Princetown to Nun’s Cross Walk

This is an 8 km (5 mile) out-and-back from Princetown to Nun’s Cross and back along the same public bridleway, crossing open moor via South Hessary Tor. It is a steady moorland walk with a clear destination and big-sky views, rather than a summit scramble or a loop. Allow about 2 to 2.5 hours for the full route at an unhurried pace. On clear days, distant views reach Plymouth Sound.

Leave Princetown car park behind the Old Duchy Hotel, cross the B3212 and take the tarmac lane beside The Plume of Feathers. After roughly 40 metres, follow the public-bridleway sign onto gravel; pass a pedestrian gate, then another about 300 metres later. Stay on the bridleway across grass, heather and peatland, passing South Hessary Tor before reaching Nun’s Cross. This is the direct out-and-back: turn around at the wayside cross and retrace your steps. Longer circular walks add Nun’s Cross Farm and Peat Cot; they are different routes, not part of this five-mile outing.

The moor’s open character is maintained by cattle, ponies and sheep grazing. Grass, heather, blanket bogs and valley mires support skylarks, meadow pipits, common lizards and fox moth caterpillars. At the cross, frame the stone marker with the gravel track and open moor so the landscape is part of the picture.

This is a Miles Without Stiles route, classified “For Most” with access category 2/3, but it is not a smooth paved path. Gravel, inclines, granite cross drains and a small clapper bridge make the surface uneven; check the category against your mobility aid before setting out. The high, open moor is exposed and can be cold and windy. Dogs are allowed on a lead. Toilets are by the car park, with pubs and cafés in Princetown. If five miles is too much, turn back at South Hessary Tor for the official 3 km (about 1.9 mile) return option.