Top 20 Natural Monuments around Northlew

The area around Northlew, particularly within Dartmoor National Park, features several notable natural monuments. These include Yes Tor summit, the second highest point in Dartmoor, offering stunning vistas. Another significant site is High Willhays summit, which is the highest point on Dartmoor itself. You can also explore West Mill Tor, known for its castle-like appearance and views towards Exmoor.

Yes, Widgery Cross at Brat Tor is a significant historical natural monument. Erected in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, this granite cross stands almost 13 feet tall and offers expansive views from its exposed location on Bray Tor.

The natural monuments around Northlew are primarily characterized by their distinctive granite formations, known as tors. Beyond the prominent summits, you can find unique sites like Belstone Common Tor, which features a jumbled mound of granite rocks, evidence of past stonecutting, and even rare rock basins. Further afield on Dartmoor, iconic granite outcrops like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor offer breathtaking panoramic views.

The natural monuments around Northlew are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with routes like the 'Meldon Reservoir & Black Tor loop' or the 'Yes Tor summit – High Willhays summit loop'. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Northlew guide. For cyclists, there are also numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Scenic Road Stretch – Woodland Pathway loop', detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Northlew guide.

Many of the natural monuments on Dartmoor offer accessible paths suitable for families, though some involve moderate climbs. For easier walks, consider routes around Meldon Reservoir, which can be found in the Easy hikes around Northlew guide. While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't always assigned to individual tors, the general appeal of exploring granite formations and open moorland is often enjoyed by families.

The best time to visit the natural monuments around Northlew, particularly those within Dartmoor National Park, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September). During this period, the weather is generally milder, and the days are longer, making for more pleasant hiking and exploration. However, Dartmoor's landscape offers unique beauty in all seasons, with autumn bringing vibrant colors and winter providing a stark, dramatic atmosphere, though conditions can be more challenging.

When planning a visit to Yes Tor summit, it's important to note that it is close to a military firing range. Always check for firing times before your visit to ensure safety and access. You can typically find this information on the Dartmoor military ranges website. Additionally, always start out well-equipped for tours through Dartmoor, as weather conditions can change rapidly.

Wistman's Wood, while not directly in Northlew, is a truly unique natural monument within the Dartmoor area. It's an ancient dwarf oak woodland, characterized by its gnarled, moss-covered trees growing amidst jumbled granite boulders. This creates an enchanting, almost otherworldly atmosphere, distinct from the more open moorland tors.

Parking facilities vary by location. For instance, there is a free car park not far from the base of Widgery Cross at Brat Tor, accessible via a track alongside the Dartmoor Inn on the A386. For other tors and natural features within Dartmoor National Park, designated parking areas or roadside parking spots are often available, but it's advisable to research specific locations beforehand.

Visitors consistently praise the natural monuments around Northlew for their expansive views and the opportunity to immerse themselves in Dartmoor's rugged beauty. The 'wonderful views' from summits like Yes Tor and High Willhays are frequently highlighted, especially on clear days. The unique geological formations and the sense of wildness and tranquility are also highly appreciated.

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails that allow you to experience the natural beauty of the area. For example, the 'Meldon Dam – Meldon Reservoir loop from Meldon Viaduct' is an easy 7 km hike. Another accessible option is the 'Meldon Dam – Black Tor loop from Meldon Viaduct'. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Northlew guide.