Dartmoor National Park Map
Located in Devon, England, Dartmoor National Park is a stunning destination that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From hiking to historical landmarks, this park has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Dartmoor is a vast park with many attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the top attractions include:
Hound Tor
This is a granite outcrop that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking, and picnicking.
Grimspound
This is an ancient settlement that dates back to the Bronze Age. The site has stone hut circles, which are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived here thousands of years ago.
Buckland Abbey
This is a historic house that was once home to Sir Francis Drake. Visitors can explore the house and its beautiful gardens.
Hidden Gems
Dartmoor is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Some of these include:
Bellever Woods
This is a beautiful woodland area that is perfect for a peaceful walk. The woods are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds.
Wistman’s Wood
This is a unique woodland that is home to ancient oak trees covered in moss. The wood has a mystical feel and is a popular spot for photographers.
Lydford Gorge
This is a stunning gorge that is home to a waterfall and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can take a walk along the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Food Scene
Dartmoor has a thriving food scene, with many restaurants and cafes serving local produce. Some of the top places to eat include:
The Old Inn
This traditional pub serves classic British food, including fish and chips and roast beef.
The Rugglestone Inn
This cozy pub serves hearty meals, including steak and ale pie and fisherman’s stew.
The Rock Inn
This pub is known for its excellent Sunday roast and its selection of local beers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Dartmoor can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money on accommodation. There are many campsites in Dartmoor that offer stunning views and facilities.
Bring Your Own Food
Bringing your own food and drinks can save you money on eating out. There are many picnic spots in Dartmoor where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
Free Attractions
There are many free attractions in Dartmoor, including hiking trails and historical landmarks. These are a great way to explore the park without spending money.
Outdoor Adventures
Dartmoor is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures include:
Hiking
Dartmoor has many hiking trails that offer stunning views of the landscape. Some of the top trails include the Two Moors Way and the Dartmoor Way.
Cycling
Dartmoor has many cycling routes that are suitable for all levels of experience. Some of the top routes include the Granite Way and the Plym Valley Cycle Trail.
Horse Riding
Dartmoor is home to many stables that offer horse riding experiences. This is a great way to explore the park and see the landscape from a different perspective.
Family-Friendly Activities
Dartmoor is a great destination for families, with many activities that are suitable for children. Some of the top family-friendly activities include:
Pennywell Farm
This farm offers a variety of activities, including animal encounters and tractor rides.
Miniature Pony Centre
This center is home to a variety of miniature ponies that children can meet and interact with.
Canonteign Falls
This waterfall is the highest in England and offers stunning views. There is also a children’s play area and a cafe.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit different, Dartmoor has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Some of these include:
Wild Swimming
Dartmoor has many rivers and streams that are perfect for wild swimming. This is a unique way to experience the park and its natural beauty.
Night Sky Photography
Dartmoor has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a great destination for night sky photography.
Letterboxing
Letterboxing is a popular activity in Dartmoor, where participants follow clues to find hidden boxes. This is a fun way to explore the park and its history.
Natural Wonders
Dartmoor is home to many natural wonders that are worth exploring. Some of these include:
Haytor Rocks
These granite outcrops offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. They are also a popular spot for rock climbing.
Foggintor Quarry
This abandoned quarry is now home to a lake, which is popular for swimming and kayaking.
Black-a-Tor Copse
This ancient woodland is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters and woodpeckers.
Vibrant Nightlife
Dartmoor may be a rural destination, but it still has plenty of nightlife. Some of the top places to enjoy a night out include:
The White Hart
This pub has live music and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out.
The Cleave
This pub has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of local beers.
The Nobody Inn
This pub is known for its extensive wine list and its cozy atmosphere.
Local Markets
Dartmoor has many local markets that sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce and handmade crafts. Some of the top markets include:
Tavistock Pannier Market
This market has been running for over 900 years and offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Moretonhampstead Market
This market is held every Tuesday and offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce and antiques.
Ashburton Farmers Market
This market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of fresh produce, including meat, cheese, and vegetables.
Beaches and Mountains
Dartmoor may be a landlocked destination, but it is still within easy reach of some of the UK’s best beaches and mountains. Some of the top places to visit include:
Devon Beaches
Devon has many beautiful beaches, including Bantham Beach and Woolacombe Beach. These are great destinations for a day trip.
Cornish Coastline
The Cornish coastline is home to some of the UK’s most stunning beaches, including Fistral Beach and Porthcurno Beach.
Exmoor National Park
This national park is home to stunning mountains and hills, including Dunkery Beacon and Exmoor Forest.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Dartmoor’s culture, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Some of these include:
Dartmoor Folk Festival
This festival celebrates Dartmoor’s folk music and dance traditions, with concerts and workshops.
Princetown Audio Walking Tour
This audio walking tour takes visitors on a journey through Dartmoor’s history, from the Bronze Age to the present day.
Buckland Abbey Medieval Weekend
This event takes place in August and celebrates Buckland Abbey’s medieval history, with re-enactments and demonstrations.
Art and Music Scene
Dartmoor has a vibrant art and music scene, with many galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Some of the top places to visit