Moretonhampstead
Although the residents will tell you it’s a town, Moretonhampstead has a village like quality. It is geographically at almost the exact middle of the county, so for anyone visiting Devon that wants to travel around, this would be a good base, with pretty much everything within equal distance away.
Top Things to Do in Moretonhampstead
- Explore Dartmoor Tors: Discover iconic Dartmoor Tors like Haytor and Hound Tor.
- Stroll the Historic Streets: Wander through the medieval streets of Moretonhampstead, lined with charming cottages, shops, and traditional pubs.
- Enjoy Local Food & Drink: Sample the delights of traditional Devonshire cream teas, local ales, and fresh, seasonal meals at local pubs and restaurants.
- Visit Green Hill Arts: This dynamic arts venue offers inspiring exhibitions and events throughout the year.
- Moretonhampstead Motor Museum: With over 100 classic vehicles on display, this museum is a hit with vintage car enthusiasts.
Why Visit Moretonhampstead?
1. Gateway to Dartmoor National Park
Moretonhampstead is known as a “Gateway to Dartmoor,” making it the perfect base for exploring Dartmoor National Park. Hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers will be thrilled with the diverse trails and landscapes, from rocky tors to lush woodlands. Visitors can enjoy guided tours or head out solo to experience one of Devon’s most breathtaking regions.
2. Rich History and Heritage
With its roots stretching back over 1,000 years, Moretonhampstead offers a fascinating glimpse into Devon's past. The town itself is a medieval settlement, and you’ll find numerous historic sites, including St. Andrew's Church, which dates to the 15th century, and old inns that once hosted weary travellers. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of historic buildings, many with distinct Devonian styles.
3. Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene
Moretonhampstead boasts a thriving arts community. Visit the Green Hill Arts Gallery, a well-regarded gallery showcasing local and regional artists, or explore artisan shops featuring pottery, paintings, and handmade crafts. The town hosts events throughout the year, including the annual Moretonhampstead Carnival, where visitors can experience local traditions, live music, and community spirit.
4. Outdoor Adventures for Everyone
Dartmoor offers year-round outdoor activities suitable for all ages and abilities. In summer, hike up to Hound Tor for panoramic views of the Devon countryside, or enjoy a gentle bike ride through scenic lanes and moorlands. During winter, Moretonhampstead’s cosy pubs and welcoming cafés make it the perfect retreat after a brisk Dartmoor walk.
Moretonhampstead: Gateway to Dartmoor National Park
A wonderfully atmospheric market town, Moretonhampstead is right on the edge of Dartmoor, you can see the moor from the town. Much of the town is a conservation area with many listed buildings of architectural and historic interest, including the Grade 1 Parish Church and the almshouses on Cross Street. The National Trust now manage a number of the buildings in the town, making them tourist attractions. Many of the original buildings have been repurposed, with the arts and heritage centre now being housed in the former primary school and the former bus depot now being a motor vehicle museum.
Being so close to the moor means that Moretonhampstead is full of spooky legends to enthral and scare visitors. Dartmoor has long been surrounded with stories of ghosts, mysterious legends and mythical creatures. Moretonhampstead, with its old buildings and historic charm also has a number of mysteries and tales.
As the moor is literally on the doorstep, visitors who want to spend time in the region exploring and taking part in walking trails will find Moretonhampstead an ideal base. It isn’t just about the exploration though, the town has a thriving crafts community and has a whole host of open studios and galleries that regularly welcome artists from around the country to display their works and also offer workshops. More recently it has been home to an increasing number of public art installations.
Moretonhampstead has an open air swimming pool, perfect for hot Devon summers and neighbours Bovey Tracey, which is an interesting historical town in its own right and is home to Bovey Castle. A number of other popular attractions are also nearby.
Getting to Moretonhampstead
Moretonhampstead is easily accessible from major cities in the southwest. By car, it's just a 25-minute drive from Exeter, and public transport options include buses from Exeter and Newton Abbot. There are ample parking options, making it convenient for day trips or extended stays.