Dartmoor

Dartmoor is a National Park in the centre of the English county of Devon. It covers 368 square miles (953 km²).

Rivers

The levels of rainfall on Dartmoor are considerably higher than in the surrounding lowlands. With much of the national park covered in thick layers of peat, the rain is readily absorbed, and is usually distributed slowly, so that the moor is rarely dry.

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As a result, there are numerous rivers and streams. These have played a key role in shaping the ancient landscape, and have also provided a vital source of power to the traditional industries on the moor - especially tin mining and quarrying.

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After prolonged periods of rain, a sudden, heavy shower can lead to a severe surge in water levels, transforming even a small stream into a dangerous torrent - impassable to walkers.

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The best known river is clearly the River Dart, which is divided into the East Dart and West Dart, until they join at Dartmeet. Other significant rivers which rise within the national park include:

Related Topics:
River Dart - Dartmeet

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• Ashburn
• Avon
• Bovey
• East Okement
• East Webburn
• Erme
• Lemon
• Lyd
• Meavy
• Plym
• Tavy
• Taw
• Teign
• Walkham
• West Okement
• West Webburn
• Yealm