The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Throwleigh

Around Throwleigh, you'll find distinctive granite tors and hills within Dartmoor National Park. Key spots include Cosdon Hill (Cosdon Beacon), known for its panoramic views and prehistoric sites; Shilstone Tor, offering magnificent views and proximity to ancient stone rows; and Kennon Hill, which provides extensive vistas and is part of a Premier Archaeological Landscape. Other significant tors include Kes Tor, often part of popular hiking routes, and Buttern Hill, notable for its archaeological features like hut circles and a stone circle.

For breathtaking panoramic views, Cosdon Hill (Cosdon Beacon) is a top choice, allowing you to see Exmoor National Park to the north and even the highest points of Dartmoor, Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, to the west on a clear day. Widgery Cross at Brat Tor also offers expansive vistas, as does Shilstone Tor, from where you can see Castle Drogo and the Teign Gorge.

Yes, the peaks around Throwleigh are rich in history and archaeology. Cosdon Hill features important prehistoric sites like Cosdon Stone Row. Kennon Hill is part of Throwleigh Common, recognized as a Premier Archaeological Landscape with well-preserved prehistoric remains. Buttern Hill is significant for its archaeological features, including hut circles, cairns, and a chambered cairn, as well as the Buttern Hill Stone Circle. Additionally, Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is a notable historical monument erected in 1887.

The highest point on Dartmoor, and in southern England, is High Willhays summit. Nearby, Yes Tor summit is the second highest point. Both offer extensive vistas and are accessible for hiking, though it's important to check for military firing times as they are close to a military range.

Many of the walks to the tors and hills around Throwleigh can be adapted for families, especially those with older children. While specific 'family_friendly' tags aren't always present for individual tors, the general area offers a mix of open moorland and riverside paths. For easier hikes, consider routes like the 'Walla Brook Clapper Bridge – Kes Tor and Rock Basin loop from Gidleigh' or the 'Meldon Hill Summit loop from Chagford', which are listed as easy hikes in the area. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Throwleigh guide.

Beyond hiking to the tors, the Throwleigh area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Walla Brook Clapper Bridge – Kes Tor and Rock Basin loop' or more challenging routes like the 'Cosdon Beacon – South Zeal Church loop'. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Dartmoor Way Cycle Route' passing through the region. For runners, there are trails such as the 'Fingle Bridge – River Teign Path loop'. You can find detailed routes in the Easy hikes around Throwleigh, Road Cycling Routes around Throwleigh, and Running Trails around Throwleigh guides.

The best time to visit the peaks around Throwleigh for hiking is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the moorland is vibrant. Clear days offer the best panoramic views. Winter conditions can be challenging, with colder temperatures, potential for snow, and reduced visibility, requiring appropriate gear and experience.

Yes, if you're looking for a quieter spot, Hookney Tor is often less crowded than some other tors and offers far-reaching views, making it a great choice for a peaceful picnic or a moment of reflection. Similarly, Hunter’s Tor, while smaller, provides equally stunning views over the Teign Gorge but is visited by fewer people than its more famous neighbour, Sharp Tor.

Shilstone Tor is conveniently located above a narrow moorland road and offers parking for a few vehicles directly nearby. This makes it a good starting point for exploring Throwleigh Common and the higher ground of Cosdon Hill.

Dartmoor National Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially during lambing season (spring) and when livestock are present. On open moorland, dogs should be kept on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds and livestock. Always follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your dog.

While Throwleigh itself is a small village, there are options for refreshments in nearby towns and villages. Chagford, for example, offers cafes and pubs. When planning your hike, consider routes that pass through or end near these villages to enjoy a well-deserved break and a meal or drink.

The moorland environment around Throwleigh's peaks is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot Dartmoor ponies, sheep, and various bird species, including ground-nesting birds like skylarks and curlews. The area around Kennon Hill is also noted for its rich butterfly population. Keep an eye out for birds of prey soaring overhead and listen for the distinct calls of moorland birds.