Discover Dartmoor | A Visitor's Introduction to Dartmoor

Why is Dartmoor Worth a Visit?

Dartmoor’s allure lies in its untamed, windswept landscapes and rich history that stretches back to prehistoric times. Dotted with ancient stone circles, medieval bridges, and the famous Dartmoor ponies, the moorland offers an experience that feels both timeless and enchanting. Its legends, from the eerie Hound of the Baskervilles to local ghost stories, add an element of mystery that draws visitors seeking adventure and folklore. Whether you're hiking across open moorland, exploring hidden valleys, or discovering quaint villages with thatched cottages, Dartmoor’s wild heart offers something truly special.

Dartmoor Highlights: Things to See and Do in Dartmoor

1. Haytor

One of Dartmoor’s most iconic granite tors, Haytor stands proudly over the eastern moor. Its distinctive shape and panoramic views make it a favourite for walkers and climbers. On a clear day, you can see across Devon to the coast. Haytor Quarry, just below, hints at the area’s industrial past, and nearby you can follow the Granite Tramway, once used to transport stone.

2. Wistman’s Wood

This ancient, twisted oak forest feels like stepping into a fairytale. Wistman’s Wood is one of the few remaining high-altitude oakwoods in the UK, with moss-covered boulders and gnarled trees creating an almost magical atmosphere. It’s a short but rewarding walk from Two Bridges, and the area is rich in folklore, often linked with Dartmoor’s darker legends.

3. Postbridge Clapper Bridge

Postbridge is home to one of Dartmoor’s best-preserved clapper bridges, dating back to medieval times. This charming stone bridge, constructed from large granite slabs, spans the East Dart River and provides a picturesque spot for photography and picnics. The nearby Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre is a great place to learn more about the area’s history and wildlife.

4. Dartmoor Ponies

No visit to Dartmoor is complete without encountering its famous ponies. These hardy animals have roamed the moor for centuries and are an essential part of its heritage. They can often be seen grazing by the roadside or wandering freely across the moor. Although wild, they are accustomed to visitors, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

5. Princetown and Dartmoor Prison Museum

Princetown is the highest town on Dartmoor and home to Dartmoor Prison, an imposing structure built in the early 19th century to house prisoners of war. The Dartmoor Prison Museum gives a fascinating insight into the prison’s grim history, showcasing artefacts, stories, and exhibits about famous inmates. Princetown is also a great base for exploring the surrounding moor.

6. Hound Tor and Medieval Village

Hound Tor is another dramatic granite formation with stunning views over Dartmoor. Nearby, the remains of a deserted medieval village provide a haunting glimpse into Dartmoor’s past. The site, abandoned in the 14th century, features the foundations of longhouses and gives visitors a sense of what life was like for Dartmoor’s early inhabitants.

7. Lydford Gorge

Managed by the National Trust, Lydford Gorge is the deepest gorge in South West England, with a spectacular 30-metre waterfall known as the White Lady. A circular walk through the gorge takes you along the River Lyd, past whirlpools and mossy cliffs. It’s an exhilarating walk, especially after heavy rain when the waterfall is at its most powerful.

8. Brent Tor

Brent Tor is a striking volcanic hill topped by the Church of St Michael de Rupe. The tiny church, perched dramatically on the summit, offers breath-taking views across Dartmoor and beyond. The tor’s rugged beauty and the isolated setting make it one of Dartmoor’s most memorable landmarks.

9. Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is the last castle to be built in England, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the early 20th century. Located on the edge of Dartmoor near Drewsteignton, this National Trust property is an architectural marvel. The castle’s gardens and surrounding Teign Gorge offer scenic walks and views across the valley.

10. Burrator Reservoir

Nestled within the south-western corner of Dartmoor, Burrator Reservoir is a peaceful spot popular for walking, cycling, and picnicking. The area around the reservoir is rich in wildlife, and the paths that circle the water provide beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests.

11. Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement

Merrivale is one of Dartmoor’s most significant prehistoric sites, with stone rows, standing stones, and a stone circle dating back thousands of years. It offers a fascinating insight into Dartmoor’s ancient past, and the surrounding open moorland enhances the sense of stepping back in time.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Dartmoor is easily accessible by car, with major roads like the A38 and A30 providing good connections from Exeter and Plymouth. If travelling by train, the nearest stations are in Exeter, Newton Abbot, and Plymouth, from where you can hire a car or take local buses to reach the moor. Some areas of Dartmoor can also be explored by cycling or on foot.

Parking

Most of Dartmoor’s major attractions have dedicated car parks, although some of the more remote spots require roadside parking. Pay-and-display car parks are common, particularly near popular tors and reservoirs. During busy periods, parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.

Dining

Dartmoor boasts a range of traditional pubs, tea rooms, and local eateries. The Warren House Inn, one of the highest pubs in England, offers hearty meals and stunning views over the moor. The Rugglestone Inn in Widecombe-in-the-Moor is another popular spot, known for its cosy atmosphere and locally sourced food. For afternoon tea, try The Old Forge in Chagford.

Shopping

Dartmoor’s villages are home to unique local shops, selling everything from artisan crafts to locally made food products. Chagford and Tavistock are particularly good for independent boutiques and farmers' markets. Look out for Dartmoor honey, cheeses, and locally brewed ales.

When to Visit

Dartmoor is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are particularly inviting, with blooming heather and wildflowers. Autumn offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a stark, atmospheric beauty – though conditions can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, regardless of the season.

Local Events

Dartmoor hosts various local events and festivals, such as the Widecombe Fair in September, celebrating the area’s rural traditions. Tavistock’s Goose Fair and Chagford Show are also highlights, offering insight into Dartmoor’s agricultural heritage.

Exploring Beyond Dartmoor

If you have time, consider venturing beyond Dartmoor to nearby towns like Tavistock, a historic market town, or Exeter, with its impressive cathedral. The South Devon coast, with its beaches and seaside towns, is just a short drive away, making it easy to combine moorland adventures with coastal exploration.