the classic guide

A guide to the West Country from the people that know…

High Willhays

At the top (621m), you can proudly claim to have reached not only the highest summit on Dartmoor, but the highest point in Great Britain south of the Brecon Beacons. Join in the latest countryside craze that is 'letterboxing' and orienteer between thousands of boxes hidden on the moors to collect rubber stamps and try for membership of the '100 Club'. But beware, this remote northern part of Dartmoor is periodically used by the military for firing practice, check before you go. Drive onto Dartmoor off the A30 near Okehampton and park in the Meldon Reservoir car park.

4 Stars

Jun 2011

Not a huge amount to see - nearby Yes Tor is perhaps a little more impressive, but from the summit the views are fantastic. On a clear day you can see Bodmin Moor, Exmoor and Plymouth Sound. In the West Okement valley below High Willhays is Black-a-Tor copse, an ancient oak woodland similar to Wistman's Wood, but perhaps less busy. And the surrounding moorland is more spectacular. Behind High Willhays towards Hangingstone Hill is the remotest part of the moor and is a good few miles from the nearest road. Watch out for peat bogs though!

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3 Stars

Jul 2008

This can be a challenging walk to do so good navigational skills are needed, but with fantastic views over Dartmoor, it is definitely rewarding and worth it.

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