5 Places to Visit in Dartmoor

Beautiful South Devon is not only known for its spectacular coastal path and stunning beaches. But also its close proximity to the rugged, picturesque landscape of Dartmoor National Park. Within an hour’s drive of the South Hams, and with plenty of places to visit in Dartmoor, this is the perfect place to head for an amazing day trip!

Whether you fancy ‘letterboxing’, geo-caching, horse riding, or simply treading the wealth of Dartmoor walks situated in this unspoilt National Park. This really is a fascinating place to spend the day. The setting of many ancient tales, and the filming location for Steven Spielberg’s 2012 film War Horse, you won’t be disappointed by Dartmoor’s exquisite beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek across windswept moors or just a relaxing stroll through secluded woods, you’ve come to the right place. Dartmoor has it all. Blaze your own trail, be a pioneer, explore and take the less-trodden route…

5 of the Best Places to Visit in Dartmoor

Use the quick links below to discover our favourite places to visit in Dartmoor:

1. Spitchwick Common
2. Cadover Bridge and Lakes
3. Haytor
4. Wistmans Wood
5. Bellever Forest

1. Spitchwick Common

Car park postcode: TQ13 7NT

Situated near Ashburton, Spitchwick Common is a perfect picnic and wild swimming spot. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the common, before taking a refreshing dip in the river. The lush green space and the gentle flow of the river Dart make it an idyllic location for a family day out.

The area is also popular with canoeists and kayakers, making it a lively spot on warm summer days. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, as the scenic surroundings make for a perfect al fresco dining experience.

2. Cadover Bridge and Lakes

Car park postcode: PL7 5EH

This stunning area is one of our favourite places to visit in Dartmoor and a great starting point for many walks and trails. With spacious green areas perfect for setting down your picnic blanket and natural pools for the children to paddle in,

Cadover Bridge encapsulates everything you would expect from a family day on Dartmoor. An ice cream van often frequents the area too, providing a delightful treat on sunny days. Burrator Reservoir, also nearby, is popular with walkers and cyclists due to its wealth of footpaths. Here, you can explore the reservoir’s edge, discover hidden waterfalls, and enjoy the serene beauty of the water surrounded by woodland.

3. Haytor

Visitor centre postcode: TQ13 9XT

On the southeastern edge of Dartmoor, Haytor boasts spectacular views. A famed beauty spot near the historic village of Widecombe-on-the-Moor, with its popular pubs, Haytor is a must-visit.

Why not climb the imposing granite Haytor Rock, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding moorland, before heading back for a well-deserved lunch? The area is also rich in wildlife, and bird watchers can often spot buzzards and other birds of prey soaring above the tor.

4. Wistmans Wood

Car park postcode: PL20 6QF (adjacent to the Two Bridges Hotel)

This site takes its name from a small oak wood, creating an amazing and enchanted woodland important for the mosses and lichens that festoon the trees and the impressive granite boulders found on the site. However, this National Nature Reserve of 170 hectares mainly consists of a model example of upland heathland and has a wealth of moorland birds.

Wistman’s Wood, located in the Dart River valley, offers views of wild Devon that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. The mystical atmosphere of the twisted oak trees and the ancient boulders make it a photographer’s dream and a place of legend and folklore.

5. Bellever Forest

Car park postcode: PL20 6TP

Bellever Forest near Postbridge is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dartmoor, perfect for a Dartmoor walk.

Whether it’s a gentle stroll by the East Dart River or an exhilarating walk up to Bellever Tor, its beautiful and tranquil setting is a great place to visit with the whole family. It’s also a wonderful place to bring dogs for a walk, with plenty of space for them to burn energy and a beautiful river for a swim or a quick drink. It’s advisable to keep dogs on a lead around the picnic area.

There is a circular route along forestry tracks with stunning views out across open moorland and the opportunity to make a detour up Bellever Tor (3-mile loop). Or why not try a peaceful walk through the forest, where you may stumble across silent hut circles, grazing ponies, and even deer (2.5 miles)? The forest is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare butterflies and birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Holiday cottages near Dartmoor

Discover the magic of Dartmoor with a stay in a charming holiday cottage in South Devon. Immerse yourself in nature, explore ancient woodlands, and uncover hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Don’t miss out on the chance to relax and rejuvenate. Click below to browse our selection of holiday cottages in South Devon and secure your ideal escape.

Book a holiday cottage near Dartmoor