TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Aish Tor Despite the name there does not, at first, appear to be a tor here. Yet Hemery states; "First and last of the eastern cleave-side tors is Aish Tor (912 feet), a small pile on Newbridge Common near Brake Corner - where the drive divides to form a loop surrounding the tor on three sides - and something of an anti-climax..."  Many visit the highest point of this hill expecting to find the remnants of a ruined summit outcrop only to be met with a small cairn on a grassy patch surrounded by gorse.  But look to the north-eastern slopes of the hill and there is exposed metamorphic bedrock and large boulders that have come loose. Evidence points to Aish Tor being emergent, when stood at its upper reaches, rather than ruined, as the lower rocks would suggest.  Thanks go to Bob Fitzpatrick who rekindled interest in this section of the tor, that is part quarried at the lower end. It is indeed a disappointing site but splendid views are attainable, that are particularly concentrated towards the valley of the River Dart to the east by Holne Chase.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
