Dartmoor in winter

by Coast And Country / Area Guides

Dartmoor National Park, which is just a shortish drive from Salcombe and Dartmouth, is one of South Devon’s most beautiful places to explore all year round. Dartmoor in winter is a great time to explore what the moor has to offer. Accessing the moors from either Ashburton, South Brent or Ivybridge close to the A38, the high banked Devon lanes climb up to meet the open expanse of the moor which offers an enjoyable driving experience. Whatever route you choose to access, there are many opportunities along the way to park up and take in the fantastic view.

Covering an area of 368 square miles, Dartmoor is the largest and wildest area of open country in Southern England, and is well known for its great opportunities to actively explore through walking, mountain biking, horse riding, climbing and kayaking. These are just a few of the activities, which many visitors to the National Park enjoy year round. Mountain bikes can be hired from many outlets across the moor and there are an abundance of riding stables that offer trekking experiences that cater for a range of abilities.

Things to do on Dartmoor in winter

A great starting point for any visit to the moors is to check out one of the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centres. In particular the newly refurbished visitor centre in Princetown, at the heart of Dartmoor, should not be missed. The centre features new and interesting exhibitions, displays and discovery zones and a stunning photography exhibition, ‘Dartmoor Timelapse’. The centre’s locally based team offer knowledgeable guidance, information and safety advice for visitors to get the best out of a trip to the moor. They stock an extensive range of maps, publications and guide books, in addition to gifts, cards, clothing and stationery. Admission to the centre and exhibition area is free.

Princetown is also home to Dartmoor Prison and the Dartmoor Prison Museum which attracts over 35,000 visitors every year from all over the world. The vividly portrayed exhibitions and displays of artefacts span 200 years of a turbulent history and are definitely worth a visit, particularly on a wet and moody day where you can get an idea of what prison life 200 years ago was really like.

Dartmoor is famed as being the location for many films including the 2012 blockbuster, Warhorse. Locations throughout The National Park were used many times during filming including Ringmoor Down, Combestone Tor, Haytor, Hexworthy Bridge, Cadover Bridge and Brisworthy. The Dartmoor visitor centres that are situated across the moor have information, guidebooks and maps giving guidance of where you can walk, cycle or even horseride across the location used for the film.

For even more inspiration, be sure to read our blog post detailing our favourite Dartmoor day trips.

Dartmoor in winter

Where to find sumptuous food on Dartmoor in winter

There are many eateries on Dartmoor that are perfect for visiting to warm up on a Winter’s day after a bracing walk. Here are three that we recommend:

1) The Warren House Inn, right in the middle of the moor where you are spoilt for choice with dramatic views. The log fire here has been burning continuously since 1845!

2) The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe in the Moor. This cosy 18^th century pub features an open log fire and has a wonderful ‘home from home’ atmosphere.

3) Tea at Taylors, Ashburton. This lovely traditional tea room is the perfect location for enjoying a Devon cream tea. It used to be an antique shop and still has items on display/for sale.

So what are you waiting for! Pack your walking boots, waterproofs, and a flask and head off to explore this beautiful National Park in beautiful South Devon.

Dartmoor in winter - The Rugglestone Inn