TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Canonteign Falls Rock Canonteign Falls is one of the most popular attractions on Dartmoor and a visit to the top of the spectacular 70-metre high waterfall is a goal that most visitors want to experience. This can be achieved by leaving the Victorian Fern Garden where, to your left, you come to a vertical wall of rock that, when rounded, shows a tunnel entrance for the Canonteign Leat that passes through the very heart of the rock before tumbling over the hillside.  A small bridge by the tunnel gains the visitor access to the most impressive part of the Rock which when viewed at close-quarters on the south side reveals a huge rock face possessing few jointings. It is of some magnitude but quite hard to capture in a single photograph and perambulating it is impossible thanks to the sheer drop on the north edge.  The present-day falls were created in 1880 under the instruction of Lady Susan Exmouth and water was diverted via a leat channel through the huge summit rock to create the magnificent cataract. The Rock is actually a compact tor of non-granite rock that perches atop this lofty viewpoint which is colloquially called 'Buzzard's View' on account of the impressive eastward view out to the rolling hills of Haldon which unfold before you. 
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