Dartmoor National Park travel guide

Dartmoor National Park, nestled in the heart of Devon, is steeped in rich history. Its story begins over 4,000 years ago in the Bronze Age, with remnants of ancient settlements still visible in the form of stone rows, circles, and hut circles.

The park also witnessed industrial activity in the 18th and 19th centuries, evident from the granite quarries, tin mining ruins and old railway tracks that dot the landscape. Dartmoor was designated as a National Park in 1951, making it one of the first national parks in the UK.

Its diverse landscape of moorland, woodland, and wetland, coupled with its herds of wild ponies, make Dartmoor an irresistible destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Today, with its myriad of archaeological sites, historic buildings, and folklore legends, Dartmoor National Park offers a fascinating journey through time.

Dartmoor National Park is renowned for its striking granite tors, standing stones, and vast moorlands. These raw, weather-beaten landscapes are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including the famous Dartmoor ponies, which roam freely across the moors. This park is also the only place in England where wild camping is legally permitted, making it a paradise for adventurous campers and hikers.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is steeped in cultural heritage. It hosts a staggering 5,000 archaeological sites dating back to prehistoric and medieval times, with the most famous being Grimspound Bronze Age settlement. The park also has a rich literary history, inspiring classic works such as 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Another unique feature is the Dartmoor letterboxing tradition, a type of treasure hunt that originated here in the 19th century and has since spread worldwide.

Located in the dynamic Devon, the popular Dartmoor National Park is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of West Devon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

West Devon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, West Devon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in West Devon and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Tavistock Pannier Market, National Trust - Castle Drogo, National Trust - Lydford Gorge, National Trust - Buckland Abbey, and Burrator Reservoir.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, West Devon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in West Devon, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

Dartmoor National Park is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in West Devon, England. If you're flying in, Bristol Airport is approximately 76.6 miles (123.3 km) away from West Devon. From there, you can easily reach Dartmoor National Park by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in West Devon, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Dartmoor National Park, which is located 8 miles (12.9 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Dartmoor National Park, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is United Kingdom, England.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Dartmoor National Park!

The best time to explore Dartmoor National Park typically spans from late spring to early autumn, with May to September offering the mildest and most predictable weather conditions. The landscape truly comes to life during spring when wildflowers bloom, making it a perfect time for photography and wildlife spotting. Summer months (June to August) are generally warmer and attract more visitors, but the park is large enough to avoid feeling crowded. In autumn, the park takes on a stunning array of colours, attracting leaf-peepers and hikers. In addition to favourable weather, these months also host several events like the Dartmoor Folk Festival in August and Ten Tors Challenge in May. Remember, Dartmoor's weather can be changeable, so pack accordingly. While winters can be harsh, they offer a unique, quieter experience to more adventurous visitors. Overall, the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for British weather.

Conveniently explore Dartmoor National Park and plenty more captivating attractions in West Devon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Dartmoor National Park and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that West Devon has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Dartmoor National Park below.

Aside from Dartmoor National Park, West Devon is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around West Devon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Tavistock Pannier Market, National Trust - Castle Drogo, and National Trust - Lydford Gorge.

Tavistock Pannier Market is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in West Devon, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,700 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Tavistock Pannier Market is Market Rd, Tavistock PL19 0AL, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in West Devon is National Trust - Castle Drogo. Like Tavistock Pannier Market, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 3,200 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Castle Drogo, Drive, Drewsteignton, Exeter EX6 6PB, UK.

National Trust - Lydford Gorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of West Devon. This park and top attraction in West Devon has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,800 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Lydford, Tavistock, Okehampton EX20 4BH, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of West Devon below.