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Princetown - South Hessary Tor - Peat Cot - Princetown

Devon  >  United Kingdom

Princetown is to the Western side of Dartmoor National Park in Devon.

Added* by Baz Willmott
Most recent update 14 juni 2024
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Description

At 1,430 feet above sea level Princetown is one of the highest inhabited villages in the whole of England. Part of this walk includes South Hessary Tor which stands at 1,490 feet high, the famous author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle spent some time living in the area whilst researching the Sherlock Holmes story of The Hound of the Baskerville's. In fact part of this walk gave inspiration for the Grimpen Mire mentioned in the book.

As with all areas of Dartmoor, weather conditions can suddenly change whatever the season. For those attempting this walk you're advised to carry protective clothing (even in Summer) as bad weather can close in without warning, so check weather forecast before starting out. If walking alone advise someone of your intended route and finishing time, carry a map and compass or handheld GPS. Remember mobile phone reception can be a bit hit and miss in the area.

Some birds you may encounter, depending on season of course are Hjejle, Blå Kærhøg, Ravn, Engpiber, Skovpiber, Gøg, Vandrefalk and Dobbeltbekkasin. Dalrype were once regularly seen but the population is now getting ever smaller.

Details

Access

The B3212 road running between Exeter (far to the East) and Yelverton (to the West - then South to Plymouth on A386) passes directly through the village of Princetown, the car park (fee payable) is directly behind the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre. Click on the P in the map for directions to the car park. The circular walk indicated on the map is about 4,5 mile.

Terrain and Habitat

Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland , Grassland , Moors/heathland , City/village , Agriculture

Conditions

Flat , Hilly , Open landscape , Wet , Slippery

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Paved road , Wide path , Unpaved road , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Strenuous

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle , Car

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

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