Walk: Beltane at Bellever with Emma Cunis
Monday 1st May, 09:00 – 13:00, Dunnabridge
For many years, there was a tradition on Dartmoor, known as ‘Bellever Day’ on the first Friday in May. Thousands of people would cross the moor on foot, horseback, and in wagonettes to gather at Bellever Tor. Here there were picnics, racing and revelling, to welcome the start of summer.
Join Dartmoor’s Daughter in the footsteps of the revellers, for a circular walk rich in history and beauty, hearing intriguing tales along the way of seasonal festivals, ancient gods, and mischievous pixies. Our journey takes in a Bronze Age standing stone and stone row; several dramatic tors, including Laugh Tor, Blackator, and Bellever; copper-gold-coloured waters of the River Dart; and the fascinating Dunnabridge Pound with its Judge’s Chair. Revelling is optional!
Emma Cunis is an Dartmoor Guide leading walks, talks, tours and nature-connection experiences to encourage learning, exploration, enjoyment and care for this extraordinary living, working landscape. She is the author of Dartmoor Myths and Legends: Exploring origins and inspirations.
TICKETS £27 KEY INFORMATION BELOW
Photos: courtesy Emma Cunis
Meeting place: Dunnabridge car park on B3357 between Two Bridges and Dartmeet; OS coordinates SX64179 74632 Google pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hDmH8A2U9UnzrSEq6 What3Words: leathers.wishing.rocky
Who: the walk is suitable for adults only
Time: 09:00 please arrive 15 minutes before, the walk will start promptly at 09:00
Length: 10 km
Terrain: approximately 10 km on hilly and open moorland. Wear sturdy walking boots, bring warm layers, sunscreen, waterproofs, food and drink. Route is dependent on weather conditions and group pace.
Driving directions/any final details will be emailed approximately a week before the walk; please remember to check your junk email folder.
Please car share where possible. Parking is limited on Dartmoor and sharing lessens our impact on the environment. Thank you.
Price: £25 per adult + £2 booking fee. Group size is limited so pre-booking is essential.
Dogs – by arrangement only.