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Garrow Tor
Garrow Tor DSC 7073.jpg
On Garrow Tor
Highest point
Elevation 330 m (1,080 ft)
Prominence 57 m (187 ft)
Listing TuMP
Geography
Location Bodmin Moor, England
OS grid SX145780
Topo map OS Landranger 200, Explorer 109
Geology
Mountain type granite tor

Garrow Tor is a fascinating hill located in the beautiful Bodmin Moor area of Cornwall, England. It stands at 330 meters (about 1,083 feet) high. This special place is known for its rocky top, called a "tor," and its rich history.

From the summit of Garrow Tor, you can see amazing views. It's a great spot to learn about ancient times and enjoy nature.

Discover Garrow Tor: A Cornish Hilltop

Garrow Tor is more than just a hill; it's a natural landmark with a story. It sits on Garrow Downs in the northwest part of Bodmin Moor. This area is famous for its wild landscapes and ancient sites.

What Makes Garrow Tor Special?

A "tor" is a large, free-standing rock outcrop that forms on top of a hill. Garrow Tor's summit is covered with these impressive granite rocks. These natural formations make the hill look unique and rugged.

Journey Through Time: Ancient Life on the Tor

Garrow Tor has been a home for people for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found many signs of early settlements here. These discoveries help us understand how people lived long ago.

Homes of the Past: Hut Circles and Stone Walls

Evidence shows that people lived on Garrow Tor during the Bronze Age. This period was about 4,500 to 3,000 years ago. You can still see the remains of hut circles, which were the foundations of ancient homes. There are also parts of a huge stone hedge. This wall likely marked off land or protected settlements. Later, people also lived here during the Medieval period, around 800 to 500 years ago.

Breathtaking Panoramas: Views from the Summit

Climbing to the top of Garrow Tor offers incredible rewards. You get a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. To the south, you can spot Caradon Hill. Looking north, you'll see the famous Rough Tor and Brown Willy. These are two of Cornwall's highest peaks. To the east is Butter's Tor. On a clear day, you can even see the "clay country" to the west and the vast Atlantic Ocean to the northwest!

Rivers and Legends: Exploring the Surroundings

The area around Garrow Tor is full of natural beauty and interesting places. A river flows nearby, adding to the peaceful scenery.

The De Lank River's Path

The De Lank River flows along the eastern side of Garrow Tor. It starts in the north and moves south. Then, it curves around the southern base of the hill. Rivers like this were vital for ancient communities, providing water for daily life.

King Arthur's Hall: A Nearby Mystery

Just about one kilometer (or half a mile) southwest of Garrow Tor lies King Arthur's Hall. This mysterious ancient monument is a large, rectangular enclosure. It has a stone bank and ditch, and inside, there are many stone pillars. Historians are still debating its exact purpose. It's a fascinating place to visit and imagine the legends of King Arthur!

Planning Your Visit to Garrow Tor

If you plan to explore Garrow Tor, there's a convenient place to park. You can find parking near the waterworks, which is located southwest of the hill. Remember to wear good walking shoes and bring water!

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