Name: This Dartmoor Hike Took Me Somewhere I Didn't Expect
Uploaded: 2026-01-24 12:00:18
Duration: 23 min 40 s

Question 1

Where is Ashbury Tor on Dartmoor and how do you get there?

Accepted Answer

In this video I start near the Okehampton military base and make my way up via East Hill before heading over to Ashbury Tor. After that I drop into the East Okement Valley, cross the river, and climb steeply back up onto Dartmoor proper. It’s a brilliant loop because you get tors, valleys, and big views without it feeling repetitive.

Question 2

Is Ashbury Tor worth visiting if it’s not a prominent tor?

Accepted Answer

Yes—because it’s one of those tors that’s so much more than it looks. From the north the rocks barely poke above the ground, but from the wooded valley to the south they look like towering walls. The views down into the Mor Brook Valley and over into the East Okement Valley are stunning as well.

Question 3

What is the Iron Age hill fort you visit on this Dartmoor hike?

Accepted Answer

The ‘mound of dirt’ I walk up to is actually the wall of an Iron Age hill fort, and the gap I go through would’ve been the entrance. Once you’re inside, it’s obvious why they chose it—flat ground and massive visibility to the north. To the south and east the natural defenses drop away steeply into the valleys, which would’ve been horrible to attack up.

Question 4

How hard is the climb from the East Okement Valley back onto the high moor?

Accepted Answer

It’s a steep old climb—no getting around it. It never looks as steep on camera as it feels in real life, but once you’re up, you’re rewarded with proper Dartmoor views. That’s the thing with the moor: it doesn’t give up its views easily, but they’re worth it.

Question 5

What tors and hills are included in this route?

Accepted Answer

I start with East Hill, then head to Ashbury Tor (my tor number 71), then later visit Scarey Tor. I finish up by summiting Halstock Hill before heading back to the car near the military base. Along the way you can also see loads of landmarks like the Belstone Ridge and Cosdon Beacon.

Question 6

What should I pack for winter hiking on Dartmoor?

Accepted Answer

You’ve got to pack for every eventuality because it can change mid-walk—waterproofs, fleece, and often a down jacket on days like this. I’m constantly swapping gloves, hats, and layers depending on wind chill and whether I’m in the woods or up on the open moor. Even when it’s clear, it can be absolutely Baltic.

Question 7

Why is there a flag pole on Halstock Hill and what does the red flag mean?

Accepted Answer

That flag pole is part of the military training zone up there. When they’re firing live ammunition they raise a red flag to warn you not to enter. It’s basically there to stop you getting shot, which is… nice of them.

This Dartmoor Hike Took Me Somewhere I Didn't Expect

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