Exploring Shaugh Bridge

Sun shining through ancient oak woodland with footpath, Shaugh Bridge, Dartmoor, Devon — Autumnal sun shining through the ancient oak woodland at Shaugh Bridge, Dartmoor, Devon | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Discover ancient oak-wooded valleys on the south west corner of Dartmoor. Walk along the River Meavy or explore the upper Plym Valley with its dramatic Dewerstone Rock and industrial ruins.

Explore an historic landscape

This landscape of woodland and granite crags has been shaped by many hundreds of years of activity.

Spot the remains of a 19th century iron mine, quarry tramway and brick kiln as well as evidence of charcoal burning.

There are also enclosures, the stone ramparts of a prehistoric fort and hut circles spread across the open moorland.

Delve into a temperate rainforest

The area around Shaugh Bridge is nationally important for plants and wildlife. The ancient oak woodland is part of the UKs rare temperate rainforest habitat.

The high humidity and low temperature range create the perfect conditions for moisture-loving lichens, mosses and liverworts.

Head out for a walk

Take in views of rocky crags, ancient woodland and fast flowing rivers on a walk from Shaugh Bridge, the meeting point of the Rivers Plym and Meavy. 

Rising up from the River Plym you'll see the 160m high outcrop of granite, known as the Dewerstone.

This rock face is well used by climbers with over 100 routes, and a good variety of grades to suit different climbing abilities.

River running under Shaugh Bridge with mossy boulders around the water and trees either side

Discover more at Shaugh Bridge

Find out how to get to Shaugh Bridge, where to park, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

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