Explore Dartmoor
When you think of Dartmoor, no doubt your mind immediately goes to the wild ponies, but there is so much more to this beautiful landscape than the wildlife or the dramatic-looking scenery. Dartmoor is full of history and heritage to explore, with records for this part of Devon going back to Neolithic times.
Learn more about Dartmoor here.
Dartmoor National Park
This unique area of moorland is one of the remaining areas of Britain that is truly wild, full of stunning views, wooded valleys, rivers and tors it is a magical and relaxing place to be. With the vast expanse of moorland that stretches out as far as the eye can see, Dartmoor is sure to awaken the explorer in you.
The largest number of archaeological remains in Europe can be found in Dartmoor, with many ancient villages and museums to whet your appetite for history and culture. There are a large number of stone circles, stone crosses and menhirs. It is also home to all manner of wildlife and various parts of the famous moor are Special Areas of Conservation. Get your cameras at the ready for visiting the Zoological park, the River Dart Country Park or Lydford Gorge, whether you’re a professional or amateur photographer, it is easy to capture the natural beauty of the region.
It doesn’t matter where you go in Dartmoor, you’ll come across a quaint village or bustling market town complete with its own history and customs. In Central Dartmoor, you’ll find places like Buckland on the Moor, Dartmeet, Poundsgate, Princeton, Widcombe in the Moor and Postbridge. To the west are the larger towns of Tavistock and Yelverton, as well as smaller settlements, like Brentor, Lewdown, Mary Tavy and Peter Tavy. South of Dartmoor you’ll find more well known areas, Buckfast, Buckfastleigh, Totnes, Ashburton, Holne, Ivybridge, South Brent and Lustleigh. The north of the Moor features places like Lydford, Okehampton, South Tawton, Sticklepath and others and to the east, you’ll find Bovey Tracy, Chagford, Ilsington and Moretonhampstead among more. There are plenty of things to do.
Dartmoor Ponies
The ponies that roam around the moor are an iconic sight for anyone visiting. In the spring months, you might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the new foals playing together against a beautiful backdrop. Though an encounter with the pure breed Dartmoor Ponies, who have wondered the land for centuries is always a special experience, it is important to remember that they are semi wild and Dartmoor is their home, so while it is encouraged to have picnics, go on walks and enjoy the uninterrupted scenery, bear in mind to leave it as you found it.
Dartmoor is a family friendly destination, with many attractions from Tree Surfers, full of cross rope bridges, zip lines, walkways and Tarzan swings to challenge and excite you, to the historic South Devon Railway, where you can reminisce with a steam train trip, to Trago Mills, where you can enjoy a family fun park and discounted shopping.
Want to visit specifically to see the ponies? Well, how about getting acquainted with a range of cute animals at Pennywell Farm?
Fancy getting into the great outdoors? How about showing off your inner daredevil with a boating trip on Roadford Lake? This lake is the largest inland water in the south west and includes everything from boating to den building and exploring the surrounding woodland.
Walks in Dartmoor
Visitors wanting a walking holiday need look no further than the Forestry Commission’s Bellever Forest. Choose from one of the way marked walking trails or join the historic bridleway, The Lich Way. You can find free downloadable audio walks for Postbridge and Bellever on Dartmoor National Park’s website and keep your eyes peeled for the numerous archaeological sites to discover as you explore. If cycling is more your bag, Bike Guide Devon should be your first port of call.
If you’re looking for something a bit cosier, you can take a stroll around the many picturesque villages to be found in this part of Devon. Many villages still have thatched cottages, traditional old pubs, like the Arundell Arms Hotel, market towns, cobbled streets and everything you need to be transported into a simpler time. But if that sounds a bit too quaint for you, there are also two major cities within a fifteen minute’s drive.
Not content with having all of that going for it, Dartmoor is also perfect for those who enjoy a pop culture reference. The literary greats, such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, used Dartmoor for inspiration, Sherlock Holmes’ adventure with the Hound of the Baskerville having been based on the Dartmoor countryside. If that wasn’t enough for you, Stephen Spielberg used the landscape in his epic, War Horse, and Postbridge can be spotted in Rosamunde Pilcher. Dartmoor is as fascinating now as it was hundreds of years ago, full of tradition, folklore, farmland, modernity and history to give you a well-rounded trip.
Cycling on Dartmoor
Another great way to explore Dartmoor is to get out on your bike, there is an extensive network of cycle trails and pathways taking you through spectacular countryside and with something for every cyclist. Whether you want a challenge or something a bit more gentle, you'll find a suitable route - just be aware that cycling on the open moorland and common land is not permitted, so make sure to stick to the designated routes. You can pick up a map showing the routes around Dartmoor from one of the National Park Visitor Centres or online, the maps have plenty of options, including the popular Drake's Trail, the Dartmoor Way and the Granite Way among others.
