Belstone

Belstone is one of Dartmoor's most picturesque villages, perched nearly 1,000 feet (300 metres) above sea level on the northern edge of the National Park, just a few miles south of Okehampton. Recorded in the Domesday Book as Bellestam, the village has a long and fascinating history stretching back to Saxon and medieval times, while the surrounding moorland preserves even older traces of human activity. Bronze Age remains, including the celebrated Nine Maidens stone circle, lie within easy walking distance of the village, and the nearby slopes of Belstone Tor have inspired centuries of folklore and local legend. The granite-built Church of St Mary, with origins in the Norman period and later medieval additions, stands at the heart of the village, while the old village stocks on the green are a reminder of Belstone's long-established community life.

Today, Belstone is renowned as one of the finest starting points for exploring northern Dartmoor. Walkers can climb Belstone Tor or neighbouring Cosdon Hill for sweeping views across the moor and, on clear days, as far as the North Devon coast. A stroll through Belstone Cleave follows the young River Taw through one of Dartmoor's most beautiful wooded valleys, while those interested in archaeology can visit the atmospheric Nine Maidens stone circle, steeped in folklore that tells of maidens turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath. Despite its tranquil setting, the village remains a thriving community with its historic church, traditional inn, village green and timeless granite cottages, making it an ideal place to experience the character and history of Dartmoor.