Princetown Visitor Centre
Your free gateway to Dartmoor's history, wildlife, and walking trails. Packed with info and friendly advice!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal help
Princetown Visitor Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal help
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your free gateway to Dartmoor's history, wildlife, and walking trails. Packed with info and friendly advice!
"A great resource for Dartmoor and Princetown, with fascinating displays and helpful staff."
Free Entry, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations help keep this vital resource running! :heart:
Ask Staff for Walk Ideas
Staff are incredibly helpful with personalized walk recommendations. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dartmoor History & Wildlife Displays
Engaging exhibits on local history, geology, and wildlife. Interactive fun for all ages!
Hound of the Baskervilles Exhibition
Explore the local connection to Conan Doyle's famous Sherlock Holmes story.
Local Books & Gifts
Discover a curated selection of books on Dartmoor and unique souvenirs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Your Dartmoor Gateway
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations help keep this vital resource running! :heart:
Ask Staff for Walk Ideas
Staff are incredibly helpful with personalized walk recommendations. :hiking_boot:
Visiting Dartmoor / Hexworthy Mine
Hiking in Dartmoor/Torquay area
Kid-Friendly Interactive Fun
Great for kids! Try on a prison outfit or explore the Hound of the Baskervilles exhibit. :child:
Local History Deep Dive
Fascinating displays on Dartmoor's geology, history, and wildlife. :earth_americas:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations help keep this vital resource running! :heart:
Ask Staff for Walk Ideas
Staff are incredibly helpful with personalized walk recommendations. :hiking_boot:
Kid-Friendly Interactive Fun
Great for kids! Try on a prison outfit or explore the Hound of the Baskervilles exhibit. :child:
Local History Deep Dive
Fascinating displays on Dartmoor's geology, history, and wildlife. :earth_americas:
Unique Souvenirs & Books
Find local history books and gifts not available elsewhere. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Princetown Visitor Centre as a valuable and informative resource for exploring Dartmoor. Its free entry, engaging displays on local history and wildlife, and exceptionally helpful staff make it a must-visit. While parking machines can sometimes be an issue, the overall experience is highly positive, offering something for all ages.
"A great place to visit. Free to enter (donation points dotted around or you can donate at the till). Shop was good, and relevant items on sale which was nice. But the main point was all the displays on local (ie Dartmoor) history and wildlife. Plenty of interactive activities for kids and adults alike.
All in all a great resource for Dartmoor and Princetown"
Andy Everitt
"Car park machine was out of order. Went into pay for a parking ticket.
The staff were really helpful and gave me some ideas of different walks."
Jon Simpson
"101% recommend, very informative, excellent displays and its all free!Includes ancient history of Dartmoor, including geology. Current special display Dartmoor in the 1920's, fascinating because that's when my parents were growing up in the area."
Amanda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The visitor centre is located in Princetown on Dartmoor. Driving is the most common way to access it, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving.
Yes, parking is available near the visitor centre. Be aware that parking ticket machines can sometimes be out of order, so have a backup plan or check with staff.
If you are staying in Princetown, walking is certainly an option. For those exploring Dartmoor, it's a central point to start or end your walks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Princetown Visitor Centre is free! However, they do have donation points and a till for voluntary contributions to support their work.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm current opening times before your visit.
As entry is free, no advance booking is required. You can simply turn up during opening hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find fascinating displays on Dartmoor's history, geology, and wildlife, including interactive exhibits for kids. There's also a special exhibition on the Hound of the Baskervilles and a shop selling local books and gifts.
Absolutely! Children can enjoy interactive displays, and there's even a chance to dress up in a prison outfit. It's a great way to engage younger visitors with Dartmoor's heritage.
Yes, the visitor centre is an excellent resource for maps of Dartmoor. The staff are very helpful and can provide personalized recommendations for walks and hikes based on your interests and fitness level.
Yes, there's a shop selling a good range of relevant items, including books on Dartmoor's history and nature, as well as other souvenirs.
The centre often hosts special exhibitions. Recent ones have included a photography exhibition by Dartmoor employees and a display on Dartmoor in the 1920s.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Princetown Visitor Centre itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, there are usually cafes and pubs in the nearby town of Princetown where you can find refreshments.
While there might not be dedicated picnic areas inside the centre, Dartmoor itself offers numerous beautiful spots for picnics. You can pick up supplies in Princetown.
📸 📸 Photography
The visitor centre itself has informative displays, but the real photographic opportunities lie in the surrounding Dartmoor landscape. The centre can provide inspiration for where to go.
Yes, the gift shop often stocks a variety of books, which may include photography collections showcasing Dartmoor's stunning scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Staff are very helpful in suggesting family-friendly walks and activities suitable for younger legs. It's a great place to break up a journey or start a day of exploration on Dartmoor, offering educational fun without breaking the bank.
📚 History Buffs & Book Lovers
The gift shop is particularly noteworthy for its selection of books on Dartmoor. You can find detailed guides, historical accounts, and local folklore, making it the perfect place to pick up reading material to deepen your understanding of the area.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the staff can help you find the perfect walk to suit your abilities and interests, ensuring a safe and rewarding experience on the moors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Dartmoor's Heritage
One of the most engaging aspects is the interactive nature of the exhibits, making history accessible and fun for all ages. Whether you're interested in the industrial past, the natural environment, or local folklore, the centre provides a comprehensive overview. It's a great place to get context before heading out to explore the actual sites.
Don't miss the special exhibitions, which often delve into specific periods or themes, such as Dartmoor in the 1920s or local photography. These provide a deeper, more focused look at aspects of Dartmoor life and culture.
Planning Your Dartmoor Walks
Many visitors rave about the helpfulness of the staff in suggesting routes that might not be obvious from maps alone. They can advise on trail conditions, potential hazards, and points of interest along the way. This local knowledge is crucial for making the most of your time on the moors and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beyond just walks, the centre can also inform you about other attractions in the area, including historical sites, natural landmarks, and viewpoints. It’s the perfect place to get oriented and gather all the information you need before embarking on your Dartmoor adventure.
The Hound of the Baskervilles Connection
You can learn about how the wild, atmospheric moors inspired Conan Doyle and discover the local landmarks that may have influenced the story. It's a fascinating glimpse into the literary heritage of the region and adds another layer of intrigue to your visit.
This exhibition is often highlighted as a fun and engaging element, especially for families, providing a memorable link between literature and the real-world setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit