Prehistoric Dartmoor | Grimspound, Coombe Down and Challacombe

Jump into prehistory on Dartmoor National Park! Whether you are new to Dartmoor or an experienced walker in the area, this walk has so much to offer. Expect good vibes, sites of international archeological significance, stunning views (weather dependant!), maybe a little bit of mud (aka character building), and so much more.

Places are always limited on our walks, so do book on as soon as you can!

Walk description:

Following some brief introductions and safety talks we will begin our walk - there will be plenty of time for everyone to get to know each other as we progress through the day. 

From the Bennett's Cross car park we'll take the Two Moors Way path eastward, keeping Birch Tor to our right. Crossing over a minor road, we'll pass Shapley Tor to the north and Hookney Tor to the south, before beginning a gentle descent into agricultural land via Coombe Down and the blissful pool of water that has accumulated around the disused shaft. The next short stretch through level, open fields to some might seem monotonous, but the farms and animals reveal an insight into the gentle pace of life for those who live in Dartmoor National Park. Soon we'll find ourselves walking through the recently clear-felled Heathercombe Forest, a real treat of a section that highlights natural forest succession and many discussion points about the use of the land within the National Park. 

Leaving the forest behind, we will tackle our first major ascent for the day over King Tor and on towards the late-Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound. There will be time to explore the remains of the site following a quick discussion about it's use and location, before we press on to Headland Warren Farm and then south along a pleasant, level track to Challacombe Down. Despite the close proximity of a minor road to the east, the trail offers a wonderful sense of freedom. The broken ground in this area is due to old mine-workings, a characteristic feature of this leg of the walk. 

The final stretch of the walk see's us heading north-west along a path littered with old mine buildings and alongside a small stream where we might spot a heron or some Dartmoor ponies. No doubt our place will slow slightly as we make our way back to the car park and take the time to reflect on the day's walk and all we have seen and learnt. Depending on our finish time, there may be the opportunity to get some refreshments at the Warren House Inn, one of the most remote inns in the country where the fire is said to have been burning continuously since 1845.

Walk length: 

Approx. 4/5hrs for 9 miles

Date and time:

Saturday 11th March 2023 | Start at 10:30am - meet around 10:15am 

Start/finish location: 

OS Explorer OL 28 GR 681 817

Getting to Bennett's Cross car park: 

The car park is located by the side of the B3212 near the Warren House Inn - you'll know you are at the right one as there will be the cross! However, in the event of the car park being full, please park in another space on the side of the road and walk up.

The nearest post code is: PL20 6TA - please note this does not take you directly to the car park.

Toilet stops:

There are no toilets on this walk. However, once back at the cars at the end of the walk the Warren House Inn should be open. If you use their loos, please consider buying something as well!

Media:

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Weather:

All of our walks are weather dependant. The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the days before and will send you an email and text if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! You should come fully kitted out for a full day's hike in the walking area.

Accidents and Incidents:

Abbie and our walk leaders are all qualified first aiders and will always carry an appropriate first aid kit. We will have always created a risk assessment before your event takes place to mitigate any issues that might arise.

Honesty is essential to staying safe. Should you be involved in an accident or become injured during the walk it is important that you notify Abbie or other walk leaders as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let them know. Please use the booking form and the paper disclaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything sich as previous medical issues or injuries that may affect your experience. Abbie is also a qualified and insured Mountain Leader.

By joining this event you understand that:  walking in nature in an outdoor area brings with it a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by Abbie and her team and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

By joining this walk you are also acknowledging that you have read our Safeguarding Policy and agree to it.

Any queries please get in touch.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk except emergency rations. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

Dogs:

Well behaved dogs are welcome on this event but they must be kept on a lead at all times and able to work well with other dogs. Please email at time of booking to confirm that you are bringing a dog: admin@spendmoretimeinthewild.co.uk

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel an event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund. We may cancel up to 12 hours ahead of an event due to personal injury or safety concerns re the weather and will notify you by email.

By You: We require 30 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 75% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 30 days to 7 days before your scheduled arrival.

- 100% of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 7 days.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via the 'contact' page. You will be supplied with a contact number for emergency use on the day of the walk in your booking package.