TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Hawthorn ClitterHewthorn Clitter, Hew Thorn Clitter
 Marked on modern-day OS maps, this clitter, covering a large area, can be found some distance to the south of the well renowned Watern Tor. This area, in general, is a lovely spot of isolation which isn't too difficult to reach from the path skirting the edge of Manga Hill to the south. Access is perhaps best from the north side where there is a stile in the corner of the wall at SX 63117 86489.  The rocks here are likely some of the remnants of a larger Watern Tor, possessing stunning views across to Kestor Rock and the upper reaches of the Hugh Lake valley (a lake on Dartmoor meaning a 'small stream'), where it begins to form a deepening gorge below Manga Rock.  The name of the clitter may, to some, instantly suggest an abundance of hawthorn trees thriving in the vicinity; however, this is not the case. The name is most certainly derived from 'Hew' or 'Hugh' - the appellation used by Crossing in his 'Guide to Dartmoor' - the pronunciation of 'Haw' sounding quite similar to it. He says nothing about the clitter itself, nor does Hemery, which can be described as quite bizarre as the rocks at this spot (SX 63191 86228) are roughly located on the boundary line for the parishes of both Gidleigh and Dartmoor Forest, in the latter of which the best part of this rock-field can be found. 
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