Brent Tor

Brent Tor

Brent Tor is a distinctive 334-metre hill on the western edge of Dartmoor, north of Tavistock. St Michael de Rupe stands on its rocky top, with views east towards Dartmoor and west across the Devon countryside into Cornwall. The hill has 130 metres of prominence and is classified as a Hump.

The climb

The church car park beside the Tavistock–Lydford road gives a short approach. Cross the road carefully, go through the kissing gate and follow the steep path to the churchyard steps. Return by the same route. An alternative approach uses the signed permissive path from Holyeat, on the south side of the hill.

For a longer outing, the Mary Tavy approach follows lanes and farm tracks through Wortha Mill and South Brentor before joining the Holyeat path. The Archangel’s Way continues from Brent Tor through North Brentor and around West Blackdown to Lydford. This is a one-way walk, with road sections, so arrange the return journey in advance.

Rock and history

Brent Tor’s volcanic rocks formed when basaltic lava erupted into a sea during the Carboniferous Period, about 350 million years ago. Fragmented volcanic material survives in the outcrops.

The church records its foundation in 1130 and later medieval enlargement. Around the base of the tor, banks and a ditch form the scheduled hillfort; some of the smaller enclosures are of uncertain date. Respect the churchyard and keep to established paths through the earthworks.

Underfoot and access

The climb is short but steep, with rough grass, stones and steps. Wet or icy surfaces and strong winds make the exposed top more demanding. Wear footwear with good grip and keep clear of steep rock edges.

Toilets by the church car park are listed locally as seasonal, from Easter to the end of September. The church welcomes visitors daily. Check local notices if facilities or a church visit are important to your plans.

The 118 bus serves North Brentor from Tavistock and Okehampton Interchange; reaching the tor requires an onward walk. Check the current timetable and last return bus.

Lydford Gorge is a separate National Trust visit with admission arrangements, seasonal opening and changed walking paths. The old river path between Whitelady Waterfall and Pixie Glen is closed; check the current National Trust route information before adding a gorge walk.