Yes Tor Dartmoor
A high point in Dartmoor National Park offering vast, sweeping views, but located within a military firing range requiring schedule checks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access
Yes Tor Dartmoor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high point in Dartmoor National Park offering vast, sweeping views, but located within a military firing range requiring schedule checks.
"The scenery was fantastic, weather held up which was a godsend. And it's all worth it when you get to the top and take in the glorious views."
🎯 Check Firing Times First!
Crucial for safety! Access to Yes Tor is restricted during military firing. Check the schedule online before you go.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Moorland Views
Summit of Yes Tor
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the vast Dartmoor landscape. On clear days, the views stretch for miles.
Foggintor Quarry Exploration
Near Princetown
Discover this unique, atmospheric former granite quarry with striking blue water. A must-see for its dramatic scenery.
Wild Swimming Spots
Various rivers and reservoirs
Take a refreshing dip in designated wild swimming locations across Dartmoor. Perfect for a cool-down on a hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Firing Range Schedule
Wild Camping & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Firing Times First!
Crucial for safety! Access to Yes Tor is restricted during military firing. Check the schedule online before you go.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a comfortable hike.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are few water sources on the tor itself. Carry enough for your hike, especially on longer routes.
🏕️ Respect Wild Camping Rules
Dartmoor allows wild camping, but follow the bylaws: leave no trace, camp away from roads, and be considerate.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Firing Times First!
Crucial for safety! Access to Yes Tor is restricted during military firing. Check the schedule online before you go.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip and ankle support are essential for a comfortable hike.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
There are few water sources on the tor itself. Carry enough for your hike, especially on longer routes.
🏕️ Respect Wild Camping Rules
Dartmoor allows wild camping, but follow the bylaws: leave no trace, camp away from roads, and be considerate.
📸 Capture the Vastness
Bring your camera! The panoramic views from Yes Tor are incredible, especially at sunrise or sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, far-reaching views from Yes Tor, making the steep climb well worth the effort. The stunning scenery and sense of open space are major highlights. However, the potential for military firing range closures and the challenging terrain are noted drawbacks.
"Beautiful place, we started at the reservoir carpark and it was a long steep hike, but well worth it at the top. You can see for milessss!"
Liam Mills
"Can't give this a five out of five due to the sheer amount of swearing that took place during this hike. Hiking not a personal hobbie just during potential trips. The scenery was fantastic, weather held up which was a godsend. And it's all worth it when you get to the top and take in the glorious views."
Joseph Greentree
"Lovely views, great round route available to do the three Tors (about 6 miles) just check there's no live firing scheduled as some of this route is within range."
Gill Turton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yes Tor is accessible via hiking trails from various points in Dartmoor National Park. A common starting point is the reservoir car park near Okehampton, followed by a steep hike. Alternatively, you can access it from Princetown. Always check local access and firing range schedules before setting out.
Parking is available at designated car parks, such as the one near the reservoir or in Princetown. From these points, you'll need to hike to reach Yes Tor. Be aware that some routes may be within the military firing range.
No, you cannot drive directly to the summit of Yes Tor. It is a hiking destination within Dartmoor National Park, requiring you to park at a designated area and walk.
Many visitors start from the reservoir car park for a challenging but rewarding hike. Another option is to approach from Princetown, potentially combining it with a visit to Foggintor Quarry.
Limited bus services operate to towns like Okehampton and Princetown on the edge of Dartmoor. From there, you'll likely need to rely on walking or local taxis to reach trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee or ticket required to visit Yes Tor or Dartmoor National Park. It is a public access area, though access can be restricted due to military activity.
Yes Tor and Dartmoor National Park are open 24/7. However, access to Yes Tor can be temporarily closed due to military firing exercises. Always check the firing schedule beforehand.
No, Yes Tor is located within a military firing range and can be inaccessible when live firing is scheduled. It's crucial to check the Ministry of Defence firing times for Dartmoor before planning your visit.
No permits are required for general hiking in Dartmoor National Park. However, specific activities like camping or drone usage may have regulations.
Absolutely not. It is extremely dangerous to be in the vicinity of Yes Tor during scheduled military firing exercises. Adhere strictly to closure notices.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is hiking to the summit for stunning panoramic views of Dartmoor. It's also a popular spot for photography, picnicking, and experiencing the wild landscape.
The hike can be challenging, especially the ascent from the reservoir car park, which is described as steep. Proper footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.
The views are spectacular and far-reaching, offering a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding moors. It's considered one of the best viewpoints in Dartmoor.
There are no facilities like toilets or visitor centers directly at Yes Tor. You'll find basic amenities in nearby towns like Princetown or Okehampton.
While Yes Tor itself isn't a swimming spot, there are known wild swimming locations within Dartmoor National Park, such as rivers and reservoirs.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Clear days provide the best visibility for capturing the expansive views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast panoramas. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The summit itself offers the most iconic views. Exploring the surrounding tors and rock formations can also yield unique photographic opportunities.
Dramatic weather can create stunning photographic opportunities, but be prepared for wind and rain. Check forecasts and dress accordingly.
Drone usage in Dartmoor National Park is subject to regulations. It's advisable to check the official Dartmoor National Park website for current rules and restrictions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for designated picnic spots and consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting. The sense of adventure and the vast open spaces can be incredibly engaging for children. Always prioritize safety, especially regarding the military firing range and any water bodies.
🎒 Budget Backpackers & Wild Campers
Focus on utilizing the natural resources and the permitted wild camping spots. The primary costs will be transportation to the park and food supplies. Respecting the 'leave no trace' principle is paramount to maintaining these rights.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, the opportunity for wild swimming,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Dartmoor's Wild Camping Rights
When planning a wild camping trip, it's essential to understand and respect the rules. This includes leaving no trace, minimizing your impact, and being considerate of the environment and other users. Responsible wild camping ensures the preservation of this special right for future generations.
Key Takeaways for Wild Campers:
* Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in.
* Minimize Impact: Camp away from roads and settlements.
* Respect Wildlife: Avoid disturbing animals and their habitats.
* Check Bylaws: Familiarize yourself with current regulations.
Navigating the Military Firing Range
Before embarking on your trip, it is absolutely imperative to check the official MoD firing schedule for Dartmoor. This information is usually available online and is updated regularly. Many visitors emphasize the importance of this step, as it can prevent disappointment or, more importantly, ensure your safety.
Safety First:
* Always check the MoD firing schedule before your visit.
* Heed all warning signs and closures posted by the military.
* Never enter the range when it is marked as active.
* Have a backup plan in case of unexpected closures.
Exploring Dartmoor's Unique Landscapes
One such gem is Foggintor Quarry, a former granite quarry near Princetown that has transformed into a striking natural feature with deep, clear blue water. It's a popular spot for photography and a testament to Dartmoor's industrial past.
Must-See Natural & Heritage Sites:
* Yes Tor: For panoramic views.
* Foggintor Quarry: For dramatic scenery.
* River Dart & other waterways: For wild swimming.
* Ancient standing stones and burial sites: For historical exploration.
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