The background
The River Taw is one of Devon’s largest rivers, travelling through beautiful rolling countryside into the Bristol Channel. Join us in exploring the river.
Starting in the beautiful village of Belstone – one of Dartmoor’s highest villages – you’ll explore a circular route. Passing majestic granite tors – pausing for a moment at a Bronze Age cairn circle with the legend of dancing maidens turned to stone – you’ll hear how the River Taw inspired ‘Tarka the Otter’ as you wander along its pretty bank. Depending on your pace and interest, there are two rivers and three possible swim spots on this walk, so lots of opportunities for a (refreshing) swim once or more!
This moorland walk gives a taste of the wild Dartmoor that poet Ted Hughes knew, loved, and was inspired by. Ted Hughes found solace and happiness on Dartmoor in his later years with his favourite spot being near Taw Head where the Taw, Dart, East Okement, and Teign rivers rise.
As you head back to Belstone you’ll have immense views out over North Devon – landscapes through which the River Taw makes its onward journey.
Suitable for
This adventure is perfect for individuals and small groups and families with children. For those with younger children we can just scale down the level of activity.
Time of the year
We run this experience in any season and it is available as a half day or a full day activity. However, swimming in the cooler months will depend on your level of experience in cold water swimming.
Charity
We make a donation per booking to Moor Trees – an independent charity dedicated to restoring native woodland on Dartmoor and in South Devon.
Bespoke experiences
We can arrange our Wild Taw on a bespoke basis for your group and can adapt based on your preferences.
Group Size
This experience has a minimum group size of one. For group sizes larger than six, please get in touch.
What to bring
Sturdy shoes with grip – trainers / walking boots are fine, waterproof jacket and trousers (whatever the forecast), jumper/sweater/warm layers including a woolly hat and gloves at either end of the season, a shortie wetsuit and booties, a towel, drinks and a snack or lunch depending on the length of the experience.
Dartmoor's Daughter
Our Wild Taw experience is run in partnership with Emma Cunis – founder of Dartmoor’s Daughter. Dartmoor has been home to Emma’s family for generations and she’ll bring her genuine love for the area into the experiences – all immersive that invite you to have a deeper connection with Dartmoor’s land and communities.
Experience Location
This experience starts at Belstone car park. Parking is currently free. Alternatively, travel on the Dartmoor Line and extend your experience by walking up to Belstone from Okehampton Railway Station.
Booking this Experience
This experience has a minimum group size of one. If you would like to arrange for a group larger than six, then please let us know. The cost of this experience is to be confirmed for 2024.
To arrange your experience please get in touch using the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. If you would like to arrange this experience for a group larger than six, then contact us to discuss.