Dartmoor
Belstone Tors & Taw Marsh Loop
A rewarding circular walk from Belstone taking in Belstone Tor, Higher Tor and Taw Marsh, with big views, good paths and classic Dartmoor scenery.
3moors Verified
This route has been reviewed and prepared by 3moors using mapping, terrain analysis, local knowledge and editorial review.
About this walk
This is Dartmoor at its most approachable — open ground, solid paths, and views that come quickly. Starting from Belstone, one of the moor's most characterful villages, you climb straight onto Belstone Tor, where the landscape opens out across the Okement valleys. From there, the route rolls across a line of tors — Higher Tor and Oke Tor — before dropping into the wide natural bowl of Taw Marsh, a quieter, softer-feeling stretch of moor. The return follows an easier line, looping back past Scarey Tor and down into the village, often with Dartmoor ponies grazing nearby.
Who this walk is for
Who this walk is for
- ✔Anyone looking for a classic Dartmoor half-day walk
- ✔Those wanting quick access to tors and open views
- ✔Families and dogs welcome (lead near livestock/birds)
- ✔Ideal introduction to Dartmoor walking
- ✖Exposed in poor weather — check forecast first
- ✖Stream crossings can be harder after heavy rain
The Experience
• Effort: Moderate with a few rocky pulls • Highlight: Belstone Tor views + Taw Marsh basin • Experience: Classic Dartmoor — open, varied, scenic • Best for: Half-day walk with strong views
Elevation Profile
Illustrative profileRoute Summary
Start at Belstone village green. Climb to Belstone Tor. Continue along ridge to Higher Tor and Oke Tor. Drop east towards Taw Marsh. Join the clear track (old military road). Follow north through the marsh basin. Turn towards Scarey Tor. Descend via green lanes back to Belstone.
Landscape & History
Belstone Tor is one of the best quick-access viewpoints on northern Dartmoor, sitting above the village of Belstone — one of the moor's most characterful communities. The ridge walk to Higher Tor and Oke Tor follows classic Dartmoor granite formations shaped over millennia.
Taw Marsh is a wide, open basin beneath Steeperton Tor, a quieter and softer-feeling stretch of the moor that offers a contrast to the rocky ridge above. The old military road through the area is a reminder of Dartmoor's long history of military use.
Dartmoor ponies are frequently seen across this section of the moor, along with moorland birds and occasional birds of prey.
Safety & Conditions
Weather
Moor weather changes quickly — carry layers even in summer. The ridge and marsh area can be exposed in wind and rain.
Navigation
Good paths generally, but navigation still required in poor visibility. OS Explorer OL28 recommended. Partial waymarking — paths are generally clear.
Livestock & Wildlife
Keep dogs under control near livestock and ground-nesting birds. Dartmoor ponies frequently present — do not feed or approach.
Footwear
Waterproof boots recommended. Wet ground possible around Taw Marsh and stream crossings. Stream crossings may be harder after rain.
Variations
Short option: Belstone Tor only (2–3 km out and back). Extend: Add Steeperton Tor for a bigger day. Relaxed version: Skip the ridge and stay on lower paths through the marsh.
Access & Parking
Start and finish at Belstone village green (SX 621 938). Limited parking in the village — arrive early. Pub/tea room in village (check opening times). No facilities on route.
3moors Community
Recent conditions or questions about this walk?
Join the 3moors Community to ask about path conditions, parking, wildlife sightings and local tips.
Join the 3moors CommunityDiscussion takes place in our Facebook community.
Join the 3moors Community for path conditions & local tips.
JoinWeather near Belstone village green
Weather forecast temporarily unavailable. Check back shortly.
Wildlife you might see
Common sightings along this route — based on habitat and recent reports
Curlew
bird
Cotton Grass
plant
Peak seasonMoorland Fungi
fungi
Season approachingAdder
reptile
Peak seasonDartmoor Pony
mammal
Recent sightings on this walk
Real sightings submitted by walkers on this route
History along the route
Walk information is based on direct experience and local knowledge. Conditions on the moor can change — always use your own judgement.
More walks to explore
All walks
Buckfast Abbey Riverside Walk
A gentle riverside walk from Buckfast Abbey along the River Dart with woodland, wildlife and peaceful views.
Fingle Bridge Woodland Walk
A peaceful Teign Gorge walk through ancient woodland, river bends and one of Dartmoor’s quieter corners.
Grimspound Bronze Age Settlement Loop
Walk through a 3,000-year-old settlement in Dartmoor's wild heart.