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Walkham ValleyThe Walkham valley is impressively obvious to all motorists who drive to Tavistock from Princetown. The valley is dominated by the Staple and Roos Tors on one side and Great Mis Tor on the other. The view epitomises the grandeur and isolation of Dartmoor whatever the weather conditions, but it also points to the unseen inner plateau of the north moor. This valley is an excellent way of walking into the moor and although the described walk only goes half way, the determined walker can follow the Walkham right up to the solitude of the upper head of the river and have a thoroughly good experience. As with many walks on Dartmoor this one mixes the old (Bronze Age settlements and stone circles) with the new (granite quarrying, leats and tin mills).Park at the roadside car park at SX 539750 and walk north up the slopes of Little Staple Tor. Bear round to the right and you'll find the empty course of the Longford leat. Walk along it until you get to the edge of the Shillapark enclosure and then descend down to the Walkham river crossing the running Sortridge leat as you go. On a river bend you'll find the remains of a blowing house, carry on and you'll get to the head weir of the Sortridge leat. Carry on up the valley and you'll see the remains of the Bronze Age settlement. Head directly north up the slope and you'll arrive at a diminutive stone circle. Then walk SW towards Roos Tor from where you'll head back towards Staple Tors and the car park.A straightforward walk of about 5 miles. No rough ground - but you do get isolated rather quickly. This is on the edge of the military areas. The Shillapark enclosure is out of bounds to walkers.
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