SX5586 : Great Links Tor

Great Links Tor

589m Elevation
112m Prominence
England Country
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SX5586 : Great Links Tor

Guy Wareham Photo source

Overview

Great Links Tor

Great Links Tor stands at an impressive elevation of 603 meters, marking it as a prominent feature in the Dartmoor National Park. With a prominence of 140 meters, this Marilyn is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone with a love of magnificent views.

Geology

The rocks that form Great Links Tor are primarily granite, a remnant of volcanic activity long before humans walked the land. This fascinating geological history provides a rich variety of terrain, complete with rugged outcrops and valleys that can pique the interest of any geology enthusiast. It’s hard to resist the allure of a rock that’s older than time - well, almost!

Routes

There are a couple of well-trodden routes leading to this majestic summit.

  • Down Tor to Great Links Tor: This moderate 4.5-kilometer route offers a trek that your legs will appreciate, showcasing beautiful views along the way.
  • Challacombe to Great Links Tor: Approximately 6 kilometers, this route invites you to stroll through the stunning moorland, making it perfect for a leisurely day out.

Terrain and Conditions

Expect rocky outcrops interspersed with the notorious Dartmoor bogs. Be prepared for an adventure as the landscape can change quickly, and a keen eye is needed to avoid muddy missteps!

Summit Features

At the top, you’ll find a blissful panorama and a lovely cairn welcoming weary hikers. It’s the perfect spot for a scenic picnic, provided you don't mind sharing with the occasional sheep!

Views

The views from Great Links Tor are nothing short of breathtaking. You can take in the sweeping Dartmoor landscape, dotted with other granite tors nearby. For the best sights, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn when the weather is most forgiving.

Hazards

As with all Dartmoor adventures, be aware that the weather can change like a chameleon on roller skates. The terrain may also be uneven and slippery after rain, so watch your step.

Access

To embark on your journey, the nearest parking is available at the Challacombe car park. Public transport options are a bit sparse in these parts, so plan accordingly. The closest town is Okehampton, where you can find a pint or a good cup of coffee after your hike.

Facilities

There are no facilities on the mountain itself, so make sure to pack any essentials. However, Okehampton has a range of cafes and shops to help you replenish after, or even before, your adventure!

History

The name 'Great Links Tor' as mentioned, comes from the Cornish 'lyn,' relating to bodies of water in the vicinity. Historically, this tor has been a local landmark for generations, guiding both locals and explorers since time immortal.

So, whether you're an experienced walker or a curious first-timer, Great Links Tor offers a rewarding hike with a side of natural beauty. Adventure awaits!

Explore routes near Great Links Tor

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Castle Drogo and Fingle Bridge: Teign Gorge woodland circuit

7.1 km ~2h 30m Moderate

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Cookworthy Woods Level 2 walk

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Cookworthy Woods Level 3 walk

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Moretonhampstead to Lustleigh: Wray Valley woodland railway trail

13.7 km ~4h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Down Tor to Great Links Tor

A popular route that takes you from Down Tor, offering stunning views over Dartmoor.

4.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

Challacombe to Great Links Tor

This route starts from Challacombe and provides a gentle ascent through scenic moorland.

6 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump Dodd Dewey

Elevation

589m

1,932 ft

Prominence

112m

Coordinates

50.6624, -4.0518

SX550867

OS Map

191

Explorer: OL28N

At the Summit

The summit features rocky outcrops and a prominent cairn, along with panoramic views over Dartmoor and the surrounding landscape.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and moorland with sections of boggy ground particularly after rainfall.

Primarily composed of granitic rocks, Great Links Tor is shaped by volcanic activity that resulted in the rugged terrain and distinctive tors typical of Dartmoor. The area features a mix of granite outcrops and heathland, which provides a unique habitat.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can see the sprawling Dartmoor landscape, including the iconic granite tors and distant views towards the Tamar Valley.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Links' is believed to derive from the Cornish word 'lyn,' meaning 'lake' or 'pool,' likely referring to the numerous water features nearby.

Historical Significance

Great Links Tor has historical significance as it has been a natural landmark for centuries, providing navigational aid for locals and travelers alike.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Challacombe car park, which is well-signposted and offers a good starting point for various Dartmoor walks.

Public Transport

Limited bus services run to nearby villages; check local timetables for availability.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on the mountain; however, Okehampton has various cafes, shops, and restrooms.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • The terrain can be uneven and potentially slippery, especially after rain. Beware of sudden weather changes common in Dartmoor.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Great Links Tor?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Great Links Tor through the maps

Are there other walkers around Great Links Tor?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Great Links Tor search or of course create your own walk for Great Links Tor

Can I organise a walk to Great Links Tor?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Great Links Tor.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Great Links Tor?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Great Links Tor here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Great Links Tor location map

Grid reference: SX550867

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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