Attractions and Places To See around Hittisleigh - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hittisleigh include a mix of historical landmarks and natural features. This rural parish in Mid Devon is situated near Dartmoor National Park, providing access to various outdoor points of interest. The area offers opportunities to explore ancient sites, scenic viewpoints, and river crossings.
Best attractions and places to see around Hittisleigh
- The most popular attractions is Fingle Bridge, a viewpoint that is a 17th-century stone bridge over the River Dart. It serves as a gateway to Teign Gorge and is a popular beauty spot.
- Another must-see spot is Kes Tor and Rock Basin, a natural monument and viewpoint. This distinctive rock features a large rock pool at its summit, formed by natural weathering.
- Visitors also love Scorhill Stone Circle, a historical site and man-made monument. It is one of Dartmoor's stone circles, featuring 23 standing granite stones and 11 fallen ones.
- Hittisleigh is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and viewpoints. The area offers a variety of places to explore, from ancient stone circles to scenic river crossings and tors.
- The attractions around Hittisleigh are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 100 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Fingle Bridge
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Hunter’s Tor
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Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge)
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Kes Tor and Rock Basin
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More info here:
visitdartmoor.co.uk/things-to-do/moors-tors/kes-tor
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Scorhill Stone Circle
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It has good views across Gidleigh Common to the higher northern tors of Dartmoor. It is said that the sun sets on Midsummer Eve over the point of one of the standing stones showing some purpose in ancient astrology.
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Tips from the Community
Hunters Tor on Dartmoor – overview and practical guide Notes on the feature Name variants: Hunters Tor (also found in some guides as “Hunters’ Tor” or “Hunters Tor” with occasional apostrophe usage). It is one of the granite tors you’ll encounter on the eastern Dartmoor plateau. Location context: Situated on the eastern Dartmoor moor, in the general area between Widecombe-in-the-Moor and the higher moorland to the north and east. It’s often visited as part of longer routes from classic eastern Dartmoor starting points. What to expect Elevation and geology: A granite tor typical of Dartmoor—weathered outcrops with rough boulder features and exposed granite. Provides a vantage point to survey surrounding moorland. Scenery: Wide moorland views with horizon lines; potential for good visibility across East Dartmoor on clear days. Getting there Access points: Likely starting points include car parks and laybys near the eastern moor, with access from roads serving Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Ashburton, or Two Bridges. Public transport: Buses to nearby villages with a short walk onto the moor; check current timetables. Parking: Local parking areas around the eastern moorland; follow local signage and
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Sharp Tor on Dartmoor – overview and tips Notes on the name Sharp Tor is a well-known tor on Dartmoor, sometimes spelled “Sharp Tor” or “Sharp’s Tor” in regional references. It is one of the classic granite tors that dot the eastern moor. Location context: Sharp Tor sits in the eastern part of Dartmoor National Park, behind or near the villages of Widecombe-in-the-Moor and intersecting with other moorland features such as Haytor and Hound Tor in the wider area. What to expect Elevation and geology: Granite tor forming a rocky outcrop that offers elevated views over the surrounding moor. Typical Dartmoor granite features, weathered by wind and rain into distinctive boulders and crags. Scenery: Expansive moorland around, open horizons, and, on clear days, distant views toward the coast. Getting there Access points: - Likely starting points include nearby car parks on the eastern Dartmoor plateau and routes from towns like Ashburton or Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Public transport: Bus routes to nearby villages with a short walk onto the moor. Parking: Depending on the exact access point, there are local parking areas; check current signage and National Trust/ Dartmoor NPA guidance. Popular routes and what to expect Short circulars: There are moorland circuits that incorporate Sharp Tor as a highlight, often around 2–4 miles (3–6 km) depending on the exact start point. Longer explorations: Combine Sharp Tor with adjacent tors such as Hound Tor, Widecombe area, or more northern tors for a full moorland day. Expect rolling moorland
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The Bronze Age stone circle of Scorhill is located southwest of Gidleigh, above and not far from the North Teign (river) near the confluence of its tributary the Wallabrook. It is considered to be by far the finest example of its kind in Devonshire and is the only one of the stone circles on Dartmoor in England that has not been restored. (Wikipedia)
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It is a distinctive rock, not only for its magnificent views, but also for its huge rock pool at the summit, formed by the weathering of weakened feldspar crystals. Before geological processes were fully understood, rock pools were described in folklore as the work of the Druids, who needed a camp as close to the sky as possible to "store sacred water and collect the blood of human sacrifices". More info here: https://visitdartmoor.co.uk/things-to-do/moors-tors/kes-tor/
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Near Fingle Bridge, if the need arises, there is also a very convenient public toilet.
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Very nice bridge. Nice excursion restaurant. Good starting point for walks or hikes along the romantic Teign.
