Haytor is arguably Dartmoor most iconic and popular location, located in the South eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park the Tors (granite outcrops) here were formed over 280 million years ago and are visible for miles around in every location. It’s even just a short (but steep) walk from the National Park Visitor Centre. But we weren’t here for Dartmoor’s main attraction, no, no, were here to visit it’s lesser known but still stunningly beautiful next door neighbour, Haytor Quarry.

The history of Haytor Quarry is fascinating, this area has been inhabited for thousands of years and in 1820 they opened a tramway which would lead to the increased production of granite from the quarry. The high quality granite was transported from its source through Bovey Tracey, Stover Country Park, Newton Abbot before following the River Teign and reaching the docks at the seaside town of Teignmouth from here it was transported all over the country, it was even used for the construction of London Bridge in 1831, the bridge was eventually replaced in the 1960’s due to the demands of modern traffic and sold by the City of London to and relocated to Arizona, USA. The quarry was later closed as it was unable to compete with Cornwall’s cheaper granite.

It was mid October when we visited, we made use of the parking at the National Park Visitor Centre which is perfectly located. As we crossed the road towards Haytor we followed the well trodden path to the right of Haytor Rocks. There is a slight incline but not as steep as the paths leading to the iconic rocks. The quarry has two gated entrances to prevent wildlife from any danger and we continued to right of the quarry to enter through entrance furthest away. The path here cuts between the landscape and leads through the gate, once through we then head down the path which reveals the stunning water pool within the quarry. On a calm autumn day the tones of the landscape are beautifully reflected in the water, the high sides of the quarry help to shelter it from Dartmoor strong winds. We climbed some rocks to the left of the quarry and soaked in the stunning atmosphere here before returning to the path which loops around the right hand side of the water pool at the other end of the water there is more space surrounding the water and was even a couple of families enjoying picnics (We however had different plans for lunch). We left the quarry via the other gate and headed down hill back towards the National Park Visitor Centre. The whole walk only takes about 60-90 mins. We took it very leisurely and enjoyed spending sometime in the quarry too.

After our walk it was time for the reward, just over a mile away from Haytor along the B3387 descending towards Bovey Tracey is the amazing Ullacombe Farm Shop & Cafe. We had heard good things about Ullacombe but had never visited until today when we couldn’t resist any longer. We were tempted in with the intriguing ‘Twisted Afternoon Tea’, as one lock down lifted and the nation waited for news of a Chirstmas lockdown Ullacombe brought forward a Christmas themed ‘Twisted Afternoon Tea’ and my god it was sensational. Made up of turkey, stuffing and cranberry sandwiches, pigs in blankets, halloumi wrapped in bacon, mince pies, halloumi fries, mini scones with cream and jam and a chocolate fondue it was just incredible. I promise this isn’t an advert but if you’re in the area then this is highly recommended.

Walk Location: National Visitors Centre, Haytor Vale.
Car Park Postcode: TQ13 9XT / Charges Apply: £1 = 3 Hours, £2 = Over 3 Hours.

Ullacombe Farm: Haytor Road, Bovey Tracey, TQ13 9LL
https://www.ullacombefarm.co.uk/