Stretching across 368 square miles of southwest England, Dartmoor National Park captivates with its rugged granite tors, ancient woodlands, and sweeping moorlands. This comprehensive guide helps you navigate one of Britain’s last true wilderness areas.
Understanding Dartmoor’s Unique Landscape
Dartmoor’s dramatic scenery formed over 280 million years ago when molten granite cooled beneath the earth’s surface. Today, this creates:
- Iconic tors (exposed granite hilltops) like Haytor and Hound Tor
- Fast-flowing rivers carving deep valleys through the moor
- Rare blanket bogs storing more carbon than rainforests
Key Areas to Explore
Northern Moorland
- High Willhays & Yes Tor – Dartmoor’s highest points
- Meldon Reservoir – Popular for walking and fishing
- Okehampton Castle – Impressive Norman ruins
Central Moorland
- Princetown – Home to Dartmoor Prison
- Fox Tor Mires – Inspired Sherlock Holmes’ Grimpen Mire
- Bellever Forest – Ancient woodland with a stone circle
Southern Moorland
- Dart Valley – Stunning river walks
- Widecombe-in-the-Moor – Quintessential Dartmoor village
- Pupers Hill – Spectacular viewpoint
Must-Do Experiences
For Walkers
- Tors Challenge – Summit 5 iconic tors in a day
- Two Moors Way – Section of this long-distance trail
- Waterfall Walks – Becky Falls or Lydford Gorge
For Families
- Miniature Pony Centre – Meet Dartmoor’s famous ponies
- Dartmoor Zoo – Made famous by “We Bought a Zoo”
- Geocaching – Modern treasure hunting
For History Buffs
- Grimspound – Best preserved Bronze Age settlement
- Wistman’s Wood – Ancient dwarf oak forest
- Clapper Bridges – Medieval stone river crossings
Practical Visiting Information
When to Come
- April-June for wildflowers and foals
- September-October for autumn colors
- Winter for atmospheric misty landscapes
Getting Around
- Car essential for reaching remote areas
- Parking at major sites (typically £2-5/day)
- Bus services limited to main villages
Staying Safe
✔ Always carry a paper map (OL28)
✔ Wear proper footwear – terrain is rough
✔ Check firing times if visiting northern ranges
Where to Stay
| Option | Best For | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Hotels | Comfort | Bovey Castle |
| B&Bs | Charm | The Old Rectory, Chagford |
| Camping | Adventure | Bellever Forest campsite |
| Self-catering | Families | Widecombe cottages |
Dining Highlights
- Warren House Inn – England’s highest pub
- Rugglestone Inn – Classic moorland tavern
- The Horn of Plenty – Michelin-starred dining
Essential Tips
- Dartmoor’s weather changes rapidly – pack layers
- Mobile signal is patchy across the moors
- Respect grazing livestock and wild ponies
With proper preparation, Dartmoor offers unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re drawn to its prehistoric sites, dramatic landscapes, or peaceful villages, this guide ensures you experience the best of this extraordinary national park.
