Great Staple Tor - Image 1
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Great Staple Tor

4.9
·27 reviews·, United Kingdom

Experience the wild heart of Dartmoor at Great Staple Tor, offering vast, peaceful vistas and an adventurous open moorland walk.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Great Staple Tor - Image 1

Great Staple Tor

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the wild heart of Dartmoor at Great Staple Tor, offering vast, peaceful vistas and an adventurous open moorland walk.

4.9
(27 reviews)

"Beautiful short easy walk all the way from car park to little staple tor then great staple tor and beyond."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Moorland terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on your Dartmoor adventure.

🗺️ Navigate with Care

Paths are minimal. Consider a map and compass or GPS for navigation, especially if venturing off the main routes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Dartmoor Vistas

Panoramic Dartmoor Vistas

Summit of Great Staple Tor

Soak in breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the vast Dartmoor National Park. Perfect for a quiet moment.

The Three Tor Circuit

The Three Tor Circuit

Connecting Great Staple, Cox, and Roos Tors

Embark on a rewarding walk linking these iconic tors, offering varied terrain and stunning scenery.

Picnic with a View

Picnic with a View

Sheltered spots near the summit

Find a cozy nook to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene beauty of the moorland.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Moorland Adventure

Great Staple Tor is part of Dartmoor's wild landscape. Expect open moorland with few defined paths, making it an adventure, especially for families. Pack sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather.

Strategic Parking and Access

Accessing Great Staple Tor is often via car parks like Pork Hill or Merrivale. From there, it's a relatively short walk across open terrain. Plan your route to combine it with nearby tors for a fuller experience.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Popular for family adventures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A 50km Wildcamping & Backpacking adventure across Dartmoor National Park! For anyone who’s never been wild camping at Dartmoor National Park, I highly encourage you to get it planned…. I just completed this stunning 50km circular route in a weekend from Friday evening to Sunday evening and honestly it was an experience of a lifetime. The trip I did here was as followed along with some hopefully ...
@tomproutt
68.5K likes • 537.2K views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Moorland terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on your Dartmoor adventure. Reddit

🗺️ Navigate with Care

Paths are minimal. Consider a map and compass or GPS for navigation, especially if venturing off the main routes. Reddit

You must visit Dartmoor! #dartmoor #nationalpark #Outdoors #adventure
@shewalksinengland
7.5K likes • 106.3K views
Located in Dartmoor National Park, and one of the most unique places i have visited in the UK, this is Foggintor Quarry. You can get here by following the old railway track from Princetown, or a short 1 mile walk from the main road. I have a guide for both routes on my website in my bio. #bestplacestovisit #dartmoornationalpark
@shewalksinengland
2.1K likes • 83.9K views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Limited facilities on the moor. Enjoy the views with a packed lunch and snacks. Reddit

☀️ Check the Weather

Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain, even on the same day. TikTok

Turning our attention to southern England, and to round off Discover National Parks Fortnight 2023, here's our first batch of patches celebrating some of the tors, towns and trails of Dartmoor National Park 🙌 The ten tors challenge was my introduction to Dartmoor and it's unique landscape of tors and rocky outcrops 20 years ago, which left a real impression on me. I've really enjoyed designing the...
@adventurepatch
1.5K likes • 15.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Moorland terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking boots for comfort and safety on your Dartmoor adventure. Reddit

🗺️ Navigate with Care

Paths are minimal. Consider a map and compass or GPS for navigation, especially if venturing off the main routes. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Limited facilities on the moor. Enjoy the views with a packed lunch and snacks. Reddit

☀️ Check the Weather

Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain, even on the same day. TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Exploration

Children love jumping rocks! It's an adventure for them, but keep a close eye on them. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(27 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Great Staple Tor for its stunning, peaceful, and expansive Dartmoor views. It's highlighted as an accessible yet adventurous spot, perfect for picnics and short walks, especially when combined with nearby tors. Some note the lack of defined paths as part of its wild charm, though it requires careful navigation.

"Stopped off here for lunch while doing the round trip between Cox, Roos and Staple Tors. Beautiful views from the top, and found a nice sheltered spot for a picnic. Easily ascended across wide open moorland, there aren't many paths so it's a bit more of an adventure especially for our children who loved jumping over the rocks and grassy knolls."

