Bellever Forest & Laughter Tor Loop
A varied Dartmoor walk combining forest tracks, open moor and a rewarding tor.
3moors Verified
This route has been reviewed and prepared by 3moors using mapping, terrain analysis, local knowledge and editorial review.
About this walk
This route is appealing because it changes character as you go. It begins with the easier rhythm of forest tracks, which makes for a gentle start, then gradually becomes more open, rougher and more recognisably Dartmoor as you head towards Laughter Tor. | That shift keeps the walk interesting. You get shelter and structure early on, then wider skies and granite scenery later, without needing to commit to a full remote-moor day out. It is a very good in-between route: more adventurous than a simple woodland loop, but still manageable for plenty of walkers.
Who this walk is for
Who this walk is for
- ✖Beginners | ✔ Families | ✔ Dog walkers | ✖ Anyone wanting an easy, interesting short walk
The Experience
• Effort: Easy to moderate • Highlight: Mix of forest and open moorland • Best bit: Emerging from the trees towards Laughter Tor • Watch for: Patchier ground once you leave the main tracks
Elevation Profile
Illustrative profileRoute Summary
A circular route using broad tracks through Bellever Forest before moving out onto more open ground towards Laughter Tor and then looping back. Straightforward overall, though less formal once you leave the forest roads.
Landscape & History
This walk shows two sides of Dartmoor at once: planted forest shaped by management and older open moorland marked by granite and long views. That contrast is part of what makes the route so satisfying.
Bellever Forest & Laughter Tor Loop — Gallery
A few real views from the route
Safety & Conditions
Weather
Open sections are exposed to wind, rain and fast-changing Dartmoor conditions.
Navigation
Moderate once on the moorland stretches, especially in poor visibility.
Livestock & Wildlife
Possible on open moor and nearby grazing areas; keep dogs under control.
Footwear
Walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially if leaving the firmer forest tracks.
Variations
Can be shortened by staying mainly within the forest or extended with extra moorland wandering if conditions and confidence allow.
Access & Parking
Starts gently on good tracks, but the feel becomes more moor-like beyond the woodland sections.
3moors Community
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Wildlife you might see
Common sightings along this route — based on habitat and recent reports
Fox
mammal
Peak seasonCommon Buzzard
bird
Season approachingBilberry
plant
Peak seasonMoorland Fungi
fungi
Season approachingAdder
reptile
Recent sightings on this walk
Real sightings submitted by walkers on this route
No sightings reported for this walk yet — be the first to add one.
History along the route
Base write-up prepared before field check; refine after walking for route feel, path condition and exact moorland detail.
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