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Widecombe-in-the-Moor

4.6
·491k reviews·Widecombe in the Moor, United Kingdom

A quintessential Dartmoor village offering stunning moorland vistas, historic charm, and access to legendary landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late September

Famous Widecombe Fair

CrowdHigh
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Widecombe-in-the-Moor - Image 1

Widecombe-in-the-Moor

Best Time

Late September

Famous Widecombe Fair

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quintessential Dartmoor village offering stunning moorland vistas, historic charm, and access to legendary landscapes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly magical spot, perfect for escaping into nature and experiencing traditional English village life."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for all weathers

Dartmoor weather is unpredictable! Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer. :cloud_rain:

Wear sturdy walking boots

The moorland terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip is key for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Pancras Church

St. Pancras Church

Village center

Iconic church with a dramatic history, known for its 'Tors' and the legend of Uncle Tom Cobley.

Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park

Surrounding the village

Vast, wild moorland offering breathtaking views and numerous walking trails.

Widecombe Fair

Widecombe Fair

Village green

Famous annual fair with traditional events, livestock, and a lively atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Moorland Charm

Widecombe-in-the-Moor is a picturesque village nestled in Dartmoor National Park. Plan for walking and exploring the rugged landscape. Pack sturdy footwear and waterproofs, as the weather can change rapidly. Consider visiting during a local event for a truly authentic experience.

Getting Around and Staying Connected

While Widecombe is charmingly remote, public transport options are limited. If you plan to explore further afield, a car is recommended. Mobile signal can be patchy in the surrounding moorland, so download offline maps and inform someone of your hiking plans.

Best Times

When
Late September
Why
Famous Widecombe Fair
Crowd
High
When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Best light for moorland walks
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light on the moors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First Time at TS High Whycombe #fyp #foryou #foryourpage #gokarting #gokart #race #racing #teamsport #teamsportmitcham #gopro #teamsportkarting #cars #car #fastandfurious #teamsporthighwycombe
@theteamsportbandit
31.5K likes • 363.6K views

Pack for all weathers

Dartmoor weather is unpredictable! Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer. :cloud_rain:

Wear sturdy walking boots

The moorland terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip is key for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:

The Hellfire Clubs Under West Wycombe Hill, the men who ran empire built caves to desecrate religion and use the vulnerable. These were the same men who starved Bengal and lived off slavery. The cruelty matched in public and in private. #hellfireclub #britishempire #colonialism #History #darkhistory
@alimcforever
31K likes • 259.8K views
| Widecombe-in-the-Moor ~ Dartmoor National Park | 🦔 Why go? This pretty village on Dartmoor is SO worth visiting. There is a gorgeous village green, a church to explore, various shops and some REALLY good places to eat or grab a drink. Wear your walking boots- there are lots of walks from here or within a short drive. ⏰ Spend as long as you want- the prefect place to spend a very wholesome Su...
thedevonexplorers
52 likes • 2K views

Download offline maps

Mobile signal is unreliable on the moors. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:

Check local event schedules

Widecombe hosts many events, including the famous fair. Plan around these for a unique visit! :calendar:

Welcome to Widecombe Fair! Held in the Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor on the second Tuesday of September, it is well known as the subject of a folk song of the same name, featuring Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends 🎶
bbcdevon
48 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for all weathers

Dartmoor weather is unpredictable! Waterproofs and layers are essential, even in summer. :cloud_rain:

Wear sturdy walking boots

The moorland terrain can be uneven and boggy. Good grip is key for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:

Download offline maps

Mobile signal is unreliable on the moors. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation. :iphone:

Check local event schedules

Widecombe hosts many events, including the famous fair. Plan around these for a unique visit! :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Widecombe-in-the-Moor for its stunning natural beauty and traditional charm. The picturesque village and access to Dartmoor's wild landscapes are major draws. Some find the limited public transport and unpredictable weather challenging, but the overall experience is highly regarded for its tranquility and authentic rural atmosphere.

What People Like

Beautiful moorland scenery
Historic village charm
Access to walking trails

What People Dislike

Limited public transport
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Widecombe-in-the-Moor is best reached by car, offering flexibility for exploring Dartmoor. The nearest train stations are Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot, from where you'll need to arrange bus or taxi services. Limited bus routes serve the village, so check timetables carefully if relying on public transport. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park in the village center, which is convenient for accessing local amenities and starting walks. It can get busy, especially during peak season and events like the Widecombe Fair. Reddit

While possible, it requires more planning. You can take a train to Exeter or Newton Abbot and then catch a bus service, though these are infrequent. Having a car offers the most freedom to explore the surrounding Dartmoor National Park. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Widecombe-in-the-Moor itself is a village and Dartmoor National Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees for the village or the surrounding natural landscape. Reddit

Entry to St. Pancras Church is generally free, though donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. Special events or tours may have separate charges. Reddit

The Widecombe Fair typically has an entry fee for visitors, which helps fund the event and local charities. Check the official Widecombe Fair website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular routes include the walk up to the iconic Haytor Rocks, a circular walk taking in Hound Tor, and gentler strolls along the river valleys. The 'Uncle Tom Cobley' walk is also a classic. Always carry a map and compass or use a reliable GPS device. Reddit

Explore the historic St. Pancras Church, visit the local pubs for refreshments, browse the craft shops, and enjoy the village atmosphere. It's a great base for exploring Dartmoor. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy gentle walks on the moor, exploring the village, and visiting the church. The Widecombe Fair is also a fantastic family-friendly event. Ensure children are supervised closely on the moor. Reddit

You might spot Dartmoor ponies, sheep, various bird species including skylarks and buzzards, and if you're lucky, adders or other reptiles. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and not disturb them. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Widecombe has several traditional pubs offering hearty meals, often featuring local produce. There are also tea rooms for lighter bites and cream teas. For more options, nearby towns like Bovey Tracey offer a wider selection. Reddit

Most pubs and tea rooms in Widecombe are accustomed to catering to dietary needs and usually offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices may be more limited, so it's advisable to check menus in advance or inform staff when ordering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic view of St. Pancras Church with the moorland backdrop is a must. For dramatic landscapes, head to nearby tors like Haytor or Hound Tor. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for capturing the expansive moorland. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out colors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Widecombe-in-the-Moor offers a wonderful escape for families. The surrounding Dartmoor National Park provides safe and accessible walking routes suitable for children, with plenty of open space to explore. A visit to St. Pancras Church can spark imagination with its historical tales. The annual Widecombe Fair is a highlight, offering a fun-filled day with animals, games, and traditional entertainment. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure children are supervised at all times, especially near water or on uneven moorland terrain. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Widecombe-in-the-Moor is an ideal base. The village provides access to a network of trails across Dartmoor National Park, catering to all levels of fitness. Popular routes include ascents of Haytor and Hound Tor, offering panoramic views. Experienced hikers can plan multi-day treks, with wild camping being a possibility in designated areas, though always check local regulations and practice responsible camping. Reddit

It's crucial to be well-prepared for Dartmoor's challenging conditions. Always carry a detailed map, compass, and sufficient supplies. Inform someone of your route and expected return time. The unpredictable weather means waterproofs and warm layers are non-negotiable, even on seemingly clear days. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Dartmoor's Wild Heart

Widecombe-in-the-Moor serves as a gateway to the breathtaking expanse of Dartmoor National Park. This ancient landscape is characterized by its rolling hills, granite tors, and vast tracts of heather and gorse. For walkers, the opportunities are endless, from challenging hikes up iconic peaks like Haytor and Hound Tor to gentler riverside strolls. The terrain can be rugged and boggy, so sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing are essential. Always carry a map and compass, or a reliable GPS device, as mobile signal is often poor. Reddit

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot Dartmoor ponies grazing freely, along with various bird species. The changing seasons bring different colors to the moor, with vibrant purple heather in late summer and a stark beauty in winter. Remember to respect the environment by sticking to paths where possible and leaving no trace. The sense of solitude and raw natural beauty is a major draw for visitors seeking an escape into the wild. Reddit

The Legend of St. Pancras Church and the Widecombe Fair

The St. Pancras Church in Widecombe is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, but it's also steeped in local legend. The most famous tale involves a terrifying storm in 1638, where lightning struck the church, killing and injuring many parishioners. This event is immortalized in the popular folk song 'Widecombe Fair,' which tells the story of Uncle Tom Cobley and his companions bringing their grey mare to the fair. Reddit

The Widecombe Fair, held annually in September, is a direct descendant of these historical gatherings. It's a vibrant celebration of rural life, featuring traditional events like pony and livestock shows, craft stalls, local food, and entertainment. The fair draws large crowds and offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique culture and community spirit of the area. Planning your visit around the fair can provide a truly memorable and lively experience. Reddit

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