Explore the Best Walks in Dartmoor, Devon
Dartmoor, Devon offers a spectacular landscape perfect for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Discover the top walking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty and rich history.
Breathtaking Scenery and Tranquil Trails
Experience Dartmoor's diverse terrain with walks ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Each trail promises stunning views of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and expansive moorlands.
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Princetown Railway Walk
The Princetown Railway Walk offers a fascinating mix of moorland scenery and historical intrigue. Following the disused Princetown Railway line, this trail starts in Princetown – the highest town on Dartmoor – and runs toward Burrator Reservoir.
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Distance: Up to 9 miles (return)
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Highlights: Wide moorland views, remains of the old railway, Dartmoor Prison
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Accessibility: Fairly level trail, ideal for longer walks or cycling
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Best for: History and open landscapes
This walk provides uninterrupted views of Dartmoor’s vast landscapes and is rich in local lore. Interpretive panels along the route tell the story of the railway and its importance to the area.
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Haytor Granite Tramway Walk
Discover Dartmoor’s industrial heritage with the Haytor Granite Tramway Walk, a moderately easy route ideal for families and history enthusiasts. Starting from the Haytor Visitor Centre, the trail follows the remains of a granite tramway used in the 19th century to transport stone from Haytor Quarries to the canal at Teigngrace.
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Distance: Approximately 3 miles
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Highlights: Haytor Rocks, panoramic moorland views, historic tram tracks
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Accessibility: Suitable for most walkers; some uneven ground
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Best for: Scenic views and industrial history
Enjoy spectacular vistas of the South Devon coast on clear days, and don't forget to climb Haytor Rock for a rewarding view.
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Wistman's Wood and Crockern Tor Walk
Step into Dartmoor legend on the Wistman's Wood and Crockern Tor Walk. Wistman's Wood is an ancient high-altitude oakwood, cloaked in moss and myth, making it one of Dartmoor’s most atmospheric locations.
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Distance: 2–3 miles (there and back)
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Highlights: Wistman’s Wood, Crockern Tor, river views
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Accessibility: Rocky paths; good footwear recommended
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Best for: Myth, mystery, and dramatic landscapes
From the Two Bridges Hotel, follow the well-trodden path along the West Dart River. After visiting the wood, continue to Crockern Tor for sweeping views and a connection to Dartmoor’s historic parliament site.
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Bellever Forest and Dart River Walk
For a peaceful woodland walk with riverside charm, the Bellever Forest and Dart River Walk is a must. Begin at Postbridge and enter Bellever Forest, where paths wind through conifers and lead to the picturesque River Dart.
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Distance: Around 5 miles (circular)
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Highlights: Ancient clapper bridge, native woodland, Dart River
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Accessibility: Mixed terrain, moderate effort
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Best for: Nature lovers and photographers
Look out for wild ponies, birds of prey, and even Bronze Age hut circles scattered throughout the forest. This walk is particularly beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn rich gold and amber.
