Places to visit and things to do on Dartmoor
Dartmoor is a unique place – home to rare species and diverse landscape with incredible heritage and wildlife.
Dartmoor became a National Park in 1951 so has just celebrated its 70th birthday in 2021. At 368 square miles it boasts special habitats that are the result of both geology and human impact over 4,500 years. You can find the remains of villages where people lived in the Bronze Age and many medieval landmarks including clapper bridges, stone crosses and hut circles as you take a walk across the moor. You may even come across the longest prehistoric stone row in the world! The beautiful River Teign, River Bovey and River Dart all flow across the landscape and are tranquil peaceful places to walk the dog and stop for a picnic on a sunny day. 90% of Dartmoor’s land is used for farming and there are many local people, farmers and communities that want to protect this precious place.
If you take a scenic drive across Dartmoor you could stop off at one of 3 award-winning visitor centres in Princetown, Haytor and Postbridge where knowledgeable staff will help you plan a walk or mountain bike ride and you can pick up a unique souvenir of your trip. The moorland towns of Bovey Tracey, Tavistock, Ashburton, Chagford and Okehampton all boast an array of local shops, cafes and pubs where you could linger over a delicious cream tea. You’ll also find some amazing arts and crafts from paintings to home made soap to bring home plus an award winning gin distillery, Dartmoor Distillery, in Newton Abbot. If you prefer not to drive a new train route, the Dartmoor Line, operated by GWR also operates between Exeter and Okehampton where you can enjoy the wonderful views from a comfy seat and leave the car behind!
Dartmoor is dog-friendly but you need to be aware of farm animals grazing on the moor and dogs must be kept on leads from 1 March to 31 July to protect ground nesting birds and newborn lambs, calves and foals.
Whatever outdoor activity you love, you won’t be short of ideas for things to do, there is a place on Dartmoor where you can try it out from rock-climbing and bouldering, wild swimming, kayaking, horse-riding, mountain-biking and you can even take your family caving. Dartmoor guarantees a great day out in Devon. In addition there are some brilliant tourist attractions across the moor including:
Devon days out on Dartmoor!
Dartmoor is also home to two of Devon’s Top Attractions and are both top places to visit and enjoy in Devon. They are both hidden gems and showcase Natural Devon at its very best.
Becky Falls
Situated on Dartmoor and centred on a waterfall of approximately 20 metres, an iconic landmark! Explore the 50 acres of stunning woodlands don’t forget to collect your stamp trail cards and explorer backpack when you arrive. Before you set off on one of the woodland trails head over to the petting area and meet some of the friendly residents, there are opportunities throughout the day to meet the keepers so that’s something to not forget. When it’s time to take a break or a spot of lunch head for the lovely woodland café once your refuelled and ready for another adventure get ready to take on another trail (something for all abilities).
Canonteign Falls
There are two sets of waterfalls at Canonteign; the natural falls and the spectacular Lady Exmoor Falls named after the 3rd Lady Exmouth and built under her direction in 1890. There are not just one or two lakes here, but seven! including the Lily Lake and Swan Lake. The lower lakes provide fascinating walks with a vast selection of wildlife in their natural habitat. You can make your own way around exploring or follow one of the three walks available designed to provide something for all ages and abilities, all will look different depending on the season. Don’t forget to rest those feet and enjoy the various views with a drink or light bite from the café!
River Dart Country Park
The park is packed with activities, so you’ll need to arrive early for a action packed day out or stay longer and explore more of Devon from the award winning campsite and holiday park as your base. Set in 90 acres of parkland within Dartmoor National Park, the River Dart Country Park is perfect for all the family. Commando assault course (for big and small children!), pirate ship, toddlers beach, zip wires, jungle fun there is an adventure around each corner.
Buckfast Abbey
Forms part of active Benedictine monastery at Buckfast a sense of serenity on the edge of Dartmoor. The Abbey is home to a working community of monks, visitors can enjoy the extensive grounds; including the sensory, physic and award winning Millennium Gardens. A highlight during the warmer summer moths is the Lavender Gardens boasting 50 varieties of the colourful plant. The Abbey Church is a centre of musical excellence and hosts choirs and performers from near and far, whilst being a haven of peace.
Explore Devon
Simply click on any of the map markers to discover all the exciting attractions Devon has to offer.