Belstone Cleave Bridge over the River Taw
Belstone Cleave Bridge over the River Taw
Highlight • River
Hiking
4.9
(39)
Running
5.0
(1)
Belstone Cleave Bridge is a picturesque wooden footbridge spanning the River Taw, nestled within the vibrant woodland of Belstone Cleave in Dartmoor National Park, Devon, England. Situated at an elevation of approximately 289 metres, this charming bridge serves as a vital link for walkers exploring the area between the villages of Belstone and Sticklepath. It is a key feature along the River Taw, which originates high on Dartmoor and flows for 45 miles through North Devon to the Bristol Channel.
…This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 21, 2021
Hiking
Routes here
Best routes to Belstone Cleave Bridge over the River Taw
4.8
(12)
66
hikers
18.1km
05:15
470m
480m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
19
hikers
7.00km
01:59
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(15)
70
hikers
5.74km
01:36
100m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 290 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Tuesday 10 March
11°C
4°C
93 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 34.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Walks around Belstone Cleave Bridge, particularly within Belstone Cleave itself, can feature varied terrain. While generally accessible, paths can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain. The area is categorized as intermediate difficulty, suggesting some uneven ground and potentially moderate ascents/descents. Appropriate footwear is highly recommended.
Parking is typically available in the nearby village of Belstone. This provides a convenient starting point for exploring Belstone Cleave and accessing the bridge. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as spaces can fill up quickly.
While Belstone village is somewhat remote, local bus services might connect to larger towns in the area. However, direct public transport to Belstone Cleave Bridge itself is limited. Planning your journey in advance and checking local bus schedules for routes to Belstone or Sticklepath is recommended.
Yes, many trails around Belstone Cleave Bridge are considered family-friendly, offering pleasant walks through woodland and along the river. However, be aware that some paths can be rocky and muddy, so sturdy footwear is important for all family members. Shorter, easier routes are available for those walking with younger children.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Belstone Cleave Bridge. As this area is within Dartmoor National Park, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds. During lambing season (March-July), dogs should be kept on a lead. Always clean up after your dog.
Winter hiking around Belstone Cleave Bridge offers a unique charm with crisp air and potentially snow-dusted landscapes. However, paths can become very muddy and slippery, and ice may be present. Shorter daylight hours also require careful planning. Always check weather forecasts and wear appropriate warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy boots.
Yes, the nearby village of Belstone offers amenities including a pub, which can be a great spot for refreshments after your walk. The village of Sticklepath, on the other side of the cleave, also has options. It's a good idea to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.
The River Taw and Belstone Cleave are rich in wildlife. Visitors might spot otters and kingfishers along the riverbanks. The woodland also supports various bird species and small mammals. The wider River Taw estuary is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) known for its large population of wading birds.
Yes, Belstone Cleave Bridge is a popular feature in several circular walking routes. Its location linking two trails, including sections of the Tarka Trail and the Land's End Trail, makes it ideal for creating loops of varying lengths and difficulties. Many hikers enjoy starting and ending their walks in Belstone village.
While Belstone Cleave Bridge itself is a picturesque wooden footbridge, the area has historical connections. The River Taw has a rich maritime history, and nearby Finch Foundry in Sticklepath is a 19th-century forge powered by water wheels, demonstrating the river's industrial role. The region is also immortalized in Henry Williamson's novel Tarka the Otter, with the 'Henry Williamson Bridge' also found in the vicinity.
Belstone Cleave itself offers beautiful wooded views, with the 'infant Taw' rushing through rocky terrain. For wider, more expansive vistas, the higher ground around Belstone village and the nearby Dartmoor tors (such as Belstone Tor) provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding moorland and countryside.