Taw Marsh

Taw Marsh (SX 617910) is a good example of a Dartmoor marsh. It lies to the south of Belstone village and consists of a natural amphitheatre through which the river Taw slowly meanders before escaping down the valley past Belstone towards Sticklepath. The marsh is surrounded by the impressive hills of Cosdon, Metheral and Belstone while Steeperton Tor (532m) marks where the Taw stream hurtles down the valley to get to the marsh plain.

Taw Marsh is quite easy to walk to. It is a favourite Sunday afternoon walk for all the family. Park at Belstone village (SX 620932) and take the track out of the village heading southwards. It is possible to take a number of routes around the marsh. The one described here involves little climbing and takes about 2 - 2.5 hours.

Taw Marsh lies near to the Army firing range. If any red flags are flying then don't climb up towards Oke Tor.

	This is part of Belstone Green at SX 620932. The road leads southwards to Taw Marsh.
	We are approaching the marsh. In the distance lies the peak of Steeperton Tor.
	We can just see the marsh now as we head over the rise. There's a bit of snow on Steeperton Tor. On its left lies the rounded curve of Metheral Hill, while on the right can be seen the ramparts of Oke Tor on the skyline.
	This is Belstone Tor with the Irishman's wall snaking up the hillside.
	We are now on the marsh plain at SX 617910. Steeperton Tor lies due south whereas on the right you can just see Oke Tor.
	Looking back over Taw Marsh as we ascend the hillside making for Oke Tor. On the right you can see Cosdon Hill.
	On the path next to Oke Tor looking southwards towards Steeperton Tor. Hangingstone Hill lies on the horizon, above which are low grey clouds.
	Oke Tor - SX 612900 and 466m high.
	Winter Tor - SX 610916. On the skyline you can see Yes Tor (on the left) and West Mill Tor (on the right).
	Higher Tor and Belstone Tor.
	The Nine Maidens circle on Watchet Hill at SX 613928. In the distance lie West Mill Tor and Yes Tor.
	Approaching Belstone village from Watchet Hill.