Exploring Dartmoor: A Winter Hike to Buckland Beacon and Beyond 25th November 2025

The cold, sunny, and crisp weather set the perfect stage for an early winter hike across Dartmoor. Starting from the Cold East Cross car park at 9:15 am, the day promised clear skies and invigorating air, ideal for exploring some of Dartmoor’s most striking natural and historical landmarks. This hike took me from the Ten Commandments Stones near Buckland Beacon, through open moorland and woodland, to the impressive summit of Haytor and beyond.

Starting the Journey at Cold East Cross

The hike began with a straightforward walk across the car park, heading directly towards the road leading to the cattle grid. This initial stretch was easy and flat, allowing time to settle into the rhythm of walking in the fresh winter air. After reaching the cattle grid, I veered right to follow the path ascending the hill towards Buckland Beacon.

The climb was steady but manageable, and the crisp air made the effort feel refreshing rather than tiring. As I approached the top, the landscape opened up, revealing the famous Ten Commandments Stones.

Discovering the Ten Commandments Stones

The Ten Commandments Stones lie just below Buckland Beacon on the southeastern side of Dartmoor. These stones were commissioned by William Whitely, the lord of Buckland Manor, who asked a local sculptor to carve the Ten Commandments onto two large stones at the top of the Beacon. The engraving was completed in 1928, and in 1995, the National Park Authority repainted the lettering to preserve its visibility.

Standing there, the stones felt like a quiet monument to history amid the wild moorland. The cold wind swept across the hilltop, but the sun made the scene feel alive and vivid. After circumnavigating Buckland Beacon, I began my descent into the valley below.

Crossing the Moorland to Rippon

From the valley, I headed towards the road that would lead back to the car park but instead crossed it to enter the open moorland. The path led me up the hill to Rippon, which stands at 473 meters. The climb was invigorating, and the open space around me was dotted with patches of frost and low winter vegetation.

At the summit of Rippon, I found shelter from the chilly wind behind some rocks. This was the perfect spot to pause and enjoy the stunning views over Haytor Vale. The valley stretched out below, framed by the rolling hills of Dartmoor, and the clear sky made every detail sharp and distinct.

Reaching the Summit of Haytor

Feeling refreshed, I continued by descending a gentle slope before ascending the incline to Haytor, which stands slightly higher at 475 meters. The final approach to the summit was marked by large granite rocks that gave Haytor its dramatic character.

At the top, the wind was strong and very cold, but the panoramic views made the effort worthwhile. From this vantage point, the vast expanse of Dartmoor unfolded in every direction. The sun highlighted the textures of the moorland and the distant woodlands, creating a breathtaking winter scene.

Exploring Bag Tor and the Woodland Path

After spending about five minutes at Haytor, I followed the path down to the main road. Crossing it, I moved onto grassy terrain leading to Bag Tor, a less conspicuous rock formation standing at 349 meters. Here, the landscape began to change noticeably from open moorland to woodland.

The path became leaf-covered and winding as I entered the woods. The quiet atmosphere was a welcome contrast to the exposed hilltops. Along the way, I passed Bagtor House, which appeared unoccupied, adding a touch of mystery to the walk.

Ending the Trail at the Farm and Discovering a Waterfall

Continuing through the woods, I arrived at a farm that marked the end of the trail. Instead of turning back immediately, I walked back up the hill for about ten minutes until I found a turn on the left leading down to a stream and a small waterfall.

Crossing the stream, I followed the path up a fairly steep slope. The climb was challenging but rewarding, with the sound of flowing water and the sight of the waterfall providing a peaceful break from the exertion.

Final Thoughts on the Winter Hike

This early winter hike across Dartmoor offered a mix of history, natural beauty, and varied terrain. The cold, sunny, and crisp conditions made the experience invigorating and memorable. From the carved Ten Commandments Stones to the panoramic views at Haytor and the quiet woodland paths, the route showcased the diverse character of Dartmoor.