Dartmoor National Park

Explore Dartmoor National Park, an unparalleled wilderness in the heart of Devon, boasting breathtaking heather-clad moors and rugged tors.  

History of Dartmoor 

Dartmoor's story stretches back through the mists of time, with evidence of human habitation dating as far back as the Mesolithic period, over 10,000 years ago. The park's granite tors and moorland provided shelter, resources and spiritual significance to its earliest inhabitants. As the ages passed, Bronze Age settlers left their mark in the form of stone circles, hut circles and ritual sites, imbuing Dartmoor with an aura of ancient mystique. Such ancient sites can still be visited today; Grimspound and Scorhill Stone Circles are great examples of them.  

During the medieval period and beyond, Dartmoor became a centre of activity, with the establishment of monasteries, farms and small settlements dotting the landscape. Its vast expanses were utilised for grazing livestock, mining tin and other minerals, as well as providing a refuge for those seeking solitude or sanctuary. 

 In 1951, Dartmoor was designated as a National Park, recognizing its unique natural and cultural heritage and safeguarding it for future generations. Today, Dartmoor stands as a living testament to the resilience of nature and the enduring spirit of human endeavour. Its history is etched into every rocky outcrop, ancient monument, and winding footpath, inviting visitors to explore its rich tapestry of stories and discover the secrets of its past. 

Things to do on Dartmoor  

Uncover endless adventures on Dartmoor. Experience the park firsthand by car or explore its depths on foot, bike or kayak. Dive into the thrill of letterboxing, a beloved family activity, or engage in the modern treasure hunt of Geocaching. Traverse miles of footpaths and tracks, including iconic routes like The Dartmoor Way and West Devon Way.

Take a look at some of the amazing walking and cycling routes on offer at GPS Routes here: https://www.gps-routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/place-walks/dartmoor-top-10-walks

Indulge in unexpected discoveries across Dartmoor. Visit Brent Tor for panoramic views of the landscape, Burrator Reservoir for a relaxing walk along the water, or the granite railway at Haytor. Dive into the charm of Widecombe-in-the-Moor or explore Dartmoor's diverse geology, archaeology and wildlife. Delve deeper into Dartmoor's heritage through guided walks, talks and events offered by the Dartmoor National Park.

Towns & Villages on Dartmoor

Experience the essence of Dartmoor through its distinctive shopping and vibrant culture. Throughout the moorland are several quaint towns and villages such as Tavistock, Ashburton, Chagford and Moretonhampstead. Discover quaint shops offering unique finds, from books and walking gear to artisanal foods and crafts. Immerse yourself in Dartmoor's cultural tapestry with traditional events like Tavistock Goose Fair and the Two Moors Festival. View more towns and villages in Dartmoor and West Devon here. 

For endless inspiration and unforgettable experiences on Dartmoor, explore our curated list of places to visit and things to do below.  

Additionally, uncover even more hidden gems, points of interest and places to visit with Visit Dartmoor's expert recommendations. Head to their website here.