South Tawton Common

Downs, Moorland in Devon West Devon

England

South Tawton Common

Benchmark - bank of River Taw - Belstone A benchmark cut into the north-west facing side of a granite boulder, possibly very old. Also, on upper part of rock, the letter B. Top of B touches the bright green moss. To see both certain light conditions help.

The river bank and path has many granite boulders, so finding this one is not easy.

The walk along side the Taw river is lovely. — Benchmark - bank of River Taw - Belstone Credit: Murray Oates

South Tawton Common, located in the county of Devon, England, is a picturesque expanse of land covering approximately 200 hectares. Characterized by its diverse landscapes, the common is made up of a combination of downs, moorland, and heathland.

The downs of South Tawton Common offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. These rolling hills are covered in soft grasses and scattered with vibrant wildflowers during the summer months. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including skylarks and stonechats, which can be spotted flitting through the open skies.

Moving towards the moorland, visitors are greeted with vast stretches of open space, covered in heather and gorse. This unique habitat supports a rich array of wildlife, such as Dartford warblers, foxes, and even the occasional deer. The moorland is crisscrossed with footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its beauty while enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

South Tawton Common also boasts several small streams and ponds, which provide a haven for dragonflies, newts, and other aquatic creatures. These wetland areas add to the diversity of the common and offer a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature.

The common is managed by the Dartmoor National Park Authority, which ensures its conservation and protection for future generations to enjoy. With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, South Tawton Common is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a true gem of Devon.

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South Tawton Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.70665/-3.9342194 or Grid Reference SX6391. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Benchmark - bank of River Taw - Belstone

A benchmark cut into the north-west facing side of a granite boulder, possibly very old. Also, on upper part of rock, the letter B. Top of B touches the bright green moss. To see both certain light conditions help. The river bank and path has many granite boulders, so finding this one is not easy. The walk along side the Taw river is lovely.

Murray Oates

Track on Dartmoor south of Belstone

David Smith

Eastern slope of Belstone Common

David Smith

Bernard's Acre, Belstone

A Christian residential centre for families and young people

David Smith

Track in valley of River Taw, south of Belstone

David Smith

Track on Belstone Common

David Smith

Dartmoor pony and valley of River Taw, Belstone Common

David Smith

Taw valley, Dartmoor, with water supply access

Amidst the bracken there are covers for access to the water pipes

David Smith

Horseshoe bend in River Taw, Belstone Common

David Smith

Old Trees on the Wall

Some gnarled rowan trees growing out of a stone wall. This is along the edge of a slice of enclosed land stretching out into the moor along the valley south of Belstone.

Des Blenkinsopp

Farm Track near Belstone

A fairly good track goes along the bottom of the valley beside a few properties south of Belstone. It comes to an end just beyond here at a sheep enclosure.

Des Blenkinsopp

Sheepfold, near Belstone

A substantial structure at the end of a track running south out of Belstone village. The map shows that the public footpath along it ends here, and that's right. Progress beyond this point would be difficult.

Des Blenkinsopp