Attractions and Places To See around Bridestowe - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bridestowe include historical sites, natural landscapes, and points of interest within Dartmoor National Park. This region in Devon, England, offers access to significant landmarks like ancient castles and prehistoric settlements. Visitors can explore deep woodlands, scenic gorges, and high moorland summits, providing diverse outdoor experiences. The area is characterized by its rugged moorland, river valleys, and historical structures.
Best attractions and places to see around Bridestowe
- The most popular attractions is Yes Tor…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Yes Tor summit
Highlight • Summit
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High Willhays summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Meldon Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Today, the viaduct forms …
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Widgery Cross at Brat Tor
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Lydford Gorge
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
The views from both Great Links and Brat Tor are incredible. On a clear day you can see both the North Coast and South Coast as well as Bodmin Moor. The River Lyd stepping stone crossing is nice but there is still a wooden bridge crossing if you are a little unsteady on your feet.
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So if you're in the area and willing to pay the entrance fee, then you can take a look. If you don't see it, you're not missing much. It's really just a small area that's well worth seeing. But I have to be fair ☝️... ... the circular trail was closed because of a landslide. So we're missing half of the trail. Maybe the other half would have changed our minds. For people who spend a lot of time in nature, it's OK, nothing more. I hope I'm not lynched here now 😬🙈. There's really beautiful nature in Dartmoor and it's free too 😉.
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Warning! Apparently there was a landslide, so the path along the river is closed. You can only get to the waterfall through the National Trust area. Entry fee is £11 per person! It's no longer a quiet place. Children play right by the waterfall, so you can't take any nice photos. It's a real shame! We would have liked to have known this before the hike. Then we definitely wouldn't have done it!!!
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The first impression of this simple but solidly crafted small sacred monument from 1887 is powerful and imposing. The lonely stone cross can be seen from afar thanks to its exposed location. The ancient, venerable cross is a natural part of this environment and one could almost think that it is literally growing out of the rock from which it rises to a proud height.
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The ever so slightly smaller summit of High Willhays, Yes Tor feels grander due to the large granite outcrop. Standing beside the triangulation point atop of Yes Tor offers beautiful views in all directions. A must climb if hiking with the Meldon area.
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Highest point of Devon and Southern England at 621m, accesible form various routes within the area. Although not as grand or striking as other Tors in the area such as Yes, Great Links or West Mills it offers beautiful 360 degree views in all directions.
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A beautiful section of route 27 Granite Way where the trail opens up as you pass across the Meldon Viaduct. Views across show the undulating hills of the highest area within Dartmoor National park where High Willhays and Yes Tor are situated.
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High Willhays is the highest point but it’s neighbour yes tor always feels somewhat grander, for a steep descent and climb head down past fordsland ledge into the okemont valley and back up to kitty tor
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and viewpoints can I explore around Bridestowe?
The region offers stunning natural beauty, including the high moorland summits of Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, which provide expansive vistas of North Devon and Cornwall. You can also visit the dramatic Lydford Gorge, known for its deep woodlands and a thundering waterfall. Other natural attractions include Kes Tor and Rock Basin, Roadford Lake, and Burrator Reservoir.
What historical sites can I visit near Bridestowe?
Bridestowe is surrounded by rich history. Explore the ruins of Meldon Viaduct, a historical iron structure now part of the Granite Way cycle path. Other significant sites include Okehampton Castle, once the largest castle in Devon, and Lydford Castle and Saxon Town. You can also find ancient monuments like Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement, Grimspound, and the Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village.
Are there family-friendly activities around Bridestowe?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Meldon Viaduct, part of the well-surfaced Granite Way, is perfect for family cycling with no hills. Roadford Lake offers activity centers and both indoor and outdoor options. The Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton provides an engaging afternoon for all ages, and exploring parts of Lydford Gorge can also be an adventure.
What outdoor activities and trails are available near Bridestowe?
Dartmoor National Park, easily accessible from Bridestowe, offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, cycling, and mountain biking trails. For specific routes, explore the MTB Trails around Bridestowe, Easy hikes around Bridestowe, and Cycling around Bridestowe guides.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails around Bridestowe?
The Meldon Viaduct section of the Granite Way is well-surfaced and offers a flat, accessible path, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. It provides stunning views across the West Okement River.
When is the best time to visit Bridestowe for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling on Dartmoor. However, Dartmoor's rugged beauty can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a unique experience. Always be prepared for changeable weather conditions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Bridestowe?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning vistas from summits like Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit. The historical significance of sites like Widgery Cross at Brat Tor and the unique experience of Lydford Gorge are also highly rated. The accessibility and scenic beauty of the Meldon Viaduct and the Granite Way are popular among families and cyclists.
Are there dog-friendly walks around Bridestowe?
Many areas within Dartmoor National Park are dog-friendly, offering vast spaces for walks. While specific attractions like Lydford Gorge (National Trust) may have specific rules or entry fees for dogs, generally, the open moorland and many trails are welcoming. Always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock, and follow the Countryside Code.
Where can I go cycling around Bridestowe?
The Meldon Viaduct is a key part of the Granite Way, a long-distance cycle path in Dartmoor that is well-suited for all abilities. You can find more cycling options, including routes of varying difficulty, in the Cycling around Bridestowe guide.
Can I visit any gorges or waterfalls near Bridestowe?
Yes, Lydford Gorge is a must-visit natural feature. It is the deepest gorge in the South West and boasts a spectacular 100-foot waterfall. Please note that it is managed by the National Trust and has opening times and entry fees. You can find more information at nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge.
What are some unique historical landmarks like crosses or ancient settlements in the area?
Beyond castles, Bridestowe offers unique historical landmarks such as Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, the tallest cross on Dartmoor, erected in 1887. You can also explore the Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement, showcasing a Bronze Age settlement, and Grimspound, a well-known late Bronze Age settlement with remains of stone houses.
Most popular attractions around Bridestowe
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