Given National Park status in 1951, Dartmoor sits in the south of county Devon, southwest England, and covers an area of 365 square miles. Almost half the park is moor, a haven for wildlife and those wishing to escape the rigours of city life. Every year thousands of visitors challenge themselves by hiking in Dartmoor National Park.
Dartmoor Forest, owned by the Duchy of Cornwall since 1307, is a former royal hunting ground and makes up the vast majority of the region. The grass and heather moors are littered with hefty granite boulders scattered amongst the rolling hills. Wild ponies graze among the barren hills; despite running wild, all have human owners and are gathered annually each autumn.
Approximately 10% of the moor is woodland, much of it running along the tranquil river valleys.
Dartmoor history
Stone circles and burial chambers are testament to Dartmoor’s historic and enigmatic past. Indeed, Dartmoor is famous not only for its beautiful landscapes. It was within the little village of Grimspound that Sherlock Holmes found himself investigating the hound of the Baskervilles.
Dartmoor was one of Europe’s biggest tin mining areas back in the 12th century. The stone built homes of the miners can still be found along many of the regions streams and rivers.
Abbot’s Way runs across the southern part of the moor, racing across wild country and moorland bogs. The region is thought to be named after the abbots who are thought to have used this path when travelling between Buckland Abbey and Buckfast Abbey. Man’s presence over the ages is evident in this barren land. Hut circles dating back to the Bronze and Iron ages remain today.
South of Abbots Way sits Harford Moor. The Middle Ages drew tin miners from far and wide seeking riches below the surface. Today visitors are drawn by the vast wilderness and wildlife. A medieval cross adorns Harford Church, one of many in the area which once served as signposts for those travelling across the moors.
Becky Falls Woodland Park first opened to the public in 1903. Some of the most enjoyable walks in England’s southwest can be had here amongst the delightful waterfalls and huge granite slabs.
To the west is Upper Plym Valley and a beautiful array of plants and wildlife. The tracks in these parts are somewhat easier to navigate than many others in the moors and provide much of interest along the way. The spectacular moorland scenery is interspersed with abandoned tin mines dating back over a century and various prehistoric relics including stone and hut circles.
Visiting Dartmoor
The Dartmoor National Park tourist website has a lot of information to help visitors. They run several visitor centres which are good places to start planning your visit. Dartmoor is one of the few places in England where you are allowed to wild camp as long as you can carry everything you need. You can also find information about hostels, campsites for larger tents and campervans and other types of holiday accomodation.
The bare granite hilltops are known as tors and most visitors like to climb at least one. If you succeed you can reward yourself with a Devon cream tea or a pint in a cosy village pub. Visitors to Dartmoor can also enjoy horse riding, wild swimming or fishing.
It is a good idea to buy the O.S. explorer map of Dartmoor and use it to plan suitable walking routes. Miles without stiles routes are suitable for alll terrain mobility scooters.
Why Hike Dartmoor?
For those seeking solitude, Dartmoor’s vastness provides plenty of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. And for those who love a challenge, the park’s unpredictable weather and rugged trails will keep you on your toes.
Top Hiking Routes
- Haytor and Hound Tor Loop
- Distance: ~5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- This circular route takes you past two iconic tors, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding moorland. Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations and even the remains of a medieval village near Hound Tor.
- The Two Moors Way
- Distance: ~102 miles (full route)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- For the ambitious, this long-distance trail traverses Dartmoor and Exmoor, showcasing the best of Devon’s natural beauty. The Dartmoor section is particularly stunning, with its mix of open moorland and lush river valleys.
- Lydford Gorge Walk
- Distance: ~3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Perfect for families or those looking for a shorter hike, this trail winds through a dramatic gorge, complete with waterfalls and ancient woodland. The Devil’s Cauldron whirlpool is a must-see!
Tips for Hiking Dartmoor
- Be Prepared for the Weather: Dartmoor’s weather is famously unpredictable. Always pack waterproofs, even if the forecast looks clear. Layers are your best friend!
Navigation is Key: The moor can be disorienting, especially in misty conditions. Bring a map, compass, or GPS device, and know how to use them.
Respect the Wildlife: Dartmoor is home to wild ponies, sheep, and other animals. Admire them from a distance and avoid feeding them.
Leave No Trace: Help preserve Dartmoor’s beauty by taking all your rubbish with you and sticking to marked paths where possible.
A Place of Legends
Dartmoor isn’t just about the scenery—it’s steeped in folklore and mystery. From tales of ghostly hounds to the legend of the Hairy Hands, the moor has inspired countless stories and even served as the setting for Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles. As you hike, you might find yourself imagining the myths coming to life in the misty, otherworldly landscape.
Final Thoughts
Hiking on Dartmoor is an experience like no other. It’s a chance to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of one of England’s most enchanting landscapes. Whether you’re scaling a tor, wandering through ancient woods, or simply soaking in the views, Dartmoor will leave you with memories to treasure.
So lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and let Dartmoor’s wild spirit guide you. Adventure awaits! - Navigation is Key: The moor can be disorienting, especially in misty conditions. Bring a map, compass, or GPS device, and know how to use them.
- Respect the Wildlife: Dartmoor is home to wild ponies, sheep, and other animals. Admire them from a distance and avoid feeding them.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve Dartmoor’s beauty by taking all your rubbish with you and sticking to marked paths where possible.
Dartmoor isn’t just about the scenery—it’s steeped in folklore and mystery. From tales of ghostly hounds to the legend of the Hairy Hands, the moor has inspired countless stories and even served as the setting for Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles. As you hike, you might find yourself imagining the myths coming to life in the misty, otherworldly landscape.
Final Thoughts
Hiking on Dartmoor is an experience like no other. It’s a chance to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of one of England’s most enchanting landscapes. Whether you’re scaling a tor, wandering through ancient woods, or simply soaking in the views, Dartmoor will leave you with memories to treasure.
So lace up your boots, pack your essentials, and let Dartmoor’s wild spirit guide you. Adventure awaits!
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