TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Holystreet Manor Cliff Face This unassuming cliff face beside the quiet lane to Gidleigh Park is interesting on account of its geology. Although it is entirely composed of granite, the consistency is crumbly and has been used to facilitate the building of the retaining wall; there is no doubt that prior to the lane's existence the rock was much larger, but not exposed like it is today.  The cliff is believed to be part of an elongated ridge of rock that extends northward into the private grounds of Holy Street Wood, and only from below to the east do you get an incentive that there are further rocks up in the trees, but these are inaccessible without prior permission from the landowner.  Holystreet Manor, from which the cliff face is named, is a captivatingly magnificent manor house that is best admired from the approach from the east, its towering walls and refined design adding a distinct contrast to the wooded landscape. John Hayward (1991), in Dartmoor 365, explains that "The guide book to Chagford says that the curious name of this manor house has no connection with the holy street, but is derived from an Anglo-Saxon term meaning "a tongue of land in a hollow"." He continues: "The core of the building dates from the 15th century, but it was considerably enlarged in the early years of this century."  The cliff face at Holystreet is despite its modest size nonetheless worthy of inspection, and along with it you will be able to marvel at some sophisticated Dartmoor architecture.
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