Top 20 Natural Monuments in West Devon

West Devon offers numerous natural monuments popular with hikers. Yes Tor summit is the second highest point in Dartmoor National Park, providing stunning vistas of North Devon and Cornwall. Another favorite is High Willhays summit, the highest point on Dartmoor, offering expansive views. Both are considered accessible hikes for most people.

Yes, several natural monuments in West Devon are suitable for families. Bellever Tor is a great option, with wide paths that can accommodate pushchairs to its base, and fun rock formations for children to explore. Postbridge Clapper Bridge is also family-friendly, offering a picturesque spot by the river and serving as a starting point for gentle walks.

West Devon is rich in diverse natural features. You'll find distinctive granite tors like Bellever Tor and Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge), ancient woodlands such as the 'fairytale' Wistman's Wood with its moss-covered trees, and dramatic river valleys like Lydford Gorge, home to the 30-foot Whitelady Waterfall. The region also features iconic clapper bridges, ancient examples of engineering spanning rivers.

West Devon's natural monuments often have historical significance. The Postbridge Clapper Bridge is a medieval structure spanning the East Dart River. Another notable historical landmark is Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, an impressive granite cross erected in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, offering wonderful views from its elevated position.

Near the natural monuments in West Devon, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For mountain biking, consider routes like the 'Granite & Gears: Princetown and Burrator Loop' or the 'Merrivale Range, Bellever Forest & Yelverton loop from Tavistock'. Gravel biking options include the 'South Hessary Tor – Burrator Reservoir and Dam loop from Princetown'. For mountain hikes, explore trails such as the 'Yes Tor summit – High Willhays summit loop from Meldon Viaduct'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the MTB Trails in West Devon, Gravel biking in West Devon, and Mountain Hikes in West Devon guides.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Bellever Tor, where on a clear day you might even see both the North and South Coasts. Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge) also offers exceptional views of the Teign Gorge, Castle Drogo, and Dartmoor's high north plateau once you've ascended its crags.

The best time to visit West Devon's natural monuments largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring, with wildflowers blooming and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in wooded areas like Wistman's Wood. While winter can be challenging due to weather, it offers a stark, dramatic beauty to the moorland and tors, though checking military firing times for areas like Yes Tor is crucial year-round.

While popular spots can get busy, exploring areas slightly off the main trails can lead to quieter experiences. For example, while Hunter’s Tor offers great views, it might be less frequented than some of the higher, more prominent tors. Exploring the wider Dartmoor National Park away from specific hotspots can also lead to more secluded natural discoveries.

When hiking in West Devon, especially on Dartmoor, it's essential to be prepared for changeable weather. Layers are key, including waterproof and windproof outer shells. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are recommended due to uneven terrain, especially around tors and in ancient woodlands like Wistman's Wood. Always carry navigation tools, sufficient water, and snacks.

Many natural monuments in West Devon have nearby amenities. For instance, Postbridge Clapper Bridge has parking and a small shop. Lydford Gorge, managed by the National Trust, typically has visitor facilities. For other locations, parking is often available in designated car parks, though some may require a donation. Villages and towns surrounding Dartmoor National Park offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation.

Wistman's Wood is unique due to its ancient dwarf oak trees, which are gnarled and covered in thick moss, creating an otherworldly, 'fairytale' atmosphere. It's a remnant of ancient forests that once covered Dartmoor, growing amidst jumbled granite boulders. Its distinctive appearance and ecological significance make it a truly special place to visit.

Many areas within Dartmoor National Park, including trails around natural monuments, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. Burrator Reservoir and Forest, for example, offers marked trails and a fenced dog exercise area. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, particularly during bird nesting seasons or near sensitive wildlife habitats.

Clapper bridges like the Postbridge Clapper Bridge and those found at Dartmeet are significant examples of ancient engineering. These bridges, constructed from large, flat granite slabs laid across stone piers, have spanned Dartmoor's rivers for centuries, serving as vital crossing points. They offer a glimpse into the region's historical infrastructure and are picturesque natural monuments in their own right.