Giles Moss

"30 min walk from Merrivale car park, open moorland that's not too challenging, great starting place if your looking to do the three Tor circuit."

Richard Aldcroft

"Beautiful short easy walk all the way from car park to little staple tor then great staple tor and beyond."

Harris Wain

What People Like

Breathtaking panoramic views
Peace and quiet
Accessible adventure

What People Dislike

Undefined paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Great Staple Tor is best accessed by car. Popular starting points include Merrivale car park or Pork Hill car park, both offering relatively short walks to the tor. Reddit These car parks are situated on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, making them convenient for day-trippers. TikTok

Public transport options directly to Great Staple Tor are very limited. Buses may run to nearby Princetown, but from there, you'd likely need to walk or arrange a taxi. TikTok It's generally recommended to have a car for exploring Dartmoor's tors. TikTok

Merrivale car park and Pork Hill car park are both excellent starting points. Merrivale is often cited as being about a 30-minute walk away, while Pork Hill is also in close proximity. Reddit

While you can cycle on some of Dartmoor's tracks, the open moorland around Great Staple Tor is best explored on foot. Some old railway tracks nearby are suitable for cycling. TikTok

Absolutely! Great Staple Tor is perfect for a day trip, especially when combined with nearby tors like Cox and Roos. The walk from the car park is manageable for a few hours of exploration. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Great Staple Tor and the surrounding Dartmoor National Park are free to access. There are no entrance fees. TikTok

Great Staple Tor is an open natural landscape and has no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment. TikTok

There isn't a dedicated visitor center directly at Great Staple Tor. The nearest visitor information can often be found in towns like Princetown. TikTok

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of the natural environment. Stick to paths where they exist and take all litter with you. TikTok

Wild camping is permitted in certain areas of Dartmoor with specific guidelines. It's best to check the Dartmoor National Park Authority's website for current regulations and designated areas. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The terrain is open moorland with grassy knolls and rocky outcrops. There are few defined paths, so expect uneven ground and some scrambling over rocks. Reddit

The walk from the car park is generally considered short and not too challenging, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The 'challenge' comes from navigating the open moorland. Reddit

You'll be rewarded with stunning, wide-open views across Dartmoor National Park. It's a place of total peace and quiet with a real sense of wilderness. Reddit

There are no facilities directly at Great Staple Tor. You'll need to use facilities in nearby towns like Princetown or pack everything you need. TikTok

Yes, the dramatic tors and expansive landscapes make it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no dining establishments directly at Great Staple Tor. It's a natural landscape, so plan to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

The nearest options for food are in Princetown, which has pubs and cafes. You can also find eateries in nearby villages. TikTok

Absolutely! It's an ideal spot for a picnic. Many visitors find sheltered spots to enjoy their meals while taking in the views. Reddit

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. Consider items that are easy to eat on the go and won't spoil in varying temperatures. Reddit

While not directly at the tor, pubs in Princetown often offer traditional pub fare and can be a good stop before or after your visit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light, casting long shadows and golden hues across the moorland. TikTok Overcast days can also provide soft, diffused light perfect for capturing the textures of the landscape. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the tors or distant landscapes. Instagram Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. TikTok

The summit of Great Staple Tor itself offers the best panoramic views. Exploring the surrounding tors like Cox and Roos also provides unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

The weather can be a significant factor, with wind and rain potentially affecting your shoot. Navigation on the open moor can also be tricky, so ensure you're prepared. TikTok

Drone usage in Dartmoor National Park is subject to regulations. Always check the official Dartmoor National Park Authority guidelines and obtain any necessary permissions before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Great Staple Tor is a fantastic destination for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The open moorland and rocky outcrops provide a natural playground for children, who often love jumping over rocks and exploring. Reddit The walk from car parks like Merrivale is relatively short and not too strenuous, making it manageable for younger legs. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:
* Pack plenty of snacks and drinks: Facilities are scarce, so come prepared. Reddit
* Wear sturdy shoes: The terrain is uneven, so good walking boots are essential for everyone. Reddit
* Keep a close eye on children: The open moorland means they can wander easily, and the rocks can be slippery. Reddit
* Embrace the adventure: Let them enjoy the freedom of exploring the wild landscape. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Adventurers

