New Bridge Loop Route 6
Witness the best of Dartmoor valley
As well as vistas across a large sweep of southern Dartmoor, this route includes high-level views of the deeply eroded Dart Valley and a pleasing variety of moorland, woodland and riverside walking. It starts from 15th century New Bridge, originally built for teams of packhorses bearing Dartmoor tin and wool to Ashburton, then climbs high above the steeply wooded Dart Valley. It runs parallel to the river, via Dr Blackall’s Drive, which the thoughtful doctor built as a carriage drive for his invalid wife so that she could enjoy the views and the constant sound of the river as it rushes and gurgles 200m below.
From Mel Tor and Bel Tor Corner a medley of tors ring the horizon, with Rippon Tor, Bonehill Rocks, Hameldown and Sharp Tor most prominent. Descending to Ponsworthy and Lower Town, we divert to Poundsgate with its granite and thatch cottages and the medieval Tavistock Inn, which numbers Satan among its customers. The Prince of Darkness is said to have dropped in one Sunday in 1638 en route to strike Widecombe church with a thunderbolt. The ale sizzled in his throat, he paid his bill with notes that turned to withered leaves and left scorch marks on the bar… so they say.