Brat Tor and Widgery Cross Walk
This walk climbs to Brat Tor and Widgery Cross near Lydford in the Dartmoor National Park.
You can start the walk from the car park at High Down to the west of the hill and then follow footpaths east up to the tor and cross at the summit.
The route follows open moorland terrain, with far-reaching views over the surrounding tors, valleys, and rugged landscape of western Dartmoor. The tor itself rises prominently above the River Lyd, and at its summit stands Widgery Cross, a striking granite monument erected in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. The cross, at nearly four metres high, is the tallest on Dartmoor and serves as a distinctive landmark visible from miles around. On a clear day, the walk offers panoramic views stretching across the moors to Cornwall, including glimpses of Bodmin Moor and even the distant shimmer of the sea.
The terrain consists of rough grassland, heather-covered slopes, and rocky outcrops. The River Lyd runs through the valley below, with small waterfalls and cascades adding to the scenery. The area supports a range of moorland flora, including gorse and heather, which provide bursts of colour in late summer. Mosses and lichens thrive in the damp conditions of the tor’s granite rocks. Birdlife includes skylarks and meadow pipits, often seen flitting over the heath, while ravens and buzzards soar overhead. The moors are also home to Dartmoor ponies, which graze the hillsides, along with occasional sightings of red deer in the more secluded areas.
You can continue your walking in the area by heading west to visit the wonderful Lydford Gorge.
Brat Tor and Widgery Cross Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Brat Tor and Widgery Cross Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Brat Tor and Widgery Cross OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Brat Tor and Widgery Cross Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
The Dartmoor Inn is located west of the car park. The pub dates back to the 16th century and serves good quality food. Inside there's slate flooring, wooden furniture and a wonderful real fire. Outside there's a lovely garden area with views of the countryside. You can find them at postcode EX20 4AY for your sat navs. The inn is dog friendly.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Widgery Cross on Brat Tor
Track on Vale Down
High Down car park
River Lyd at the foot of Brat Tor and Arms Tor