For solo hikers, Great Staple Tor offers a perfect opportunity for peaceful contemplation and a genuine connection with nature. The sense of solitude and the vast, uninterrupted views provide a profound sense of escape. Reddit The lack of defined paths encourages a more mindful approach to walking and navigation, adding to the sense of accomplishment. Reddit

Tips for solo visitors:
* Prioritize safety: Always inform someone of your route and expected return time. TikTok
* Master navigation: Carry a map, compass, or GPS device, as visibility can change quickly. TikTok
* Be prepared for all weather: Dartmoor's climate is unpredictable; pack layers and waterproofs. TikTok
* Enjoy the quiet: Embrace the opportunity for introspection and to simply be present in the wild landscape. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Great Staple Tor is a dream location for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes and atmospheric shots. The granite tors, rolling moorland, and expansive skies offer endless creative possibilities. TikTok The best light is often found during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the landscape is bathed in warm, soft light and shadows create depth. Instagram

Photography tips:
* Wide-angle lens: Essential for capturing the sweeping panoramas. Instagram
* Tripod: Crucial for low-light conditions and sharp images, especially during dawn/dusk. TikTok
* Look for textures: The granite formations and heather provide rich textural elements. Instagram
* Consider the weather: Dramatic skies, mist, or even rain can add mood and atmosphere to your shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Dartmoor's Tors

Great Staple Tor is one of many impressive granite outcrops, or 'tors,' that dot the landscape of Dartmoor National Park. These ancient geological formations are a defining feature of the region, shaped by millennia of weathering. Each tor offers a unique perspective and a sense of wildness, inviting exploration and adventure. TikTok Many visitors enjoy creating their own 'tor bagging' challenges, linking several tors together for a longer hike. TikTok

These tors are not just geological wonders; they hold historical and cultural significance, often serving as ancient boundary markers or navigational points. The rugged beauty of Dartmoor, with its tors, bogs, and heather-clad hills, has inspired artists, writers, and adventurers for centuries. TikTok When visiting, remember that the moorland is a sensitive environment, and it's crucial to tread lightly and respect its natural state. TikTok

For those seeking a more structured experience, the 'Ten Tors Challenge' is a famous annual event for young people in the South West of England, which introduces them to the challenges and rewards of navigating Dartmoor's tors. TikTok This highlights the enduring appeal of these rocky sentinels as destinations for both personal challenge and scenic enjoyment.

Navigating the Open Moorland

One of the most distinctive aspects of visiting Great Staple Tor is navigating the open moorland. Unlike many hiking trails with clear paths, Dartmoor often requires a good sense of direction. This can be part of the adventure, as described by visitors who enjoy the feeling of true exploration. Reddit However, it also means being prepared. TikTok

It's highly recommended to carry a map and compass, or a reliable GPS device, especially if you plan to explore beyond the immediate vicinity of the tor. Weather conditions on Dartmoor can change rapidly, and fog can descend quickly, making visibility poor. TikTok This is where having navigation skills becomes crucial for safety. Reddit

For families, the lack of defined paths can be both exciting and a point of caution. Children often enjoy the freedom to roam and jump over rocks, but adult supervision is essential. Reddit Planning your route in advance and informing someone of your intended itinerary is always a wise precaution when venturing into such wild terrain. TikTok

The Appeal of the Three Tor Circuit

A popular way to experience the area around Great Staple Tor is by undertaking the 'Three Tor Circuit,' which typically includes Great Staple Tor, Cox Tor, and Roos Tor. This route offers a fantastic introduction to the varied landscapes of Dartmoor, combining open moorland with rocky outcrops and stunning vistas. Reddit It's a moderately challenging walk that can be completed in a few hours, making it ideal for a day trip. Reddit

Each tor in the circuit has its own character. Great Staple Tor provides expansive views, Cox Tor is known for its distinctive rock formations, and Roos Tor offers a slightly different perspective of the surrounding moor. The journey between them involves traversing open heathland, where you might encounter grazing ponies or sheep. TikTok The lack of clear paths between the tors adds to the sense of adventure, encouraging a more intuitive approach to navigation. Reddit

This circuit is often recommended for its accessibility from nearby car parks like Merrivale, and it's a route that families often enjoy due to the engaging terrain. Reddit It’s a quintessential Dartmoor experience, showcasing the raw beauty and wildness of the national park in a manageable and rewarding walk. TikTok

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