The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Mary Tavy

Mary Tavy is an excellent base for exploring Dartmoor's distinctive granite tors. Some prominent ones include Yes Tor summit, the second highest point in Dartmoor, and High Willhays summit, the highest point. Other significant tors mentioned in the region are Brent Tor with its iconic church, Longtimber Tor, Hare Tor, Ger Tor, Pew Tor, Cox Tor, Roos Tor, Staple Tor, and Sourton Tors.

Yes, several tors feature historical landmarks. Most notably, Brent Tor is home to the 13th-century Church of St Michael de Rupe. Additionally, Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is a significant historical site, a granite cross erected in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, and it is the tallest cross on Dartmoor.

The tors around Mary Tavy are characterized by their distinctive granite outcrops and elevated moorland landscapes. You'll find rugged terrain, stunning panoramic views, and areas like Tavy Cleave, a steep-sided valley where the River Tavy cascades through. The region is also known for its unique flora and wildlife, especially in areas like Tavy Cleave.

Hiking difficulty varies. Some routes, like the 4.7 km loop trail along the River Tavy that includes Longtimber Tor, are considered easy and suitable for various fitness levels. Other tors, such as Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, are generally intermediate. Longer routes encompassing multiple tors like Pew Tor, Cox Tor, Roos Tor, and Staple Tor can be more challenging, and areas like Sourton Tors require good navigation skills due to unmarked paths.

Yes, there are options suitable for families. The 4.7 km loop trail along the River Tavy, which includes Longtimber Tor, is an easy and popular choice. While Longaford Tor is rated intermediate, its tips suggest it's a rewarding walk with incredible views, potentially suitable for active families. Always check the specific route details for suitability.

There are numerous hiking trails available. For example, an easy 4.7 km loop via Longtimber Tor along the River Tavy is popular. Other moderate options include a 7.4 km loop around Lydford Gorge and Whitelady Waterfall, or a 14.8 km loop from Peter Tavy to Longtimber Tor. You can find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Mary Tavy guide.

Dartmoor offers beauty year-round, but the best time for hiking the tors is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and days are longer. However, weather on Dartmoor can change rapidly, so it's essential to be prepared for various conditions regardless of the season. Clear days offer the most expansive views.

Proper hiking footwear is essential due to the varied terrain, which can include gentle paths, steeper ascents, and sometimes boggy moorland. Given the rapid weather changes on Dartmoor, it's advisable to carry waterproofs, extra layers, and good navigation tools, especially for routes on open moorland where paths may not be marked.

Dedicated car parks are available for popular tors. For instance, Pew Tor has nearby car parks like Pork Hill, which serves as a starting point for hikes. For Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, there's a free car park accessible via a track alongside the Dartmoor Inn on the A386.

While general hiking on Dartmoor does not typically require permits, it's crucial to be aware that some areas, such as parts of the Tavy Cleave walk and Sourton Tors, are within Dartmoor Firing Ranges. It is advisable to check access times before visiting these specific areas to ensure safety.

Visitors frequently highlight the incredible, far-reaching views from the granite outcrops, especially on clear days. The sense of raw and rugged Dartmoor, the historical significance of sites like Brent Tor and Widgery Cross, and the diverse walking opportunities are also highly appreciated. Many find the experience of 'bagging' several tors in one route particularly rewarding.

Yes, many routes are designed to encompass multiple tors. For example, a rewarding experience involves a walk encompassing Barn Hill, Cox Tor, Roos Tor, and Staple Tor. A circular walk through Tavy Cleave also leads past impressive tors like Hare Tor and Ger Tor, offering spectacular views.