Merripit Hill

Merripit Hill lies just outside of Postbridge and is beside the Moretonhampstead - Princetown road. Despite it's nearness to the road it is often neglected - maybe because Postbridge is just down the hill. Merripit Hill itself is rather bland but it does have one surprise - Stannon valley which lies behind it. This is a quiet little valley that sharply contrasts with the road that the visitor has just left. The extensive gorse in much of the Stannon valley can make walking in the valley rather difficult. Nonetheless it is worth a short visit on a sunny afternoon. The name Merripit derives from Mere Pit - the miry pit or bottom of the Drury brook which has its head just SE of the hill.

Park off the roadside at SX 660800. Then walk up the obvious path to the top of the hill. Over the wall and walk as far or as little in Stannon valley as you wish. There's a good way back up the hillside beside the enclosure wall.

This is an easy walk as described. A little over 1.5 miles. However, it does involve some climbing and walking over irregular ground. But it is an ideal short afternoon walk for the family.

	Looking back from the track that leads up to Merripit Hill. You can just see part of the Moretonhampstead - Princetown road.
	This structure is found on top of Merripit Hill. Its what's left of a Second World War observation post.
	Looking north from Merripit Hill towards Stannon.
	The Stannon valley in a soft autumn light.
	Another view of the Stannon valley.
	The entrance to Stannon.
	Back to the car park alongside the enclosure.