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Dartmoor Forest

Wistman's Wood

Highlight • Forest

Wistman's Wood

Hiking

4.9

(198)

This Highlight is in a protected area

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Dartmoor National Park

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  • Location: Dartmoor Forest, West Devon, Devon, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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    Tips

    October 9, 2018

    Hiking

    Wistman’s Wood is like a fairytale scene. Nestling in a moorland cleft, the atmospheric dwarf oak woodland is filled with jumbled boulders and everything is covered in thick and otherworldly …

    October 14, 2022

    Hiking

    A mysterious forest? It seems like. You better not visit this under a bright sun. With some fog and on a drizzly day, this oak forest full of large stones covered with all kinds of mosses will seem mysterious.
    Translated by

    April 30, 2018

    Hiking

    These Ancient Oak woodlands are steeped in folklore and gave rise to Sherlock Holme's Hounds of Baskerville. Spend a night if the woods if you dare! Realistically there is nowhere to sleep in the woods as the woodland is established in a boulder field but it is still worth a visit in the dark!

    Another similar woodland is found in the North West corner of Dartmoor called Black-a-Tor Copse near Meldon Reservoir.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Wistman's Wood

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    4.1

    (60)

    173

    hikers

    #1.

    Wistman's Wood & Beardown Tor loop from Two Bridges

    8.31km

    02:20

    170m

    170m

    Embark on a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) hike through Dartmoor's unique landscape, gaining 556 feet (170 metres) of elevation over approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. You will wander through the ancient, moss-draped trees of Wistman's Wood, a truly atmospheric experience. The trail then opens up to the expansive moorland, leading you to the impressive granite outcrops of Beardown Tor, where you can take in sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.

    Before you head out, be aware that parts of this route may cross the Merrivale Firing Range. Always check the firing times beforehand to ensure safe passage, as the range can be closed during active periods. Also, keep in mind that river crossings on the trail can become impassable or even dangerous after heavy rainfall, so plan your visit for drier conditions if possible.

    This hike offers a rare chance to explore Wistman's Wood, a relict oak woodland that feels like stepping into a fairy tale with its stunted, ancient trees covered in thick moss and lichen. From the heights of Beardown Tor, you will not only see the distinctive wood below but also catch glimpses of other iconic Dartmoor landmarks like Great Mis Tor in the distance. It is a journey that blends unique natural features with stunning panoramic vistas.

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    Moderate
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    Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Easy
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    Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Easy

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 400 m

    Weather

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    Saturday 16 May

    11°C

    4°C

    69 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h

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    Location: Dartmoor Forest, West Devon, Devon, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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