Grimspound

The most significant and well known early settlement on Dartmoor is the Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound. The settlement can be seen in its entirety from the adjacent Hookney Tor. The site itself consists essentially of a walled enclosure of a little over four acres in area containing the remains of many dwellings which take the form of circles of granite boulders known as hut circles or round houses. It nestles between the high points of Hookney Tor and Hameldown Tor, given the open nature of the landscape it is likely that a farming community once thrived here.

It is generally regarded as having been built in the middle bronze age, about 3,000 years ago based on pottery found at the site. However, the site may well have been in use in much earlier times and the inhabitants normally credited with its construction may simply have moved in to an existing site. There are remains of early tin mining activity still to be seen in the valley below Grimspound, and the miners may also have used the site- around 1000 years ago. Grimspound is a tangible link between the moor, and the people who once lived and worked in its harsh conditions- an interesting site.

All year, but not recommended in poor visibility weather
Facilities include Visitor Centre and walks.
Cycleway and walkway not available. Bus route available but requires short walk.
The settlement can be seen in its entirety from the adjacent Hookney Tor and the hilltop gives the visitor the best views of the whole area.

Opening Times

Open All Year

2008 01/01/2008 - 31/12/2008