Ivy Tor, Belstone, Dartmoor National Park

Ivy Tor, Belstone, Dartmoor National Park

In winter, if you stand on Belstone Great Green and look east along the gorgeous Belstone Cleave, you'll see a rocky outcrop jutting out of the trees on the right hand side, or southern wall, of the wooded valley. This is Ivy Tor. It rises from the south bank of the River Taw next to a steep moorland stream called Ivy Tor Water. Ivy Tor is reminiscent of the many other rocky outcrops that line Dartmoor National Park's gorges, cleaves and wooded valleys.

You can walk to Ivy Tor from Belstone and Sticklepath. We've also clambered down the north flank of Cosdon Hill to approach the tor from behind but the descent is steep. If we had to recommend one route, we'd go from Belstone. If you're coming by car, leave it in the car parking area at the entrance to the village. Head through Belstone and out on to Belstone Great Green. From there, follow the track down towards the River Taw at the west end of Belsotne Cleave. Cross the wooden footbridge. A very obvious path takes you into the cleave. Follow the path next to the river until you come to Ivy Tor. Note that it's much easier to see the rocky outcrop in winter.