Discover Princetown | A Visitor's Introduction to Princetown

Why is Princetown Worth a Visit?

Princetown’s isolated beauty, historic significance, and proximity to Dartmoor’s iconic landmarks make it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the wild side of Devon. Known as the highest town on Dartmoor, Princetown’s windswept location and stark beauty have inspired artists and writers, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who set part of his novel The Hound of the Baskervilles in the surrounding moorland.

From its infamous prison to the wide-open moorland, Princetown offers a blend of intrigue, nature, and heritage, making it the perfect destination for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.

Princetown Highlights: Things to See and Do in Princetown

1. Dartmoor Prison Museum

Dartmoor Prison Museum offers a fascinating look at one of the most famous and remote prisons in Britain. Established in 1809 to house French and American prisoners of war, the prison later became known for holding notorious criminals. The museum’s exhibits include prison artifacts, uniforms, and stories about famous inmates.

The museum also delves into the harsh conditions prisoners faced and the escape attempts that have become part of local legend. It’s an insightful stop that adds a sense of mystery and intrigue to the Princetown experience.

2. Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre

Located in the heart of Princetown, the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the area. The centre offers maps, guides, and interactive exhibits that showcase Dartmoor’s wildlife, archaeology, and geology. The knowledgeable staff can provide walking routes and tips for exploring the surrounding moorland and tors.

3. South Hessary Tor

A short walk from Princetown, South Hessary Tor is an easy yet rewarding hike. The tor offers sweeping views across Dartmoor and is often accompanied by the sight of wild Dartmoor ponies grazing on the moor. The route is relatively flat, making it a family-friendly walk that still delivers stunning scenery.

4. North Hessary Tor and TV Mast

For a more challenging hike, head to North Hessary Tor, topped by Dartmoor’s tallest structure – the Dartmoor TV mast. The tor provides panoramic views across the moor and is a popular spot for photographers and walkers seeking wide, open skies and expansive landscapes.

5. Two Bridges and Wistman’s Wood

A short drive from Princetown, Wistman’s Wood is one of Dartmoor’s most mystical and atmospheric locations. This ancient oak woodland is filled with gnarled trees, moss-covered boulders, and an eerie stillness that has inspired myths and legends. The walk to Wistman’s Wood begins at Two Bridges, a scenic spot with a historic inn that offers a traditional Dartmoor cream tea.

6. Walking and Hiking Trails

Princetown is a starting point for numerous walking trails across Dartmoor. Popular routes include:

• The Abbots Way – An ancient route connecting Buckfast Abbey to Tavistock.
• The Two Moors Way – A long-distance path that crosses Dartmoor.
• Merrivale – A nearby site with a prehistoric stone row, standing stones, and a stone circle.

These trails allow visitors to experience Dartmoor’s rugged beauty and rich archaeological heritage.

7. The Plume of Feathers

One of Princetown’s most famous pubs, The Plume of Feathers, dates back to the 18th century. With its stone walls, roaring fires, and hearty meals, it’s the perfect spot to warm up after a day on the moors. The pub serves locally brewed ales and classic British dishes, with plenty of stories about Dartmoor legends and ghostly sightings.

8. Lych Way (Way of the Dead)

The Lych Way is an ancient funeral route used by medieval communities to carry their dead to the church at Lydford. This atmospheric trail offers a window into Dartmoor’s spiritual and cultural history, with sweeping views and a sense of deep connection to the land. The trail begins near Princetown and leads across open moorland.

9. Cycling the Granite Way

Cyclists can enjoy the Granite Way, a scenic cycling route that runs from Okehampton to Princetown, passing through moorland, viaducts, and forested paths. The route follows disused railway lines, offering a smooth, gentle ride with fantastic views of Dartmoor’s landscape.

10. Cranmere Pool

For seasoned hikers, a trek to Cranmere Pool is a Dartmoor classic. Known as the location of the first Dartmoor letterbox (a tradition similar to geocaching), this remote spot offers a sense of wild solitude. Visitors who make the journey can stamp their logbook at the original letterbox – a rite of passage for Dartmoor explorers.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Princetown is accessible by car via the B3357, which crosses Dartmoor from Tavistock to Ashburton. The closest train stations are in Plymouth and Exeter, with buses connecting to Tavistock, from where local services run to Princetown. Driving is the easiest way to reach Princetown due to its remote moorland location.

Parking

Princetown has several public car parks, including spaces near the visitor centre and Dartmoor Prison Museum. Parking is generally free or low-cost, making it convenient for visitors exploring the area.

Dining

Princetown offers a handful of cosy pubs and cafés. In addition to The Plume of Feathers, try Fox Tor Café for homemade cakes, breakfasts, and hot drinks – a favourite with hikers. The Old Police Station Café offers traditional cream teas and light lunches.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Princetown is during spring and summer (April to September) when the weather is mild and the moors are at their most vibrant. Autumn offers beautiful moorland colours, while winter provides a more dramatic, atmospheric experience, perfect for bracing walks followed by a pint in a cosy pub.

Exploring Beyond Princetown

From Princetown, visitors can easily explore nearby Dartmoor attractions, including Postbridge, Tavistock, and Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Plymouth is a 40-minute drive away, offering urban attractions, historic docks, and sea views – the perfect contrast to Dartmoor’s rugged beauty.