Wistman's Wood Nature Reserve, Dartmoor

Start: Two Bridges sand pit parking area W3W >>

(S/E) From the sand pit (E) proceed north and through the 5-bar gate, continue up the track, through the gate to the right of the farm building, out onto the moorland. Continue north on a path, and there are several dependencies on weathering and vegetation growth. Keep the river in sight, as the path/s levels out, a moorland wall will be visible, and a sign and stile will mark the route.

(1) The sign describes Wistman's Woods and its delicate ecosystem, and warns the public not to enter. The path and route to take will become more defined. The route will run alongside the woods.

(2) At this point, near the Buller Stone (see: POI) it's time to choose Option 1 or 2. This walk has been set as a circular route, walking to the woods and then climbing up to the nearby tors. Option 1: complete the circular route, considering there will be no designated footpaths. This is the option described below Option 2: return to the start point along the same path from the Buller Stone.

Looking right and up the hill towards a northeasterly direction, there will be a large rocky outcrop, the furthest being Longaford Tor. The route climbs; there are no designated footpaths to get to the top.

(3) Longaford Tor: a large moorland Tor, as with all Tors, the top may offer great views, but consider your safety for the extra height gain. Head south along the ridge of the hill, passing several rocky outcrops until reaching the last Littaford Tor.

(4) (Of Interest: If there is good visibility, the next tor south is (B) Crockern Tor.) Heading southwest, a path will emerge. Head back to the gate at the farm. Continue back on the track to (S/E).

NOTE: Dartmoor's weather can change in an instant; one minute it's sunny, and the next, thick with fog, it can be dry, then heavy rain. A section of this route is not very visible/marked. It is strongly recommended that you follow the route using the GPX on the Visorando app.

Start: This walk's starting point, Small car park at Two Bridges W3W >>>

Transport: There is a moorland bus service passing through Two Bridges. The service is not regular. Timings of the buses should be confirmed, allowing for the return trip.

Parking: Vehicle parking - at the start there is a small parking area, which does fill early; plan the walk with this in mind.

Timing: The time taken is estimated, to allow extra time, when appropriate, for exploring and personal pace.

Note: This walk is on open moorland, and dogs must be kept under control, especially near moorland farm animals.

Wellbeing: Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the conditions. Although this is only a short walk, keep hydrated.

Accessibility: There is one stile, gates, and the farm track changes to a moorland path, which can become overgrown and conceal divots or large stones. It is a well-used path, so it should be easily negotiated

Refreshments: There is the Two Bridges Hotel or Bar (not sure about muddy boots though), or see 'In the nearby area', for other options.

(E) The sand pit, Two Bridges quarry, is one of the most important geomorphological sites in the whole of South West England, - Tor formation through weathering. Further reading >>

(B) Crockern Tor - A location where open-air Parliaments and courts were held - 14 -18th century - Further reading >>

• Two Bridges Hotel - Bar and Restaurant
• Post Bridge - The Clapper Bridge - East Dart River
• Belliver Forest - Walks and cycle route
• Princetown - Camping/Bunk houses - Cafes - Public Houses, and Accommodation. Not forgetting Dartmoor Prison