TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Torrs Wood Tor Perhaps one of the most unlikeliest places to find a small tor is on a golf course but that is exactly what we have on the slopes above the hamlet of Wrangaton on South Dartmoor. Of unique design, the golf course is split into two distinct halves: the upper and more rugged nine holes set on the undulating terrain beneath the dome of Ugborough Beacon were laid out in 1895 making it one of Devon's oldest. The land was donated by the Misses Elizabeth and Beatrice Carew having been inherited by them upon the death of their Father, Sir Walter Palk Carew, a well known local landowner. The landscaped lower nine was opened in 1991 and offers a more sheltered parkland experience that is very different from that set on high.  The allure of the course is perfectly summarised by Links Golf: "Perched on the edge of Dartmoor, Wrangaton Golf Club presents a unique golfing experience that feels almost like two distinct journeys melded into one. With its 18 holes divided between the wild moorland and the verdant parkland, this members' club is a treasure trove for golf enthusiasts seeking diversity and challenge in every round. As you embark on the first nine holes, you're greeted by the expansive views of Devon's lush countryside, extending towards the coastline and the sea, a mere 10 miles in the distance. This moorland stretch, devoid of trees and bunkers, relies on its winding streams and the natural undulations of the land to test your game. It's not uncommon to find yourself sharing these fairways with the local sheep and Dartmoor ponies, adding an extra layer of charm to the course."  Above and to the right of the 14th fairway which off the competition tees is a tricky 205 yard par 3, is a grove of mostly oak trees at the most southerly edge of what is known as Torrs Wood. Hidden away and lost inside this section are two small compact outcrops that are indicative of a once much larger pile here, the substance of which may have been disturbed during the build of the lower course, although much of the Wood seems to have been sympathetically circumnavigated. Other odd shaped rocks are scattered across the slopes but have a somewhat different geology to the main outcrops.  The name of the Wood suggests that more might have once existed here. Another feature is a magnificent carpet of bluebells that is seen at its best from early to mid May. Set on private land, access to the small tor was previously only possible to members of the golf club - many of whom would have had little or no knowledge of its existence as they sought to par or better this attractive but very challenging hole - but in the Autumn of 2023 all that changed due to financial constraints and the golf club sadly ceased operations. Whilst its future remains unclear at the time of writing (June 2024) it is hoped that it will reopen as a club, celebrating its unique location and serene Dartmoor setting that was much loved by the South Devon golfing fraternity. Please be advised that access to the lower half is currently prohibited and Torrs Wood to use a golfing term is out of bounds.
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