Watern Tor

Watern Tor (SX 629869) is a strangely eroded tor on the eastern side of the North Moor. The views from it are extremely good. Although Watern Tor is not really in the wilderness it is a wild and exposed place much favoured by horse people. On the eastern side of the tor lies the extensive wet ground of Gidleigh Common. There are a few mires in this area which is why the walk is a circular one that skirts the common. 

Park (SX 661877) near Scorhill Farm and walk over the hill to the Scorhill circle. Head north on the path between Buttern hill and Rival Tor. The path then heads westwards to Gartaven Ford and then south westwards over Headon towards Wildtor Well (a small but deep mire). Head up the Walla Brook, cross the ford and carry on the path up to Watern Tor. Admire the view. Follow the newtake wall when descending and make for the rails across the Teign river at SX 640860. Continue along the newtake to Stonetor Hill and then head off northwards towards Scorhill clapper bridge and thence to the car park. 

This is a good walk with gentle climbs. Parts of it can be quite wet especially on the way back - some of it quite near the clapper. Don't underestimate the time needed for the walk especially in winter. You're not back until you cross the clapper. 

Watern Tor lies on the edge of the military range.

	The car park by the entrance to Scorhill Farm (SX 661877).
	Scorhill stone circle. Watern Tor and Wild Tor are on the skyline.
	Looking over Gidleigh Common from SX 649885.
	Gartaven Ford. The boundary rock is in the foreground while on the horizon appears the rocks of Hound Tor.
	A boundary stone on Headon at SX 631880. This one is inscribed with TP (Throwleigh Parish).
	Another view of the boundary stone with Hound Tor and Cosdon Hill completing the backdrop.
	Here's a good example of a serious Dartmoor mire. This is Wildtor Well (SX 628876). Get stuck in this one and you'll know about it.
	The northerly view over Headon from the slope of Watern Tor. On the left is part of the slope of Wild Tor.
	The Thurlstone of Watern Tor.
	A closer view of the stratified granite of Watern Tor. It is thought that this could have been caused by the granite cooling more slowly than usual.
	Some more of the strange looking eroded shapes of Watern Tor.
	A northerly view from Watern Tor.
	Looking over at Wild Tor from Watern Tor.
	Following the newtake on the eastern side of Watern Tor. Down below lies the Teign river as it circles through Gidleigh Common.
	Crossing the Teign over the rails at Hew Lake Foot (SX 640860)
	Looking up the Teign river valley from Hew Lake Foot. On the right is Manga Hill.
	Heading back towards Shovel Down. Kes Tor is on the skyline.
	Another little mire at Stonetor Hill (SX 647858).