.

After a stop we returned to the car and made the short journey to the bottom of the path to Heltor Rock.

Heltor Rock

This path wasn't in such great shape and so I put Abbie on my shoulders so she could avoid, most the undergrowth that had filled the path. We made the summit with little trouble apart from a few cuts to my legs. Again the views were stunning, unfortunatly we didn't have as much time as we would have liked, having to return home for an appointment. But two tors which were well worth the visit, lets hope this is an omen for all the new places I will visit during this journey.