The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Kelly

The region around Kelly's mountain peaks offers a diverse landscape, characterized by prominent summits, historical sites, and panoramic views. You can expect varied terrain, from high points overlooking the Tamar Valley to tors within Dartmoor National Park. The area blends natural beauty with significant historical landmarks.

The mountain peaks around Kelly are rich in history. For instance, Kit Hill Trig Point features 18 burial mounds and insights into Cornwall's mining past. Gibbet Hill has a prehistoric barrow on top and is known for its past as a site where criminals were placed in a gibbet. Additionally, St Michael's Church, Brent Tor, a church resembling a castle, stands atop a prominent tor.

Yes, several peaks offer fantastic views. Kit Hill Trig Point provides panoramic views high above the Tamar Valley. St Michael's Church, Brent Tor offers a fantastic viewpoint visible across south Dartmoor. From View from Gibbet Hill, you can enjoy expansive vistas over Dartmoor National Park and west Devon.

Many of the routes to the mountain peaks around Kelly are considered intermediate in difficulty. For example, the stroll up Kit Hill Trig Point is described as a windy 2.5-mile (4 km) walk, and the climb for cyclists can be vicious. The trails around St Michael's Church, Brent Tor and Gibbet Hill also fall into the intermediate category, offering rewarding experiences for those with some hiking experience.

Beyond exploring the peaks themselves, the area around Kelly offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including loops from Lifton, Marystow, and Launceston. For hiking, there are routes like the Blanchdown Wood loop or the Gibbet Hill loop. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as the Lake Viaduct loop or the St Michael's Church, Brent Tor loop. More details on these activities can be found in the Running Trails around Kelly, Hiking around Kelly, and Cycling around Kelly guides.

Yes, there are several hiking trails available near the mountain peaks around Kelly. Options range from easy routes like the Blanchdown Wood loop from Sydenham Damerel (5.7 km) to moderate trails such as the Gibbet Hill loop from Brentor (13.7 km) and the Launceston Castle loop (14.9 km). You can explore more hiking options in the Hiking around Kelly guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and expansive views offered by the peaks. The historical significance of sites like Kit Hill Trig Point and Gibbet Hill, combined with the stunning panoramic vistas from locations such as View from Gibbet Hill, are frequently highlighted. The unique sight of St Michael's Church, Brent Tor, perched atop a tor, also leaves a lasting impression.

Yes, St Michael's Church, Brent Tor is a notable religious building located directly on a summit. This distinctive church, which resembles a castle, is visible across south Dartmoor and is open for services from Easter Sunday. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Yes, the area provides cycling opportunities, though some climbs can be challenging. For instance, the climb to Kit Hill Trig Point is noted as a 'vicious climb' for cyclists, but offers fantastic panoramic views. There are also dedicated cycling routes in the region, such as the Lake Viaduct loop and various loops around St Michael's Church, Brent Tor. More details can be found in the Cycling around Kelly guide.

Gibbet Hill holds significant historical importance. It was historically known as Gallows Hill and was a site where criminals, including murderers, sheep thieves, and highwaymen, were placed in a gibbet as a warning to others. Additionally, it features a prehistoric barrow on its summit and offers fantastic views over Dartmoor National Park and west Devon from its 1,150-foot (350 m) elevation.

Kit Hill Trig Point is unique for its blend of natural elevation and rich history. It sits high above the Tamar Valley, offering extensive views. Historically, it features 18 burial mounds, neolithic and bronze-age barrows, and provides insights into Cornwall's mining heritage. It's a place where you can experience both natural beauty and a deep sense of the past.