Dartmoor’s Ancient Field Boundaries: A 13-mile Guided Run

Over the course of around 4 hours, we will make frequent short stops where you’ll learn about their ancient origins, rich biodiversity, and traditional management.

From Newbridge, we will run up the River Dart to Bench Tor and then on to Combestone Tor, where refreshments will be waiting for us. We’ll pass through Bronze Age field systems and then, as we climb to Ryder’s Hill, the highest point on South Dartmoor, we’ll pass ancient tin workings and hut circles.

From here, we’ll descend towards Scorriton, with medieval field systems on either side, and see examples of recently laid and trimmed hedges. We’ll then continue through the village of Holne before dropping back into the Dart Valley for a picnic and swim in the river.

As well as an understanding of the origins and history of Dartmoor’s field boundaries, you also gain knowledge of what makes hedges so valuable for wildlife, what the current threats are to these incredible structures, and how they can be preserved for the future.

The run is 13 miles (21 km) with 2,230 ft (680 m) of ascent. You will need trail shoes, experience of running on uneven ground, and sufficient fitness to complete a half marathon in under 4 hours. If this sounds like too much for you, try our 3-mile walk on the 8th of August or our Autumn Hedge Tour in November.

Even on a beautfiful day in the middle of Summer, the weather on Dartmoor can be very fickle. The kit list below is mandatory:

1. Trail shoes
2. Runnning bag
3. Warm top
4. Waterproof jacket
5. Hat or buff
6. Foil blanket
7. Personal first aid kit
8. Fully charge mobile phone
9. Emergency food
10. Water

Parking:

The car park at Newbridge costs £5.60 for a day. The meter takes card payments or Ringo but not cash. There are some free spaces on the other side of the bridge but don't count on getting one! Please share lifts if possible.