Haytor and Hound Tor Circular
Devon
Haytor and Hound Tor Circular is one of Dartmoor's classic routes, covering 7.4 km from the Haytor Visitor Centre across open moorland to two of the moor's most dramatic granite tors. The route crosses heather moorland to Haytor Rocks before following the disused 1820 granite tramway past quarry workings and descending into the ancient mossy woodland of Becka Valley. The climb to Hound Tor reveals the substantial ruins of a deserted medieval village, and the return crosses open moorland back to the car park. With 308 metres of elevation gain, this is a properly rewarding circuit with genuine variety.
This dog friendly walk is endlessly engaging — the open moorland carries the warm, resinous smell of gorse mixed with the cold mineral edge of granite, while Becka Valley brings sudden shade, soft ground and running water. Off-lead potential is moderate on the open moor, but close control is essential near the Dartmoor ponies encountered frequently throughout, and livestock density is high with sheep and cattle grazing the moorland. The final climb back to Haytor is exposed, with significant wind even on clear days. This is one of Dartmoor's most popular routes and gets busy at weekends — early starts are rewarded with quieter paths.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.4 km (4.6 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland, Historic, Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- NT visitor centre with toilets and gift shop; seasonal ice cream van; Rock Inn at Haytor Vale (dog friendly)
- Parking
- Haytor Visitor Centre car park, TQ13 9XT. Pay and display via RingGo app; multiple car parks along the B3387
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Haytor and Hound Tor Circular dog friendly?
Yes, this is a dog friendly route with a rating of 7 out of 10. Dogs are welcome throughout, and after the walk you can head to the Rock Inn at Haytor Vale, which is dog friendly. The NT visitor centre at the start also has toilets and facilities if you need to freshen up.
Can dogs be off lead at Haytor and Hound Tor Circular?
Off-lead potential is moderate on the open moorland sections, but close control is essential throughout. The moor has high livestock density with sheep and cattle grazing, and Dartmoor ponies are encountered frequently along the route , dogs must be kept under close control near all of these.
What should I know before visiting Haytor and Hound Tor Circular with my dog?
This is a 7.4 km circuit with 308 metres of elevation gain, so it's a proper walk that will suit active dogs rather than those needing an easy stroll. The exposed moorland can be very windy even on clear days, and the route is one of Dartmoor's most popular, getting busy at weekends , an early start will reward you with quieter paths. Navigation requires some attention as signage is limited, so it's worth coming prepared.
Visitor Reviews
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Haytor Visitor Centre, Haytor Vale, Newton Abbot, TQ13 9XT, United Kingdom
50.5764, -3.7530
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