Dartmoor National Park
A vast, wild moorland of granite tors, ancient woodlands, and free-roaming ponies offering unparalleled hiking and exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Dartmoor National Park
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, wild moorland of granite tors, ancient woodlands, and free-roaming ponies offering unparalleled hiking and exploration.
"An unforgettable place where sheep wear leopard print and cows rule the roads."
🗺️ Pack a Map & Compass
Essential for navigating the vast moors, as mobile signal can be unreliable.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be uneven and boggy; good footwear is a must for comfortable exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Granite Tors
Throughout the park
Iconic rocky outcrops offering breathtaking panoramic views and challenging climbs.
Dartmoor Ponies
Across the moors
Encounter these semi-wild, hardy ponies roaming freely – a truly unique sight.
Foggintor Quarry
Near Princetown
A dramatic, abandoned granite quarry with striking blue water, perfect for exploration.
Lydford Gorge
Western Dartmoor
Explore the deepest river gorge in the South West, featuring a stunning 30m waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Wild Camping & Rights
Navigating the Moors: Transport & Roads
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Pack a Map & Compass
Essential for navigating the vast moors, as mobile signal can be unreliable.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be uneven and boggy; good footwear is a must for comfortable exploration.
🚗 Drive with Caution
Watch out for free-roaming sheep and ponies on narrow, winding roads.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Sunsets and sunrises over the tors offer spectacular photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Pack a Map & Compass
Essential for navigating the vast moors, as mobile signal can be unreliable.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be uneven and boggy; good footwear is a must for comfortable exploration.
🚗 Drive with Caution
Watch out for free-roaming sheep and ponies on narrow, winding roads.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Sunsets and sunrises over the tors offer spectacular photo opportunities.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes across the open moorland.
🧥 Be Prepared for Weather
Dartmoor weather can change rapidly; pack layers and waterproofs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dartmoor for its breathtaking, wild landscapes and the unique experience of encountering free-roaming livestock. The opportunities for hiking and exploring historical sites are major draws, offering a sense of peace and adventure. Some find the weather unpredictable and the limited public transport challenging, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to return.
"An unforgettable place where sheep wear leopard print and cows rule the roads.
We visited Dartmoor National Park — and it felt like stepping into a slower, older rhythm of life. Rolling hills, heather, wind… and sheep with spotted wool that looked oddly like leopard-print leggings. They wandered freely, completely unfazed by people — like they owned the land.
Cows strolled casually down the roads, and drivers patiently waited. It was funny at first, but totally normal here.
We loved the ruins of ancient stone structures — covered in moss and filled with silence. Found a small waterfall hidden between rocks — a real gem.
If you're looking for a place where nature follows its own rules — this is it. We'll definitely be back."
Tatiana
"Every time I visit England, I always love going back to Dartmoor. I first came here as a child, and it’s just as beautiful now as I remember. The hikes are great, whether you want an easy walk or something more challenging, and the scenery is stunning. Seeing the wild ponies and the wide open moors always makes it feel special. It’s one of those places I never get tired of visiting."
Sarah
"Spectacular place, so much to see and do, if you like Tors, desolate moors, valleys with trees, reservoirs, lakes, streams, rivers and woods, then this is the place for you.
Wonderful to see all the Dartmoor ponies and foals, cattle and sheep roaming free. Loads of walks from easy, to moderate, to hard ones, so many different Tors to see.. Lots of cycling tracks, and areas to go horse riding.
The scenery is breathtaking. Plenty of pubs along the route to stop at for food and drink. Places to stop for picnics as so many car parks all over the moors.
Stunning little villages around too.
Well worth a visit."
Ilona
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reaching Dartmoor without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport. Buses from Plymouth and Exeter serve some towns like Princetown and Tavistock, but schedules are restricted. Consider local taxi services or organized tours for more remote areas.
Towns like Tavistock, Okehampton, and Chagford offer good access to the moors and amenities. Princetown is centrally located but can be a bit bleak. Consider villages like Lustleigh for a more charming experience.
Driving on Dartmoor involves navigating narrow, winding country lanes. Be prepared for sheep, ponies, and cattle to wander onto the roads, so drive slowly and cautiously. Many car parks offer free parking.
Yes, seasonal guided tours are available, often focusing on specific interests like history, wildlife, or walking routes. Check with local visitor centers for current offerings.
For the true heart of Dartmoor, driving is the most convenient. However, for the adventurous, long-distance walking routes like the Two Moors Way offer an immersive experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dartmoor National Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees for the park itself, though some specific attractions or car parks might have charges.
Dartmoor is open 24/7, as it's a natural landscape. Visitor centers and specific attractions within the park will have their own operating hours.
Wild camping on Dartmoor has become legally complex following a court case. While some individuals still practice it, it's no longer a guaranteed right. It's advisable to check current regulations or opt for designated campsites.
