New Bridge River Dart
Explore the wild heart of Dartmoor National Park, a vast expanse of rugged moorland, ancient tors, and winding rivers. Perfect for hiking, wild campin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
New Bridge River Dart
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the wild heart of Dartmoor National Park, a vast expanse of rugged moorland, ancient tors, and winding rivers. Perfect for hiking, wild camping, and escaping into nature.
"An adventure of a lifetime awaits on Dartmoor's stunning 50km routes!"
Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, layers, and sturdy boots for your hikes .
Wild Camping Etiquette 🏕️
Leave no trace! Pack out everything you pack in. Respect the environment and local guidelines .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Camping Under the Stars
Designated wild camping areas
Experience the magic of sleeping under vast skies in this stunning national park. A truly unforgettable adventure .
The Dartmoor Line Train Journey
Dartmoor Line
A picturesque train ride offering easy access to the park's breathtaking landscapes. Perfect for day-trippers .
Challenging 50km Hiking Routes
Various trails across Dartmoor
Embark on an epic backpacking adventure, covering vast distances and experiencing the park's rugged beauty .
Riverside Serenity
River Dart and its tributaries
Find peaceful spots along the river for a moment of calm amidst the wild moorland. Perfect for a quiet escape .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Wild Camping & Hiking
Getting There: Train or Trail?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, layers, and sturdy boots for your hikes.
Wild Camping Etiquette 🏕️
Leave no trace! Pack out everything you pack in. Respect the environment and local guidelines.
Plan Your Route 🗺️
Use maps and compass or GPS. Trails can be challenging, so know your limits and plan accordingly.
Train Travel Convenience 🚆
The Dartmoor Line is a great way to access the park without a car. Book tickets in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for All Weathers 🌦️
Dartmoor weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, layers, and sturdy boots for your hikes.
Wild Camping Etiquette 🏕️
Leave no trace! Pack out everything you pack in. Respect the environment and local guidelines.
Plan Your Route 🗺️
Use maps and compass or GPS. Trails can be challenging, so know your limits and plan accordingly.
Train Travel Convenience 🚆
The Dartmoor Line is a great way to access the park without a car. Book tickets in advance.
Embrace the Solitude 🧘
Dartmoor offers incredible peace. Enjoy the quiet moments and connect with nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dartmoor National Park for its wild, untamed beauty and the freedom it offers for hiking and wild camping. The dramatic landscapes and sense of solitude are major draws. However, some find the weather unpredictable and certain areas can be challenging to navigate without experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Dartmoor by car, with various parking areas available. Alternatively, the new Dartmoor Line train service provides a scenic and convenient way to access parts of the park.
Many visitors also arrive via bus routes connecting to nearby towns.Limited bus services operate within Dartmoor, connecting some villages and key points. For extensive exploration, especially for hiking and wild camping, having your own transport or utilizing the train line is often recommended.
Yes, cycling is permitted on many bridleways and some roads within Dartmoor. Be prepared for hilly terrain and potentially rough tracks. Always check local cycling routes and guidelines.
Access points vary depending on the trail. Many popular routes start from villages like Princetown or Postbridge, or from designated car parks. The Dartmoor Line train can also drop you near some trailheads.
While not traditional park and ride, some larger villages offer parking facilities that can serve as starting points for walks. It's advisable to research specific trailheads and their parking availability beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Dartmoor National Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees for general access to the moorland and its public areas.
Some car parks within Dartmoor National Park may have parking charges. These are typically managed by local councils or the National Park Authority. Check signage at the car park for details.
Dartmoor National Park is open 24/7, year-round. However, visitor centers and facilities may have specific opening hours. Always check in advance if you plan to visit these.
Yes, various local operators offer guided walks and tours of Dartmoor, catering to different interests like history, wildlife, or photography. Booking in advance is usually recommended.
While wild camping is permitted in certain areas of Dartmoor under specific guidelines (leave no trace, camp away from roads/buildings), it's essential to familiarize yourself with the Dartmoor National Park Authority's wild camping code. No formal permits are usually required for responsible wild camping.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Grimspound circular walk, the route to Hound Tor, and longer treks like the 50km adventure mentioned by visitors.
The variety ranges from gentle strolls to challenging multi-day hikes.Yes, there are accessible paths and shorter walks suitable for families. Areas around visitor centers and some lower-lying paths offer easier terrain. Always supervise children closely, especially near water or uneven ground.
Dartmoor is home to diverse wildlife, including ponies, sheep, various bird species (like skylarks and curlews), and smaller mammals. Keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding any animals.
Yes, there are visitor centers such as the one at Postbridge, offering information, maps, and facilities. These are great starting points for planning your visit and learning about the park's history and nature.
Sturdy walking boots are essential due to the uneven terrain. Wear layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, as the weather can change quickly.
A hat and sunscreen are also advisable.📸 📸 Photography
Iconic locations include Haytor Rocks, Hound Tor, and the ancient stone circles. The dramatic tors, vast moorland, and winding rivers offer endless photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, provide the most dramatic light and long shadows across the moorland. Misty mornings can also create a mystical atmosphere.
A good quality camera, whether a DSLR or a smartphone with a decent camera, will capture the beauty. However, the most important element is your eye for composition and patience to wait for the right light.
Yes, specialized photography tours are offered by local guides who know the best locations and times for capturing stunning images of Dartmoor's landscapes and wildlife.
Dartmoor excels in landscape photography, offering vast panoramas, dramatic rock formations (tors), and atmospheric moorland scenes. It's also great for wildlife and astrophotography due to its dark skies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is a must, and waterproofs are essential as weather can change quickly. The Dartmoor Line train is also a fun and engaging way for families to travel to the park, making the journey part of the adventure.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Safety is paramount for solo hikers. Ensure you have a reliable navigation system, inform someone of your plans, and be aware of your surroundings. The park's wild camping code emphasizes responsible behavior, making it a welcoming environment for those seeking a personal challenge and a deep connection with the landscape.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Visit during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic light. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like Dartmoor ponies and various bird species. Respecting the natural environment and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife is crucial for both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wild Camping on Dartmoor: Know the Rules
Many hikers undertake multi-day adventures, like the 50km routes shared online, which often involve wild camping overnight. It's recommended to camp in small, unobtrusive groups and to move on the next day. Familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines on the Dartmoor National Park website before your trip to ensure you're camping legally and ethically. Being prepared for the elements is key, as Dartmoor's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
Exploring Dartmoor by Train: The Dartmoor Line
Travelers can enjoy picturesque views of the Devon countryside and the edge of the moor as the train winds its way through the landscape. Once you alight, you can explore local towns, access walking trails, or even connect with bus services for further exploration. Planning your journey and booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Hiking and Backpacking Adventures
For the more adventurous, longer routes like the 50km circular treks are highly recommended, offering an immersive experience of Dartmoor's wilderness. It's essential to be well-prepared, with sturdy hiking boots, appropriate clothing for changeable weather, and navigation tools such as maps and compasses or GPS devices. Always inform someone of your route and expected return time, especially when undertaking solo or remote hikes. Respecting the environment and following the principles of 'Leave No Trace' are paramount for preserving Dartmoor's natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit