Bellever Tor on Dartmoor, Devon. A granite tor in the foreground, with moorland and bright purple heather in the foreground on a bright and sunny day.

Why Bellever Tor is One of Dartmoor’s Most Beautiful Walks

If you’re seeking a beautiful walk in Dartmoor, Bellever Tor is the ultimate location. Offering walkers a mix of open moorland, forest trails, and sweeping views, it’s a walk that is sure to stay with you for many years to come. 

Whether you’re a couple wanting to get out on a romantic stroll, a family looking for an easy adventure, or a solo walker chasing a memorable hike, this spot has something for everyone. 

And, best of all, the trails are well-marked for complete peace of mind. Time your walk to Bellever Tor right, and you may even be in for a Dartmoor pony sighting. 

It’s easy to plan a visit from nearby Postbridge, and pairing the walk with a stop at the Visitor Centre makes for a full, relaxed day.

What Makes Bellever Tor Special

The tor itself dominates above the surrounding moor with its dramatic granite outcrops, providing a 360-degree panorama for walkers.

Surrounding Bellever Forest, you’ll find a peaceful natural haven complete with ancient woodland and the occasional stone circle. Forestry England maintains the trails here, so paths are always clear and easy to follow.

Walking up to the summit gives a real sense of Dartmoor’s scale, while the forested routes offer a calmer pace with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic.

 

Where to Start and How to Get There

There are a couple of options for starting your adventure at Bellever Tor: begin at the Bellever Forest car park or the Postbridge National Visitor Centre. 

The Bellever Forest car park is ideal for those wanting easy access to woodland trails. You’ll find a few picnic spots along the way and easy paths that are suitable for most families.

Alternatively, the Postbridge National Park Visitor Centre is a great start, especially if you want a more guided approach. The centre has maps, toilets, and even Tramper hire for visitors who need mobility support. From here, it’s just a short walk into the forest before joining the main trails up to the tor.

A gravel path leading through a grassy area towards a dense forest under a partly cloudy sky.

A Relaxed Loop Through Bellever Forest

For a gentle, family-friendly experience, we recommend the loop through Bellever Forest. The paths are waymarked and flat, making it suitable for little ones or anyone who wants to walk slowly.

You can make it an easy half-day adventure by adding an out-and-back to the summit for photos or a picnic. There are of course plenty of clearings to sit and soak in the scenery too.

Practical Tips for a Safe, Happy Walk

As you may already know, Dartmoor weather changes quickly, so check forecasts before you head out on a walk. 

Always wear sturdy shoes, take a map just incase, and keep any dogs under control. It’s important to never feed the ponies, and finally to stay on marked trails to protect wildlife and historic sites.

Forestry England also posts updates on any active operations or temporary closures, so it’s worth checking before heading out.

Make a Day of It in Postbridge

While you’re in the area, don’t miss the famous Postbridge Clapper Bridge. This medieval stone bridge sits near the Visitor Centre and is a lovely spot for photos or a picnic.

You can combine the walk with other local highlights for a full day of Dartmoor exploration, making the most of the landscape and heritage.

 

Where to Stay Nearby

After a day on the moor, it’s always nice to return somewhere cosy. The White Hart in Moretonhampstead is a classic Dartmoor inn with welcoming rooms, hearty food, and all the comforts you need.

It’s the perfect base for Bellever Tor and other Dartmoor National Park walks, allowing you to relax with a hot meal and soft bed after fresh air and a day of walking.

 

Look Forward to the Bellever Tor Walk

Bellever Tor is one of Dartmoor’s most rewarding half-day walks. It combines accessible trails, a touch of history, and dramatic summit views that make it memorable for all ages.

Take your time, enjoy the forest paths, watch for ponies, and savour the vistas from the top. It’s the kind of walk that stays with you long after you leave the moor.

Looking to explore more walks on Dartmoor? Take a look at our other blogs, where we have rounded up our picks for the top 5 Dartmoor tors and 5 of the best walks on Dartmoor

 

Horses on dartmoor
Close-up of vibrant moorland vegetation with clusters of purple heather and yellow gorse flowers growing densely under warm sunlight.
Bridge over bovey river
Dartmoor Stone bridge