The 16 Most Amazing Peaks around Bratton Clovelly

The highest point near Bratton Clovelly, and indeed in Devon and Southern England, is High Willhays summit, standing at 621 meters (2,037 feet). Very close by is Yes Tor summit, the second highest at 619 meters (2,031 feet). Both offer extensive panoramic views across Dartmoor and beyond.

Yes, Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is a significant historical landmark. This impressive cross was erected in 1887 by William Widgery to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. Made from 10 courses of granite blocks, it is the tallest cross on Dartmoor, visible from afar due to its exposed location and offering wonderful views.

The tors around Bratton Clovelly, being part of Dartmoor National Park, offer diverse and expansive views. From High Willhays summit, you get 360-degree views. Yes Tor summit provides beautiful vistas across North Devon and Cornwall. Sourton Tors offers impressive views, particularly to the west and Cornwall, as well as into Dartmoor itself, with sights of Great Links Tor and Yes Tor.

Many of the tors offer accessible routes. For example, Yes Tor summit is described as very accessible and an easy hike for most people, especially with parking nearby. The walk to Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is approximately 40 minutes from a nearby car park, making it a manageable option for families seeking a rewarding view and historical interest.

Parts of Dartmoor, including the areas around High Willhays summit and Yes Tor summit, are used as military firing ranges. It is crucial to check firing times before your visit to ensure safety and access. You can typically find this information on the Dartmoor firing notice website, such as dartmoor-ranges.co.uk. Sourton Tors, however, is not within the military firing range.

Beyond hiking the peaks, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, such as those found in the Running Trails around Bratton Clovelly guide. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes, including those in the Road Cycling Routes around Bratton Clovelly guide, and mountain biking trails detailed in the MTB Trails around Bratton Clovelly guide.

While Dartmoor can be enjoyed year-round, spring and summer often provide the most pleasant conditions for hiking, with clearer skies and milder temperatures, enhancing the panoramic views. However, the weather on the tors can change quickly, so always be prepared for varying conditions regardless of the season.

Sourton Tors is particularly known for its impressive jumbles of granite rocks, scattered over a wide area. One outcrop is even said to resemble a 'crooked nose witch.' West Mill Tor also features distinctive granite formations that almost look like castle ruins.

Visitors frequently highlight the stunning, extensive views from the summits, the raw and rugged beauty of Dartmoor, and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the highest points. The historical significance of landmarks like Widgery Cross at Brat Tor also adds to the appeal, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

When hiking to High Willhays summit and Yes Tor summit, always start well-equipped, as conditions on Dartmoor can change rapidly. Remember to check for military firing times in advance, as these areas are close to active ranges. Combining the walk to High Willhays with Yes Tor is a popular option, often as part of a loop from Meldon Dam.

Yes, for several tors, parking is available relatively close by. For instance, there is parking near Yes Tor summit, making it an easy climb. For Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, a free car park is available not far from the base of the Tor, accessible via a track alongside the Dartmoor Inn on the A386.