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Fingle Bridge is a 17th-century stone bridge over the River Teign. It's a useful crossing point linking some of the enjoyable gravel riverside trails in the area. The riverside paths on both sides of the river make great running loops. The Fingle Bridge hotel is also a good pit stop, set in idyllic surroundings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and viewpoints can I explore near Hittisleigh?
The area around Hittisleigh, particularly near Dartmoor National Park, offers several stunning natural features and viewpoints. You can visit Fingle Bridge, a scenic 17th-century stone bridge over the River Dart, which serves as a gateway to Teign Gorge. Other notable spots include Kes Tor and Rock Basin, known for its distinctive rock pool at the summit, and Hunter’s Tor and Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge), both offering breathtaking views of the Teign Gorge and surrounding Dartmoor landscape.
Are there historical sites or ancient monuments to visit around Hittisleigh?
Yes, the region is rich in history. Directly in Hittisleigh, you can find the Grade I listed St Andrew's Church, with parts dating back to the 14th century, and The Mill, a historic site on Mill Lane. Nearby, on Dartmoor, you can explore Scorhill Stone Circle, one of the most impressive Bronze Age stone circles. Further afield, but within a short drive, are sites like Okehampton Castle, Grimspound (a Bronze Age settlement), and Hound Tor Deserted Medieval Village.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Hittisleigh?
Hittisleigh's proximity to Dartmoor National Park makes it ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and gravel biking. For example, there are cycling routes like the 'Fingle Bridge – Clifford Bridge loop' and running trails such as the 'Teign Gorge and Castle Drogo loop from Fingle Bridge'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Cycling around Hittisleigh, Running Trails around Hittisleigh, and Gravel biking around Hittisleigh.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Hittisleigh?
Many of the natural attractions and walking areas around Hittisleigh are suitable for families. Fingle Bridge is a popular beauty spot with facilities, offering easy access to riverside trails that are enjoyable for all ages. Exploring the historical sites like St Andrew's Church or the nearby Okehampton Castle can also be an engaging family outing.
Can I find dog-friendly walking trails near Hittisleigh?
Yes, the rural nature of Hittisleigh and its surrounding Dartmoor landscape means there are many dog-friendly walking opportunities. Areas around Fingle Bridge and the various tors like Hunter’s Tor and Sharp Tor are generally welcoming to dogs, though it's always advisable to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons.
What are some easy walking trails suitable for beginners near Hittisleigh?
For easy walks, the trails around Fingle Bridge are highly recommended. These riverside paths offer gentle terrain and beautiful scenery. Many of the routes listed in the Cycling around Hittisleigh guide, particularly those marked 'easy', can also be adapted for pleasant walks.
What is the best time of year to visit Hittisleigh for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities around Hittisleigh, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn (October-November) can also be beautiful, especially in areas like Teign Gorge, with vibrant foliage. While some winter walks are possible, conditions can be more challenging due to colder weather and shorter days.
Are there any notable historical landmarks directly within Hittisleigh parish?
Within Hittisleigh parish itself, the most notable historical landmark is St Andrew's Church. This Grade I listed church features a nave and chancel from the 14th century and a 15th-century granite aisle, along with a unique early Norman font. It has been a community cornerstone for over 750 years. Additionally, The Mill, located on Mill Lane, is another historic site listed on the National Heritage List for England.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the attractions around Hittisleigh?
Near Fingle Bridge, you'll find the Fingle Bridge Inn, which is a popular spot for refreshments and meals, especially after exploring the Teign Gorge. For other options, nearby villages like Drewsteignton or Cheriton Bishop will offer local pubs and cafes.
What are some longer or more challenging hiking routes in the area?
For more challenging hikes, consider routes that incorporate multiple tors on Dartmoor. The 'Fingle Bridge – Hunter’s Tor loop' is a difficult running trail that can be adapted for a longer hike. Exploring the areas around Hunter’s Tor, Sharp Tor (Teign Gorge), and Kes Tor and Rock Basin often involves varied terrain and significant elevation changes, providing a good challenge for experienced hikers.
What is the significance of Hittisleigh in maritime history?
Hittisleigh holds a unique place in maritime history as the birthplace of Samuel Bellamy, an 18th-century pirate often known as 'Black Sam' Bellamy. He became one of the wealthiest pirates of his time before his ship, the Whydah Gally, sank.
Are there any prehistoric sites near Hittisleigh?
Yes, the Dartmoor area near Hittisleigh is home to several significant prehistoric sites. Scorhill Stone Circle is a prominent Bronze Age monument. Further afield, Grimspound is a well-known late Bronze Age settlement, and Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement showcases a complex of Bronze Age ritual sites, considered among the finest on Dartmoor.
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