Black Tor
With splendid views over the Meavy Valley
With splendid views of the upper Meavy Valley and being accessible from the road, Black Tor is a splendid tor to visit. It is best-known for its logan stone which is basically where a granite boulder has, over time, become loose from its base causing it to tremble under pressure. The Black Tor example is very well-known and a particularly fine example that leans to the west. Below this is the main part of the tor, a large, blocky granite outcrop that overlooks the field systems of Stanlake Farm. You will also see the Devonport Leat tumbling down Raddick Hill before it crosses the River Meavy on an aqueduct; this leat was originally constructed to feed the rapidly growing city of Plymouth.
The tor is located above the River Meavy, one of the rivers that feed Burrator Reservoir. In addition to the remains of a blowing house and a double stone row across the valley beneath the opposing Hart Tor, where the valley steepens can be found Black Tor Falls, a secluded beauty spot that is often sheltered from the wind and a haven for photographers. This is just a short distance below Black Tor and both places are worth visiting when in the area.
Max Piper – www.torsofdartmoor.co.uk