The best walks and hikes around Lands common to Bridestowe and Sourton CP's

There are nearly 300 hiking routes available in the Lands common to Bridestowe and Sourton CP's. These range from easy strolls to more challenging moorland expeditions, offering diverse options for all skill levels.

The hiking trails in this region offer a good mix of difficulties. You'll find over 120 easy routes, ideal for a relaxed walk, alongside 137 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are also 34 difficult routes for experienced hikers looking for strenuous climbs and longer distances.

The trails offer a wealth of natural beauty and landmarks. You can explore prominent granite tors like Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit, the highest points in Devon. Other notable features include the historic Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, the scenic Meldon Reservoir, and the unique Black-a-Tor Copse National Nature Reserve with its rare high-altitude oak woodland.

Yes, the area offers many family-friendly options, particularly among the 120 easy routes. These often follow gentler paths through woodlands or along river valleys, providing accessible and enjoyable experiences for all ages. The Granite Way, a former railway line, is also a good choice for a flatter, scenic walk.

Yes, hiking with dogs is generally possible, but it's crucial to be aware of Dartmoor National Park's guidelines. Dogs should be kept under close control, especially on open moorland where livestock (sheep, cattle, ponies) graze. During bird nesting season (March 1 to July 31), dogs must be kept on a lead on open access land. Always clean up after your dog.

Yes, the region is well-suited for circular walks. Many routes are designed to take you through varied landscapes, often combining sections of farmland, the Granite Way, and moorland, frequently including detours to specific tors or natural reserves. For example, the Widgery Cross & Great Links Tor loop is a popular circular option.

Parking is available at various points around the commons, often near popular trailheads or villages like Bridestowe and Sourton. Specific car parks can be found near major attractions such as Meldon Reservoir or Sourton Tors. Public transport options are more limited, but local bus services connect some of the villages. It's advisable to check local timetables in advance if relying on public transport.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 1000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic Dartmoor tors, the expansive moorland views, and the diverse terrain that offers both challenging climbs and peaceful valley walks. The sense of wildness and the opportunity to explore unique natural features like Black-a-Tor Copse are also highly valued.

While the region is characterized by rivers like the Lew and Crandford Brook, and features the scenic Meldon Reservoir, prominent waterfalls are less common directly within the Bridestowe and Sourton CPs. However, the nearby Lydford Gorge is renowned for its dramatic waterfall and river features, offering a spectacular natural attraction a short distance away.

Spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the open moorland. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience due to potentially harsh weather, including strong winds and low visibility on the exposed tors.

Yes, the Upper West Okement Valley, near Sourton, is a significant area for hiking. It's rich in points of interest, including a National Nature Reserve and numerous rocky tors. Routes in this area often follow the West Okement River, which rises on Dartmoor's north plateau, providing a different landscape experience compared to the more exposed moorland.

Yes, the Granite Way, a popular multi-use trail, passes through this area, notably over the Meldon Viaduct. You can find routes that incorporate sections of this former railway line, offering relatively flat and accessible paths with excellent views of the surrounding Dartmoor landscape and the Meldon Reservoir.