Leather Tor Dartmoor
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from Leather Tor, a dramatic granite outcrop offering stunning vistas over Dartmoor and Burrator Reservoir.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Leather Tor Dartmoor
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from Leather Tor, a dramatic granite outcrop offering stunning vistas over Dartmoor and Burrator Reservoir.
"Wow what an amazing place, stunning views. Took my breath away."
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
Sturdy hiking boots needed 🥾
Terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for safe trekking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Leather Tor Views
Summit of Leather Tor
Panoramic vistas stretching to Burrator Reservoir and beyond, offering breathtaking sights on clear days.
Foggintor Quarry
Near Princetown
A unique and striking former granite quarry with dramatic landscapes, accessible via old railway tracks.
Wistman's Wood
West Dart River Valley
An ancient, gnarled oak woodland creating an almost mystical atmosphere, perfect for a serene walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wild Camping: A Changing Landscape
Navigating Dartmoor's Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
Sturdy hiking boots needed 🥾
Terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for safe trekking.
Navigation is key 🧭
Carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Paths aren't always clear.
Check wild camping rules ⛺
Regulations can change. Verify current wild camping permissions before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
Sturdy hiking boots needed 🥾
Terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for safe trekking.
Navigation is key 🧭
Carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. Paths aren't always clear.
Check wild camping rules ⛺
Regulations can change. Verify current wild camping permissions before you go.
Leave no trace ♻️
Pack out everything you pack in to preserve Dartmoor's natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Leather Tor for its absolutely stunning and breathtaking views, particularly the vistas over Burrator Reservoir. The peaceful atmosphere allows for reflection and recharging. Some note that paths can be less clear, especially in peak season, requiring careful navigation.
"Best views looking back over the Reservoir, you can even see all the way to the ocean on a clear day."
Merlin Perry
"Was advised by tourist info to go here, wasn't disappointed. Wow what an amazing place, stunning views. Took my breath away."
Sara Temperton
"Beautiful views although was quite hard to get up and back at this time of year(August 19’) (no clear path)."
Violet Putnam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Leather Tor is accessible from the B3212 road near Princetown. Parking is available nearby, followed by a walk to the tor. Some visitors note that paths can be unclear, especially in August.
Exploring Dartmoor is best done on foot. Hiking and wild camping are popular activities. Consider planning circular routes to maximize your experience.
Limited bus services operate within Dartmoor National Park, primarily connecting larger towns like Princetown. For deeper exploration, a car or cycling is often more practical.
You can reach Foggintor Quarry by following old railway tracks from Princetown or a short walk from the main road. Driving directly to the quarry itself might be restricted.
While not as common as in some other national parks, local walking groups and outdoor activity providers may offer guided hikes and tours, especially for specific areas like Wistman's Wood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Leather Tor and Dartmoor National Park are free to enter. There are no admission fees for general access to the landscape.
General hiking and access to the moors do not require permits. However, specific activities like large organized events or certain land uses might need permissions.
Dartmoor National Park is open 24/7, year-round. Access to specific sites like visitor centers or facilities may have set hours.
The legal right to wild camp in Dartmoor has been challenged and is subject to ongoing legal developments. It's essential to check the latest regulations before planning a wild camping trip.
Parking is generally free in designated lay-bys and car parks within Dartmoor National Park. Some popular spots might have small charges, but many areas are free to park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The summit of Leather Tor offers the most spectacular views, looking back over Burrator Reservoir and across the vast expanse of Dartmoor. On very clear days, you might even see the ocean.
Dartmoor is home to diverse wildlife, including ponies, sheep, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Keep an eye out during your walks.
Absolutely! Dartmoor's dramatic landscapes, ancient woodlands like Wistman's Wood, and unique tors provide endless photographic opportunities.
Yes, Dartmoor has several beautiful wild swimming spots, particularly in its rivers and reservoirs. Leather Tor is near Burrator Reservoir, which is a popular area.
The terrain around Leather Tor can be rocky and uneven. The ascent to the tor itself requires some scrambling, and paths may not always be clearly defined.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at Leather Tor. The nearest amenities are in Princetown, which has pubs and cafes. It's best to pack a picnic.
Yes, picnicking is a fantastic way to enjoy Dartmoor. There are many scenic spots perfect for a packed lunch. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Princetown offers a few pubs and cafes, providing traditional pub fare and light refreshments. It's a good place to refuel after a hike.
Food stalls are not common within the national park itself, especially in more remote areas like Leather Tor. Markets are typically found in larger towns on specific days.
Larger villages within Dartmoor may have small general stores, but for comprehensive supplies, it's advisable to stock up before entering the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for Leather Tor. Clear days provide expansive views, while misty mornings can add an atmospheric quality.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
The quarry itself offers dramatic, rugged textures and reflections in any water present. The surrounding landscape also provides excellent backdrops.
The ancient, moss-covered trees and the ethereal light filtering through the canopy make Wistman's Wood incredibly photogenic, especially on misty days.
Focus on the setup, the surrounding landscape at dawn or dusk, and the feeling of solitude. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Adventurers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Changing World of Wild Camping in Dartmoor
For those who have experienced wild camping here, it's often described as a peaceful and mentally restorative activity. The ability to set up camp under the stars, surrounded by the vastness of the moor, is a significant draw. While the legal landscape is evolving, the spirit of adventure and connection with nature that wild camping fosters remains a powerful aspect of the Dartmoor experience for many.
Navigating Dartmoor's Rugged Beauty
Effective navigation is paramount for a safe and enjoyable trip. Carrying a map and compass, and knowing how to use them, is highly recommended. Many visitors opt for GPS devices or navigation apps, but it's wise to have a backup. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential to tackle the varied terrain and prevent injuries. Being prepared for Dartmoor's unpredictable weather, which can change rapidly from sunshine to heavy rain and wind, is also crucial for comfort and safety.
Discovering Dartmoor's Unique Sites
For a different kind of natural wonder, Wistman's Wood is an ancient oak forest that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Its gnarled, moss-covered trees create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a tranquil walk and a stark contrast to the open moorland. These diverse sites highlight the varied and captivating natural beauty that Dartmoor National Park has to offer, from rugged granite outcrops to mystical ancient woodlands.
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