TORS OF DARTMOOR
a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops
Maiden Tor Below the giant and sprawling hulk of Sheeps Tor on its western side are the three low lying piles of Maiden Tor, a name first introduced by Eric Hemery (1983). The highest but smallest of the outcrops possesses a summit rock with two adjacent rock basins, the largest of which is oval in shape. Lower and further west the moderate central pile consists of large rounded and closely grouped rocks that form small caves and low twisting alleyways. Close to this pile on the summit plateau, a windswept hawthorn once stood but it succumbed long ago to the strong winds that sweep across the tor from the west, its stump still visible, lying close to one of the Plymouth Corporation Water Works (PCWW) stones that encircle the hill.  The lowest part of the tor is without doubt the most substantial, where two sets of huge boulders lie above the leafy Joey's Lane, the highest of which forms a small rock face that is crowned by a large slab. A curious oblong rock resting on its side is also a feature of the lower group, it sits on the edge of a heavy clitter that stretches to the Moorgate. Between the second and third piles of the tor a huge pillow mound can be found, it is suggested by Hemery that this is one of several here that were used for breeding rabbits for sport at the end of the First World War c1918.  Set above enclosure walls the higher parts of Maiden Tor overlook to the south and west the sleepy village of Sheepstor and to the north Peek Hill is visible, there are also fine views of the Burrator Reservoir lake to the west. 
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