Dartmoor Tin Mining, where 'cassiterite' was mined and smelted to produce tin, is thought to have originated in pre and early Roman times. Early techniques consisted primarily of  Streaming, which involved the collecting the alluvial (tin/metail) deposits from river and stream beds where they had accumulated through natural erosion of the granite, over millions of years. Evidence of these 'streams' can be seen strewn across the Plym and many other Dartmoor valleys. 

Demand for tin grew to such an extent that after streaming deposits bacame exausted, open cast and then underground mining was developed. Today, there are extensive archaeological remains of these three phases of the industry, as well as of the several stages of processing that were necessary to convert the ore to tin metal, which involved being crushed, concentrated and then smelted. These remains include examples of mortar stones, circular buddles, leats to bring water to the sites and water wheels, open cast entrances, adits to access underground tunnels and so on.

By the 12th century, the industry had become so important to the area that miners developed their own set of 'stannary' laws and even their own parliaments, which were in force until the mid 19th century. It was only in the mid 20th century that the industry finally came to an end, when the last commercially worked mine, Golden Dagger, closed in November 1930. 

It is impossible to know what harsh conditions the tin miners worked in, especially in the early days, but just taking a walk round some of the remains in this remote and exposed landscape would give you an inkling. Or glance into one of the abandoned mine entrances to see how very cold, cramped, wet and dark they would have been, not to mention dangerous.

For more information on this fascinating part of Dartmoor's history, click here

Eylesbarrow overlooks the valley of the River Plym, on the south west edge of Dartmoor, south of Yelverton. The remains of this tin mine, which dates back to the 12th century, are strewn over a considerable area and include the core part of the mine, together with adjacent tin streamworks and earlier mining remains.  

It was clearly once a large and important mine, with 25 shaftheads and 4 adits still visible at the site, with spoil heaps nearby. Other evidence of this is the leat, resevoir, waterwheel and wheelpits. 

The site is easily accessed from Gutter Tor car park, PL20 6PG.

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This Grade ll listed building is near Sheepstor on the south west edge of Dartmoor. Its fascinating history dates back the mid 15th century, when it was originally built for the keeper of the rabbit warren.  The current building dates back to the 19th century, although the outbuildings may date back further.

The isolated situation made it the perfect filming location for the Steven Spielberg film, War Horse, in 2010.

The house was originally built for the keeper of Ditsworthy Warren, where rabbits were commercially bred and kept for their meat and fur. They lived in 'pillow mounds', long cigar-shaped structures in the area built of stone and covered with earth, in which the rabbits could burrow and live. There are 53 of these mounds, making it the largest rabbit warren in England, and also a 'Kennel Court', where the warren dogs were kept. 

If you'd like to explore this site, which is only be accessed by foot, the best option is to drive to Gutter Tor car park and from there it is a 1 mile walk down a track to the property. The postcode for the car park is PL20 6PG. Eylesbarrow Tin Mine remains are also nearby, just to the north east of the property.

Grimspound is one of Dartmoor’s most iconic sites, partly due its sheer size when compared to similar remains.  A settlement dating to the Middle Bronze Age around 1,500BC, it consists of a massive stone enclosure, containing a group of small hut circles, which are the remnants of Bronze Age houses.  Looking west from the site, the remains of medieval ploughing is visible on the flanks of Challacombe Down. 

Near Postbridge, it is easy to get to the site when taking the B3212 across the moor, either from Tavistock in the west or from Moretonhampstead.

A very popular Dartmoor village destination in its own right, with a Dartmoor National Park Information Centre, Postbridge is perhaps best known for its fine example of an ancient clapper bridge over the East Dart river. It is believed to date back to the 13th century, being built to enable pack horses to cross the river when carrying tin to the stannary town of Tavistock. 

If visiting this landmark, don't miss out on the  Thunder & Lightning ice cream, homemade in the village shop!

Spinsters' Rock is a Neolithic dolmen (burial chamber) erected around 3500-2500 BC. The chamber, which consists of 3 granite supports and topped by a capstone, probably contained many burials and would originally have been covered by a long earthen mound. It is situated on Shilstone Farm west of near Drewsteignton, near Chagford.

It is so called because legend has it that the monument was erected by three spinsters, before breakfast! 

Situated just to the west of Dartmoor, Tavistock is a very attractive and popular town, with a great history which can be seen from the beautiful old town buildings.  There are a great selection of small independent stores and a wonderful pannier market, which is excellent on a rainy day, as it is under cover! It is surrounded by numerous cafes, which makes it a lovely place to take a break.

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Our local town just over the border in Cornwall, Launceston is the ancient capital of Cornwall, with a Norman castle, attractions and activities, a wealth of local events and festivals. It is well known for independent shops, including local food producers, shops selling unique crafts and gifts.

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This beautiful cathedral city, situated to the north of Dartmoor winding along the river Exe, is 35 minutes east along the A30.  If shopping is your interest, there are numerous shopping destinations, with the Princesshay Shopping Centre the main one in the city centre. 

Dating back to the Roman era, there are a wealth of historical and cultural sites to be explored, including the medieval underground passages. Definitely recommended as a day trip rather than a short visit as there is so much to see.

Although an hour’s drive due to the roads winding their way to the south coast, there are plenty of places to explore in this historic naval city and port. In addition to its maritime history, it is well known for the Barbican district, with its narrow, cobbled streets. The harbour has several marinas and fish market, the Plymouth Fisheries. The Mayflower Steps are where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for the New World in 1620 and Sutton Harbour is home to the National Marine Aquarium. 

Once again, a day trip rather than a short stop is required for this city.

This small fishing village is one of Cornwall's most well known and popular destinations, lying on a stunning stretch of coastline midway between Polzeath andTintagel. Much of the coastline and surrounding countryside is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Port Isaac was a busy coastal port from the Middle Ages to the mid 19th century when it was an active harbour. Fishing was also important and still is to this day, although it is increasingly popular with tour as the film location of the much loved long running drama Doc Martin.

Clovelly is a very pretty harbour village on the north coast of Devon, about an hour's drive from the Cottage. There is a lovely walk from the main car park down a steep pedestrianised cobbled main street winding down to a small cove and harbour below. With only sledges for transportation due to the narrowness and sharp incline, this is a unique place to visit. 

There are several places to eat and splendid views over the Bristol Channel. There are also donkey stables open to the public near the car park. 

This charming Devon village is certainly worth the journey. For further information, click here