Sheepstor is a small but striking granite tor located on the southwestern edge of Dartmoor. Rising to about 369 metres (1,211 feet), it is nestled within a landscape steeped in history, natural beauty, and moorland charm. Unlike some of Dartmoor’s more exposed tors, Sheepstor area is partially cloaked by woodland, particularly on its eastern slopes, adding a distinctive atmosphere of seclusion and quiet mystery.

The tor overlooks Burrator Reservoir, which was completed in the late 19th century to supply water to Plymouth. The reservoir, framed by the rising tors, is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers, with Sheepstor offering one of the best vantage points to take in its reflective waters and the surrounding moorland scenery.

Sheepstor village, lying just below the tor, is tiny but rich in character. The 15th-century Church of St Leonard stands at its heart, with granite tombs and a timeless stillness that evoke the deep history of the area. The village and tor together encapsulate the quiet rural life that Dartmoor preserves so well.

Geologically, Sheepstor is composed of granite, part of the vast igneous intrusion that formed Dartmoor. The tor’s characteristic blocky outcrops are the result of millennia of weathering and erosion, typical of Dartmoor’s rugged landscape.

Sheepstor is also associated with legends and folklore, like much of Dartmoor. Tales of pixies, ghosts, and ancient rituals are part of the cultural fabric of the area, adding a layer of myth to its already captivating natural setting.

Whether for a brisk climb, a peaceful walk through wooded trails, or a moment of reflection overlooking the reservoir, Sheepstor offers a quintessential Dartmoor experience that combines nature, history, and mystery in equal measure.