TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Gladstone Rock Set in a small wooded area on a rounded hill to the east of the track leading to Hawkmoor from the road above Slade Cross, this Rock presents as a large outcrop that is enshrouded in vegetation. It was probably named after Victorian Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone given the large Victorian presence in the nearby Wray Valley area around Lustleigh, and the nearby farm therefore also inherited this name, although there is little documentary evidence to confirm this.  Gladstone Rock is on private land but there are no barriers and it can be accessed from the path that runs west of it, although please observe any signage should it be in evidence. Glimpses of the Rock can be had from the public footpath below in winter, but these are limited. Ken Ringwood (2013) is one of the few writers to comment on the tor here where he states that it is "One pronounced outcrop of well jointed granite, with a little clitter."  On its north-eastern side, beside a wall and open field, you get the best view of what is essentially a larger outcrop than first realised topped with trees and obscured in part by climbing ivy on the edge of the copse. At close-quarters the crumbling granite really is quite impressive, at whatever view you can obtain! 
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