Camping on Dartmoor
As a living, working area of Devon with plenty of villages and hamlets littered around it, you’ll find lots of accommodation options to suit you. One of the great ways to experience Dartmoor is by camping and with the nearby Camping and Caravanning Club site at Tavistock and options to camp at family-friendly places like Roadford Lake you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Not up for sleeping under canvas? There are loads of other properties available from self-catering cottages to B&Bs to hotels to farm stays – so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. Dartmoor really is a haven for unique accommodations. Browse the wide range on offer here.
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Dartmoor
Welcome to Dartmoor National Park where adventures are made.
Dartmoor events
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Family Friendly Dartmoor
Find family friendly activities across Dartmoor here.
Our Highlights...
Dartmoor Events
Christmas at Castle Drogo
The castle will be traditionally dressed with trees, garlands and of course lights. With beautifully…
Christmas Party Nights at House of Marbles
From traditional Christmas flavours to modern twists on classic dishes, each night is a culinary…
Christmas Wreath Making with Prosecco
Dive into the festive spirit with our exclusive Christmas Wreath Making Workshop, paired with the…
Festive Lunch
Celebrate the run-up to Christmas in fine festive style at the Two Bridges Hotel. Roast turkey and…
Glass Bauble Making Workshops
Indulge in the annual tradition of glassmaking at Teign Valley Glass Studio, and infuse your festive…
Okehampton Edwardian Evening
Okehampton's Edwardian Evening: A Festive Christmas Extravaganza for the whole community…
OPEN SHOW
OPEN SHOW The Gallery @ Bovey Paradiso is excited to host our Open Show featuring the work of over…
Festive Fridays in Bovey Tracey
The business community in Bovey Tracey is getting into the holiday spirit, planning a calendar of…
Murder Mystery Dinner at The Two Bridges Hotel
There's murder in the air. Can you unravel the clues and point a finger at the culprit? Enjoy a…
Breakfast With Santa
Santa Claus is coming to Dartmoor Zoo! Join us for a morning of Festive Banqueting, Christmassy…
Christmas Party Nights at The Bedford
Christmas parties with all the trimmings - in the glittering setting of Gallery 26 at The Bedford…
The Bedford Hotel - Christmas Party Night
Christmas parties with all the trimmings - in the glittering setting of Gallery 26 at The Bedford…
Christmas Craft Workshops at The Bedford Hotel
Add a personal touch to your Christmas preparations, by making a wreath, garland, table centrepiece…
Tavistock Christmas Festival
Miss Ivy Events proudly brings you a fun and festive Christmas Market in the Pannier Market…
Christmas Willow Star Weaving with Prosecco
Step into the festive season with flair at our Christmas Willow Star Weaving with Prosecco workshop…
Zooluminate
Back by popular demand…Zooluminate 2024! Experience a magical, wintery and festive walk around our…
Mount Kelly Choral Society Christmas Concert
Mozart Coronation Mass, plus highlights from Handel's Messiah. Divertimento Ensemble, with…
Trolls in the Light Shadow Puppet Making
Trolls in the Light! Join James and Pip with their moon shadow screen to discover the magical world…
Christmas Cocktail Making Masterclass
Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of Christmas cocktails with our brand new December…
Festive Dinner & Jazz - The Bedford Hotel
Your three course Festive Dinner menu includes traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings…
Visit Dartmoor
Welcome to Dartmoor National Park where adventures are made.
See more from Dartmoor
Bovey Castle announces pair of charity initiatives
- 2 minute read
A five-star Devon hotel has unveiled its plans to give back to the community this Christmas by supporting a pair of charity initiatives with essentials and gifts. Bovey Castle, in Dartmoor National Park, is donating gift parcels to the Trussell Trust which supports people in food poverty – every…
Learn MoreCelebrate Autumn at Buckland Abbey’s half term and Harvest Weekend
- 3 minute read
This October half term, the National Trust’s Buckland Abbey will be celebrating the hard work of the garden team who have grown a bounty of squashes and pumpkins for everyone to enjoy. Buckland's baby dragon trail will run throughout the half term week and dragon inspired craft sessions led by…
Learn MoreFive-star Olympic break unveiled at Bovey Castle
- 3 minute read
A last minute Olympic-themed break in the heart of Dartmoor National Park has been unveiled by a luxury Devon hotel. Five-star hotel Bovey Castle, in Newton Abbot, is inviting guests to its resort to try up to five sports that will be on show at this summer’s Olympics (26 July to 11 August) and…
Learn MoreThere’s a summer of adventure planned at Canonteign Falls
- 2 minute read
This summer head to Canonteign Falls on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park for a summer of fun and adventure for the whole family. Canonteign Falls, Devon's hidden gem on the edge of Dartmoor is nestled in a breathtaking landscape, visitors are invited to discover an immersive experience in…
Learn MorePlaces to stay on Dartmoor
- 3 minute read
This summer why not have some adventure by heading to Dartmoor? With everything from abseiling to climbing, hiking and orienteering, Dartmoor gives you the best of both worlds, there is a host of opportunities for adventure, while also offering a calming atmosphere full of peaceful places to walk…
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