East Dart River

The East Dart River rises on high Dartmoor west of Whitehorse Hill, close to Cranmere Pool. From its source it travels south for about nine kilometres before bending east and then north-east between slopes covered with scattered boulders. Near Postbridge the river falls two metres in a short stretch known as Waterfall. After Postbridge it turns south again, passing the hamlet of Bellever on its way to Dartmeet. The river is one of the two main branches that form the River Dart. Its course shows how water shapes the moor, carving gentle valleys and small cascades. The landscape around the East Dart includes open heather moorland and scattered farmsteads. Postbridge’s clapper bridge stands where the river has long been crossed. Visitors follow paths along the riverbank or climb to viewpoints on the surrounding slopes. The clitter-strewn hills give way to wooded sections near Dartmeet. Here the East Dart meets the West Dart to become the main River Dart. The contrast between open moor and sheltered wooded valley makes the walk memorable.