Laughter Tor and Bellever Tor

If you’re fortunate enough to visit on a fine weather day, this walk really shows off Dartmoor’s natural beauty. While it’s not the easiest, your efforts will be rewarded with sweeping views across the moors and Bellever Forest. A lot of this route is over exposed landscape save for some stints of woodland, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, bring plenty of water and apply sun cream for sunny days!

The easiest way to access this route is by car, arriving at Bellever car park. This is owned by the Forestry Commission so charges apply. There are toilets here but no other facilities or dog waste bins, and there are no bins en route – be sure to pick up after your dog and take your bags with you. Dogs are welcome off lead here but be aware of grazing ponies and sheep, and put your dogs on lead where necessary. The East Dart River runs past Bellever car park, and it’s the perfect place for dogs to splash around and for you to dip your toes or go wild swimming to cool off after your walk!

The terrain here is a mix of rocky paths, grass and woodland tracks. It’s important to wear sturdy footwear for the uneven ground, especially if you plan on ascending the rocky trig point at Bellever Tor to take in the panoramic views. The ascent here is steep but well worth it, with views over Bellever Forest and the moors, even all the way over to Princetown.

As the nearest cafes and pubs are around 20 minutes drive from Bellever, it’s a great excuse to bring a picnic and sit by the East Dart River, or at any of the stunning viewpoints en route, to take in the gorgeous scenery and refuel along your walk.