East Okement Valley, Okehampton, Dartmoor National Park

East Okement Valley, Okehampton, Dartmoor National Park

The East Okement River rises by the army ring road on Okement Hill high on Dartmoor's north plateau. It flows north over Deep Ford and Henry's Ford to the popular crossing point Cullever Steps. Beyond a wild swimming pool, below Scarey Tor, the river cuts the beautiful East Okement Valley that runs all the way down to the outskirts of Okehampton. The valley here is packed with features and things to do.

The Tarka Trail crosses a footbridge at Chapel Ford in the upper section of the valley before running along the west bank to the A30 bridge and then on to Okehampton.

The upper west slopes near the footbridge at Chapel Ford are usually covered with bluebells in Spring.

A big waterfall cascades on a bend in the river by a series of steps.

West Cleave is the stunning wooded valley in the heart of the East Okement Valley. Note that there are huge, flat slabs of rock about half way up West Cleave that are great for a picnic. There are also pools of water in which to wild swim.

The valley flattens and opens out where Moor Brook flows into the East Okement River. A footbridge spans Moor Brook here. High above to the east is West Cleave Tor (West Cleave Rocks). High above to the west is East Hill Hillfort. It's a magnificent place all year round. A path runs up Moor Brook to Lower Halstock.

East Hill is superb for bluebells in Spring.

The A30 crosses the valley which runs down to Okehampton. The Tarka Trail follows the north bank. The Devonshire Heartland Way follows the south bank.

The river takes you to the centre of town where you'll find the Museum of Dartmoor Life. A little further away is English Heritage's Okehampton Castle.

The East Okement River meets the West Okement River in Okehampton.