Many car parks across Dartmoor offer free parking, which is a significant benefit for visitors. However, some popular spots or those near specific attractions might have charges.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Dartmoor National Park, especially on the open moorland. However, they must be kept under close control, particularly during lambing season and around livestock.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include routes to Haytor, Belstone Tor, and the challenging trails around Princetown. For a unique experience, explore Foggintor Quarry or Lydford Gorge.
Dartmoor is famous for its wild ponies and sheep roaming freely. You might also spot cattle, various bird species, and if you're lucky, adders.
Dartmoor is rich in history, with numerous Bronze Age sites, stone circles, ancient settlements, and medieval castles like Castle Drogo.
Tors are distinctive granite outcrops found on hilltops across Dartmoor. They are popular for climbing and offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Yes, Dartmoor is a popular destination for rock climbing and bouldering, with many granite tors offering challenging routes for various skill levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, many villages within and around Dartmoor have traditional pubs offering local food and ales. Some offer stunning views and are perfect stops after a hike.
Absolutely! Dartmoor is ideal for picnics. There are numerous scenic spots and car parks with picnic facilities, allowing you to enjoy the landscape while you eat.
Look out for local produce like Dartmoor lamb, cream teas, and traditional pub fare. Many establishments pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients.
Yes, you'll find charming cafes and tea rooms in the villages surrounding Dartmoor, offering refreshments and light meals.
Larger towns like Tavistock and Okehampton have supermarkets and local shops where you can buy picnic supplies. Smaller villages may have limited options.
📸 📸 Photography
The granite tors, especially at sunrise and sunset, offer dramatic landscapes. Foggintor Quarry, Lydford Gorge, and Wistman's Wood are also highly photogenic.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Misty mornings can also create an atmospheric effect.
While not as common as general guided tours, some photography workshops or private guides may operate in Dartmoor, especially for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions and long exposures. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your gear.
Yes, the wild ponies are a popular subject. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Early morning or late afternoon light often yields the best results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Choose shorter, well-marked trails.
* Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.
* Visit visitor centers for family-friendly activity suggestions.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Solo traveler tips:
* Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
* Utilize visitor centers for route advice and safety information.
* Embrace the quiet and enjoy the stunning, often dramatic, scenery.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Photography tips:
* Invest in a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas.
* A tripod is essential for low-light and long exposures.
* Be patient and wait for the best light and wildlife encounters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wild Heart: Dartmoor's Unique Landscape
The park is also dotted with reservoirs, rivers, and streams, adding to its diverse beauty. The iconic Dartmoor ponies and other livestock roam freely, adding a touch of wildness to the scenery. The changing seasons bring different hues to the landscape, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the russet and gold tones of autumn. This raw, untamed beauty is what draws many visitors seeking an escape from urban life and a chance to experience nature in its purest form.
Key features of Dartmoor's landscape include:
* Granite Tors: These distinctive rock formations are scattered across the moor and offer incredible viewpoints.
* Moorland: Vast open spaces covered in heather, gorse, and grasses.
* Ancient Woodlands: Unique pockets of old-growth forest, such as Wistman's Wood.
* Rivers and Reservoirs: Providing water sources and scenic spots for recreation.
* Wildlife: Including the famous Dartmoor ponies and diverse birdlife.
A Journey Through Time: Dartmoor's Rich History
Beyond its prehistoric roots, Dartmoor has a complex history involving agriculture, mining, and military use. The granite tors were not only natural landmarks but also served as strategic points. The area around Princetown was historically a center for granite extraction, leaving behind dramatic quarry landscapes. The park also holds military significance, with training areas and ranges. Understanding this layered history enhances the visitor's appreciation for the enduring character of Dartmoor.
Historical highlights include:
* Bronze Age Sites: Including stone circles and burial chambers.
* Medieval Remains: Such as Castle Drogo, a stunning 17th-century manor house.
* Industrial Heritage: Like the abandoned Foggintor Quarry.
* Ancient Trackways: Evidence of old routes across the moor.
Adventure Awaits: Activities in Dartmoor
For those seeking a more immersive experience, wild camping (though legally complex now) has been a popular pursuit, offering a chance to sleep under the stars in remote locations. Horse riding is another favored activity, with designated bridleways allowing exploration of the park on horseback. Cycling enthusiasts can also find numerous routes, from scenic lanes to off-road trails. Water activities, such as wild swimming in rivers and waterfalls like those at Lydford Gorge, offer a refreshing way to connect with nature.
Popular activities include:
* Hiking and Trekking: Extensive trail network for all abilities.
* Rock Climbing & Bouldering: On the granite tors.
* Horse Riding: Utilizing designated bridleways.
* Cycling: Both on-road and off-road routes.
* Wild Swimming: In rivers and waterfalls.
* Photography: Capturing the dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit