Attractions and Places To See in Dartmoor - Top 20

Dartmoor is renowned for its granite tors, offering spectacular views. Among the most popular are Haytor Rocks, known for its panoramic vistas, and Hound Tor, a distinctive granite outcrop. For the highest points, consider High Willhays summit and Yes Tor summit, which provide extensive views across North Devon and Cornwall. Other significant natural features include the ancient Wistman's Wood, the dramatic Lydford Gorge with its Whitelady Waterfall, and the serene Burrator Reservoir.

Yes, Dartmoor offers several family-friendly options. Many tors, like Bellever Tor, are accessible for families, with some paths even suitable for pushchairs. Canonteign Falls, home to England's tallest waterfall, provides a blend of natural beauty and activities. The Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centres, particularly in Princetown, offer engaging exhibits about the park's history and wildlife. Bellever Forest is also a great spot for walks and spotting Dartmoor ponies.

Dartmoor is rich in history. You can visit the well-preserved medieval Postbridge Clapper Bridge, the impressive Buckfast Abbey with its stunning architecture and gardens, or the unique Castle Drogo, England's last castle. For a glimpse into ancient history, explore the Bronze Age settlement of Grimspound or the extensive Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement with its stone rows and hut circles. The Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton also provides insights into the region's heritage.

Dartmoor is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For hiking, popular routes include the loop around Haytor Rocks and Greator Rocks, or the challenging ascent to Yes Tor summit and High Willhays summit. Gravel biking routes often explore areas like South Hessary Tor and Burrator Reservoir. You can find detailed routes and guides for these activities on the Hiking in Dartmoor, Mountain Hikes in Dartmoor, and Gravel biking in Dartmoor guide pages.

While popular spots can get busy, Dartmoor has many quieter areas. Consider exploring Fernworthy Reservoir, which is surrounded by wildflower meadows and ancient Bronze Age sites, offering a peaceful experience. The remote Brentor Church, perched high on a crag, provides stunning views and a sense of solitude. For a unique historical insight, visit the extensive remains of The Deserted Village of Hound Tor, a 13th-century settlement.

The best time to visit Dartmoor for outdoor activities generally depends on your preference. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is popular for longer daylight hours, but the moor can be busy. Always be prepared for changeable weather, regardless of the season.

Yes, Dartmoor has various options for food and accommodation. Picturesque villages like Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Chagford, and Lustleigh offer charming pubs, cafes, and guesthouses. The Warren House Inn is famously the highest inn in the southwest of England and a unique spot for a meal. Princetown also provides amenities, including the Princetown Visitor Centre and nearby pubs.

When exploring Dartmoor, it's important to be prepared for its wild and often remote terrain. Weather can change rapidly, so always carry appropriate clothing and navigation tools. Some areas, like near Yes Tor summit, are close to military firing ranges; always check firing times before your visit at dartmoor-ranges.co.uk. Inform someone of your route, especially for longer hikes, and be aware of livestock on the open moor.

Dartmoor's geology is primarily defined by its granite bedrock, which formed approximately 295 million years ago. This granite has eroded over millennia to create the distinctive tors that crown many of its hills, such as Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor. The landscape also features extensive blanket bogs and heathland, shaped by the acidic soils derived from the granite, contributing to its unique ecosystem and scenic beauty.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the tors, such as those found at Haytor Rocks and Yes Tor summit. The unique rock formations, like those at Hound Tor, are also a highlight, often inspiring exploration and photography. Many appreciate the sense of wildness and rugged beauty, along with the opportunity for peaceful walks and the chance to spot Dartmoor ponies.

While much of Dartmoor's terrain is rugged, efforts are made to provide accessible options. Some paths around reservoirs like Burrator Reservoir offer relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces suitable for easier walks. The Dartmoor National Park Authority provides information on accessible routes and facilities. It's advisable to check specific attraction websites or visitor centers for the most up-to-date accessibility information.