
Templer Way
Explore Dartmoor's wild beauty: ancient forests, dramatic tors, and unique wild camping. A haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Nature awakens, fewer crowds

Templer Way
Best Time
Nature awakens, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Dartmoor's wild beauty: ancient forests, dramatic tors, and unique wild camping. A haven for hikers and nature lovers.
"Dartmoor offers a unique blend of ancient woodlands, rugged tors, and the cherished right to wild camp."

Pack for all weather
Dartmoor weather can change rapidly. Layers are key! :cloud: :umbrella:
Wild camping is special
Respect the land and current rules. It's a privilege! :tent:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Teign Walk
River Teign
Enjoy a scenic walk along the River Teign, spotting diverse birdlife. A truly peaceful experience.

Wistman's Wood
Near West Dart River
Step into an ancient, moss-draped oak forest that feels like a fairy tale. Magical and enchanting.

Foggintor Quarry
Near Princetown
Explore this unique, abandoned quarry with striking blue waters. Accessible via old railway tracks.

Lydford Gorge
Western Dartmoor
Discover the deepest river gorge in the Southwest, featuring a dramatic 30m waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wild Camping Rights
Tide Times Matter
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather
Dartmoor weather can change rapidly. Layers are key! :cloud: :umbrella:
Wild camping is special
Respect the land and current rules. It's a privilege! :tent:
Check tide times
Essential for river walks like the Teign. Don't get caught out! :clock:
Wear sturdy boots
Trails can be uneven and boggy. Good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather
Dartmoor weather can change rapidly. Layers are key! :cloud: :umbrella:
Wild camping is special
Respect the land and current rules. It's a privilege! :tent:
Check tide times
Essential for river walks like the Teign. Don't get caught out! :clock:
Wear sturdy boots
Trails can be uneven and boggy. Good footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Bring a map & compass
Mobile signal can be unreliable. Be prepared to navigate. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Dartmoor for its stunning natural beauty, from ancient woodlands to dramatic quarries and scenic river walks. The opportunity for wild camping is a significant draw, though its future is uncertain. Some find the weather unpredictable and trails challenging.
"Good walk along the river Teign, with very interesting places and lot of different types of birds. It's a good idea to check the tide schedule before walking."
Dimitrova Georgieva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dartmoor is accessible by car via major roads like the A38. Public transport options include buses from Exeter and Plymouth. Train stations are located in towns like Okehampton and Ivybridge, with onward bus connections.
Yes, numerous car parks are scattered throughout Dartmoor, especially near popular walking routes and villages. Some are free, while others have a small charge.
Absolutely! While a car offers flexibility, you can explore Dartmoor using local bus services connecting key towns and villages. Cycling is also a popular option.
For extensive exploration, a car is recommended. However, for specific areas like the River Teign or Wistman's Wood, public transport combined with walking is feasible.
Yes, several local companies offer guided walks and tours, providing insights into the history, geology, and folklore of Dartmoor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Dartmoor National Park itself does not have an entrance fee. Access to the park and most of its natural areas is free.
While the park is free, some specific attractions like Lydford Gorge may have admission fees and require booking, especially during peak season.
Dartmoor is open 24/7 as it's a natural landscape. However, visitor centers and specific attractions will have their own operating hours.
Historically, wild camping on Dartmoor was permitted without a permit under certain conditions. However, this right is currently under legal challenge, so it's crucial to check the latest regulations before planning.
Yes, Dartmoor is a year-round destination. Each season offers a different beauty, from spring blooms to winter frost.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the River Teign walk, routes to Wistman's Wood, and paths around Foggintor Quarry. The Ten Tors Challenge route is also iconic.
Yes, Dartmoor offers many family-friendly activities, including gentle walks, exploring historical sites, and spotting wildlife. Lydford Gorge can be exciting for older children.
Dartmoor is home to diverse birdlife, ponies, and various other animals. Keep an eye out during your walks, especially near rivers.
Yes, Dartmoor has a rich history, including ancient standing stones, burial sites, and remnants of old industrial activity like Foggintor Quarry.
Dress in layers, wear waterproofs, and sturdy walking boots. The weather can be unpredictable, and trails can be boggy.
📸 📸 Photography
Wistman's Wood offers ethereal forest shots, Foggintor Quarry provides dramatic landscapes, and the tors offer panoramic views. The River Teign is also picturesque.
Golden hours (sunrise and sunset) offer beautiful light for landscapes. Misty mornings can add a mystical atmosphere, especially in Wistman's Wood.
Generally, no special permit is needed for personal photography. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permissions.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture wildlife. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Some local guides offer photography-focused tours, helping you find the best locations and capture stunning images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for unpredictable weather with waterproofs and layers. Exploring the tors can be exciting, but ensure children stay within safe viewing areas. Many visitor centers offer educational materials that can make the experience more engaging for kids.
🎒 Backpackers & Wild Campers
Crucially, stay informed about the current legal status of wild camping, as regulations can change. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine nature of the moor. Be prepared for self-sufficiency, as amenities can be scarce in remote areas.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Always check the weather forecast before setting out and carry appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, waterproofs, and a map and compass. Consider exploring less-trodden paths for a more solitary experience and to truly connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Wild Camping
However, it's crucial to be aware that this right has been subject to legal challenges. Recent court cases have cast doubt on the future of wild camping on Dartmoor. It is highly recommended to stay informed about the latest regulations and guidelines from official sources before planning any wild camping trips to ensure you are compliant and respectful of the environment.
When wild camping, always practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out everything you pack in, minimizing your impact on the environment, and respecting wildlife and other visitors. Responsible wild camping ensures this privilege can continue for future generations.
Exploring Dartmoor's Unique Landscapes
For a different kind of dramatic scenery, Foggintor Quarry offers a striking visual with its deep blue waters set against the rugged, abandoned quarry landscape. It's a testament to Dartmoor's industrial past and now a unique natural feature. Further west, Lydford Gorge presents a more dramatic, vertical landscape, boasting the deepest river gorge in the Southwest and a spectacular 30-meter waterfall.
Beyond these specific sites, the general Dartmoor landscape is characterized by its vast open spaces, dotted with granite outcrops (tors) that offer panoramic views. Walking routes, such as those along the River Teign, provide a gentler experience, rich with birdlife and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The terrain can be challenging, so sturdy footwear and preparedness for changing weather are essential for enjoying these diverse environments.
The Importance of Respecting the Environment
When visiting, always adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace. This means taking all your litter with you, staying on marked paths where appropriate to prevent erosion, and being mindful of livestock and wildlife. The delicate ecosystems of Dartmoor can be easily damaged, so minimizing your impact is paramount.
Furthermore, understanding and respecting local bylaws and any evolving regulations, especially concerning activities like wild camping, is crucial. By being a responsible visitor, you help preserve Dartmoor's unique character and ensure it remains a special place for generations to come.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit