TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Blackingstone RockBlackstone Rock, Blackeystone Rock, Blackystone Rock, Blackystone Tor
 Blackingstone Rock is a gigantic outcrop of rock that is visible from afar. Also known locally as 'Blackystone', a series of steps have been cut in the granite to afford access to the dizzy summit where several rock basins have formed in the flat surface. The Rock is shown on OS maps.  Naturally, a significant site such as this has its legends. William Crossing, in his Guide to Dartmoor, tells us; "Like Hel Tor, it is seen for many miles round, but according to tradition there was a time when these tors were not to be seen at all. This tells us that on the hills on which they are placed King Arthur and the Evil One once took their stand and threw quoits at each other, an encounter in which the latter was defeated. As the quoits fell they became changed into rocks, and thus the masses that we now look upon were formed."  In 1981, Dartmoor National Park Authority purchased the land, securing access for the public. Stepping onto the granite shelf before the staircase to the top, look out for an engraving celebrating the 60th anniversary of the National Park. The inscription reads; "D.N.P, 60, 1951-2011." 
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