THE seven mile Steeperton Tor walk that starts from Belstone and Ernest Bassett in Okehampton has been listed as one of the top ten winter walks in the county.

Visit Devon has compiled a guide of the top walks in the county showcasing the natural beauty Devon has to offer visitors and residents alike. The list has also been devised to encourage people to take walks with loved ones in the run up to Christmas.

Devised by a keen Dartmoor walker and founder member of the Dartmoor Rescue Group, the Ernest Bassett walk is intended as an easy introduction to the area's natural attractions.

Beginning in Okehampton, the walk covers the historic architecture and an old waterwheel before continuing along paths, fields and through woodlands, leading to the East Okement River.

The scenic route passes by small waterfalls and still pools, before continuing in a climb to East Hill where, on a clear day, walkers will see fantastic views across to Exmoor and an almost aerial view of Okehampton before returning to the town.

For those walkers who like a more challenging route, Steeperton Tor walk starting from Belstone is a route into the high ground with a few boulders along the way.

Walkers will climb past the waterfalls and rapids of the River Taw, Oketor and Belstone Tor, before heading back over Belstone Common and back to the village of Belstone.

Other walks that made the list include the Plym Valley Trail, the Mamhead Sensory Trail near Exeter and the South West Coast Path at Bolberry Down.

For more information on these walks and others throughout Devon visit http://www.visitdevon.co.uk">www.visitdevon.co.uk