Widgery Cross & Great Links Tor loop — Dartmoor National Park

Embark on the Widgery Cross & Great Links Tor loop, a moderate 6.0 miles (9.7 km) hike through Dartmoor National Park. This route features rugged terrain, including some uphill climbs and descents, with sections that can be tussocky or boggy. You will pass impressive granite tors, such as Brat Tor, home to Widgery Cross, and Great Links Tor, offering expansive views that can reach Cornwall on a clear day. Expect to complete this adventure in about 2 hours and 54 minutes, gaining 959 feet (292 metres) in elevation.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this hike is accessible at any time of year because Great Links Tor lies outside firing range boundaries. While the paths are generally reasonable, be prepared for varied conditions and ensure you have proper footwear. The trail crosses the River Lyd, which might involve a ford or a footbridge depending on water levels. Note that the track leading to the car park can be rough and rutted, so drive carefully.

This loop offers a classic Dartmoor experience, blending natural beauty with historical significance. You will encounter Widgery Cross, a nearly 12-foot 8-inch granite cross erected in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, standing prominently atop Brat Tor. Further along, Great Links Tor, one of Dartmoor's highest points, provides opportunities for scrambling on its impressive granite outcrops. The landscape also reveals remnants of ancient tin mining, giving some areas a unique, almost lunar appearance, particularly south of Great Links Tor.