Dartmoor Forest
Hartland Tor
Dartmoor Forest
Hartland Tor
Highlight • Summit
Hiking
5.0
(36)
Running
5.0
(2)
Hartland Tor is a distinctive granite outcrop, or "tor," nestled within the expansive Dartmoor National Park in England. Rising to an elevation of 409 metres (1,342 feet), this natural monument offers a superb vantage point over the East Dart Valley, making it a notable landmark near Postbridge and Yelverton. It's classified as a spur tor, meaning it emerges from a ridge, contributing to its unique profile within the Dartmoor landscape. The tor is also home to fascinating historical elements, including…
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Tips
April 15, 2019
Hiking
April 27, 2018
Hiking
November 18, 2022
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Hartland Tor
4.4
(5)
31
hikers
21.7km
06:00
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(38)
127
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(24)
121
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 380 m
Weather
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Friday 3 April
11°C
5°C
36 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 46.0 km/h
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The path to Hartland Tor involves navigating minor tracks through gorse and fern from the south. While not overly strenuous, the terrain can be uneven, so appropriate footwear is highly recommended for a comfortable and safe hike.
Hartland Tor is approximately 1.7 km (just over a mile) from Postbridge. A round trip to the summit and back can be completed in less than 3.5 km, making it a relatively short walk. Many hikers combine it with longer routes towards the East Dart Waterfall or Sittaford Tor.
At the summit, you can discover a distinctive, much-weathered 'feather bed' rock formation. On its eastern side, there's a rock cavity known as 'The Devil's Punchbowl'. Historically, the tor features a small Bronze Age holding with an enclosed hut and a memorial rock commemorating William Donaghy, a schoolmaster who died there in 1914.
Yes, Hartland Tor is considered one of the quieter tors on Dartmoor, making it a good place for trail running if you're seeking something off the beaten track. Its proximity to Postbridge allows for shorter runs, or it can be incorporated into longer routes towards the East Dart Waterfall.
From the summit, hikers are rewarded with wide-open views across the East Dart River. You can clearly see Bellever Tor, White Tor, and even more distant landmarks such as Sittaford Tor and the Grey Wethers Stone Circles. The views also encompass the East Dart valley, including glimpses of the river, farmland, open moor, and forest.
Hartland Tor is generally suitable for families, especially given its relatively short distance from Postbridge. The walk is not overly strenuous, and the unique rock formations and historical elements can be engaging for children. However, the uneven terrain through gorse and fern means supervision is advised, and younger children might need assistance.
Yes, as Hartland Tor is easily accessible from Postbridge, there are facilities available there. You can find cafes and pubs in Postbridge, offering options for refreshments and meals before or after your hike.
Hartland Tor is known for being one of the quieter tors on Dartmoor. While easily accessible, it's often visited by those en route to other destinations, meaning it typically feels remote and quiet. This makes it an ideal spot if you're seeking a peaceful escape and solitude.
Public transport to Dartmoor National Park can be limited. While there might be bus services to Postbridge, it's advisable to check current schedules and routes with local transport providers as services can be infrequent, especially outside of peak season.
Given Dartmoor's changeable weather, it's best to dress in layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended, even on seemingly clear days. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential due to the uneven and potentially wet terrain. Always carry extra warm clothing, regardless of the season.
The direct ascent to Hartland Tor from Postbridge is generally considered an easy to moderate walk. However, it can be incorporated into longer, more challenging routes that extend further into Dartmoor, such as those leading to Sittaford Tor or the East Dart Waterfall, which would increase the overall difficulty and duration.