Combestone Tor

Combestone Tor is a granite outcrop on Dartmoor in Devon, in the South Hams district, between the villages of Holne and Hexworthy. It stands 356 m (1,168 ft) above sea level and counts among the easiest tors in the national park to reach. If you want a proper Dartmoor panorama without a long hike, this is a rewarding stop.

What will you see at Combestone Tor?

The tor is a cluster of weathered granite blocks on the edge of open moorland. The main draw is the outlook east and downhill into the wooded gorge of the River Dart and the Dart Valley nature reserve. The river runs roughly 120 m (400 ft) below the rocks, and on a quiet day you can hear the water forcing its way through the narrow channel.

When visibility is good, the view stretches north to Yar Tor and Bellever, and along the valley toward Dartmeet, where the East and West Dart meet. The rocks also make a handy lunch spot, with sheltered nooks out of the wind.

How do you get to Combestone Tor?

The tor sits beside the road linking Hexworthy with Venford Reservoir. A car park lies about 70 m from the top, across level ground. Without a car it is harder going, since public transport in this corner of Dartmoor is thin, so plan the journey in advance.

Is there a longer walk that includes it?

Yes, the tor is a natural waypoint on several circular routes.

• Hexworthy loop. The national park's own route is about 5 km (3 miles) and takes around 2.5 hours. It begins with a steep climb from Week Ford and joins the road near the top, where a short detour brings you to the rocks.
• Dartmeet loop. This walk climbs through woodland from the West Dart to the tor, returns past Venford Dam and drops back toward the river below Hexworthy. When the water is high, the stepping stones can be impassable, and you will need to retrace your steps to Dartmeet.

When should you visit?

Views are best in clear weather, ideally in the morning or in the hours before sunset, when low light brings out the texture of the granite. Heather blooms in late summer. Weather on Dartmoor turns quickly and the ridge can be breezy, so bring a windproof layer and sturdy footwear even for a short stroll.

Frequently asked questions

Is Combestone Tor easy to reach? Yes. From the roadside car park it is about 70 m over flat ground to the summit.

How high is it? 356 m (1,168 ft) above sea level.

Where exactly is it? On Dartmoor in Devon, near Holne and Hexworthy, above the River Dart valley. The coordinates are roughly 50.531 N, 3.878 W.

How long should I allow? The tor itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. The full Hexworthy loop takes about 2.5 hours.

Can you see Dartmeet from the tor? In good visibility, yes: the view runs along the Dart valley toward Dartmeet, with the hills to the north in the background.