Dartmoor On A Map
Located in the county of Devon in England, Dartmoor is a vast and rugged moorland known for its natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. With its rolling hills, stunning landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna, it is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to Dartmoor, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Top Attractions
Dartmoor is home to a wide range of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Some of the top attractions include:
Castle Drogo
Castle Drogo is a magnificent castle built in the early 20th century and is the last castle to be built in England. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the River Teign.
Princetown
Princetown is a small village that is famous for its prison, Dartmoor Prison, which has been in operation since the 1800s. The village is also home to the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre.
Buckland Abbey
Buckland Abbey is a 700-year-old monastery that has been converted into a stately home. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its history and architecture.
Hidden Gems
Dartmoor is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Some of the hidden gems include:
Grimspound
Grimspound is an ancient settlement that dates back to the Bronze Age. It is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about Dartmoor’s history and culture.
Bellever Forest
Bellever Forest is a beautiful forest that is home to a wide range of wildlife. It is a great place to go hiking, camping, or simply enjoy a picnic with your family.
Brentor Church
Brentor Church is a small church that is perched on top of a hill. It offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great place to visit if you want to escape the crowds.
Food Scene
Dartmoor is known for its traditional English food, which is hearty and filling. Some of the top dishes to try include:
Pasties
Pasties are a type of pastry that is filled with meat, vegetables, and gravy. They are a popular snack in Dartmoor and are available in most cafes and restaurants.
Cream Tea
Cream Tea is a traditional English afternoon tea that includes scones, clotted cream, and jam. It is a must-try when visiting Dartmoor.
Cider
Dartmoor is famous for its cider, which is made from locally grown apples. It is a refreshing drink that is perfect for a hot summer day.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Dartmoor doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money on accommodation. There are plenty of campsites in Dartmoor that offer basic facilities at a reasonable price.
Picnics
Picnics are a great way to save money on food. You can buy supplies from a local supermarket and enjoy a picnic in one of Dartmoor’s many scenic spots.
Free Attractions
There are plenty of free attractions in Dartmoor that are worth visiting. For example, you can explore the moors, go for a walk, or visit one of the many churches and villages.
Outdoor Adventures
Dartmoor is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures to try:
Hiking
Dartmoor has some of the best hiking trails in England. With its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, it is a great place to go hiking.
Cycling
Dartmoor has plenty of cycling routes that cater to all abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a cycling route for you.
Horse Riding
Dartmoor is a great place to go horse riding. You can explore the moors on horseback and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Historical Landmarks
Dartmoor is steeped in history and is home to many historical landmarks. Here are some of the top landmarks to visit:
Chagford Church
Chagford Church is a beautiful church that dates back to the 13th century. It is known for its stunning stained glass windows and impressive architecture.
Lydford Castle
Lydford Castle is a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. It is surrounded by stunning countryside and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its history and architecture.
Okehampton Castle
Okehampton Castle is a ruined castle that dates back to the 11th century. It is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about Dartmoor’s history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Dartmoor is a great place to visit with your family. Here are some family-friendly activities to try:
Pennywell Farm
Pennywell Farm is a family-friendly farm that offers a range of activities, including animal feeding, tractor rides, and pony rides.
Tamar Trails Centre
Tamar Trails Centre is a great place to go if you want to try some outdoor activities with your family, including canoeing, tree surfing, and archery.
Dartmoor Miniature Pony and Animal Farm
Dartmoor Miniature Pony and Animal Farm is a great place to take your kids if they love animals. They can meet and feed a range of animals, including miniature ponies, goats, and rabbits.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to explore Dartmoor off the beaten path, here are some experiences to try:
Wild Camping
Wild camping is a great way to explore Dartmoor off the beaten path. You can camp in the wilderness and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Letterboxing
Letterboxing is a popular activity in Dartmoor. It involves following clues to find hidden boxes and stamps.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a modern treasure hunt that uses GPS technology to find hidden containers.
Natural Wonders
Dartmoor is home to many natural wonders. Here are some of the top natural wonders to visit:
Hound Tor
Hound Tor is a stunning rock formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Becky Falls
Becky Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Burrator Reservoir
Burrator Reservoir is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by stunning natural scenery. It is a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.
Vibrant Nightlife
Dartmoor may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still plenty of places to go if you want to have a good time. Here are some of the top nightlife spots:
The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak is a traditional English pub that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is a great place to go for a drink and some good conversation.
The Dartmoor Inn
The Dartmoor Inn is a popular pub that offers a range of drinks and food. It is known for its live music and friendly atmosphere.
The Horse and Groom
The Horse and Groom is a traditional English pub that offers a range of drinks and food. It is a great place to go if you want to relax and unwind.
Local Markets
Dartmoor is home to many local markets that offer a range of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. Here are some of the top markets to visit:
Tavistock Pannier Market
Tavistock Pannier Market is a popular market that offers a range of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It is open every day except Sunday.
Moretonhampstead Market
Moretonhampstead Market is a popular market that offers a range of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It is open every Tuesday.
Chagford Market
Chag