Watchet Hill, Belstone, Dartmoor National Park
A high number of hills fringe Dartmoor's north moor. Cosdon Hill is the biggest. East Hill is the furthest north. Between them is the superbly located Watchet Hill by the village Belstone.
If you're going to spend time exploring Dartmoor's high ground, it's likely you'll cross Watchet Hill at some point. Sat below the popular Belstone Tors, home to a famous Dartmoor stone circle and connecting two stunning wooded valleys, the views from Watchet Hill across Mid Devon to Exmoor National Park are big. The Tarka Trail also runs across Watchet Hill and many paths and tracks take you into the heart of the north moor.
We've positioned Watchet Hill on Google maps so zoom in on the 'Satellite' setting to see its location.
To access Watchet Hill, it's best to start from the large car parking area at the entrance to the village. Whilst there's limited parking by the moorland gate that opens out onto the northern edge of the hill, you are asked to leave vehicles at the car park by local residents. From this large car park, follow the moorland road through the village. The road splits in three directions near the village pub and church. Take the road that climbs south west to the aforementioned moorland gate. Wander out onto Watchet Hill.
You'll see Belstone Tors (specifically Tors End) rise in front of you beyond an army flagpole. Grass tracks run towards the foot of Belstone Tors. Follow one of these up to the rocky outcrops and beyond to Oke Tor, Steeperton Tor and Hangingstone Hill.
On the south west side of Watchet Hill is the Nine Maidens Stone Circle. Beyond that, an army track drops down to Cullever Steps and the wild swimming spot Cullever Steps Pool.
The Tarka Trail runs around the side of the hill before cutting back on itself to descend into the stunning West Cleave. It crosses the East Okement River on a footbridge by Chapel Ford (and 'Chapel Lands').
Note that this is a good place from which to wander up to Dartmoor's high ground after a good dumping of snow.
Drop into The Tors Inn for food and drink afterwards.
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