
Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR
Discover ancient woodlands, serene rivers, and wild heathland on Dartmoor. A peaceful escape with diverse scenery and wildlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the crowds, enjoy the sunshine

Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR
Best Time
Escape the crowds, enjoy the sunshine

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient woodlands, serene rivers, and wild heathland on Dartmoor. A peaceful escape with diverse scenery and wildlife.
"Stunning walks through woodlands and grassy glades as well as along the river. Very quiet and peaceful - totally brilliant on a Summer day."

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be steep and uneven. Ensure you have good walking shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Embrace Exploration
Marked trails can be inconsistent. Enjoy creating your own route and discovering hidden gems. :compass:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Woodland Trails
Yarner Wood
Wander through a medieval-feeling forest with diverse flora and fauna. A truly immersive nature experience.

Riverside Serenity
East Dart River
Follow the gentle flow of the river, discovering old bridges and tranquil basins. Perfect for peaceful contemplation.

Heathland with Wild Ponies
East Dartmoor NNR
Experience open heathland dotted with wild ponies, offering a different, rugged beauty to the woodlands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Planning Your Dartmoor Escape
Navigating Yarner Wood's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be steep and uneven. Ensure you have good walking shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Embrace Exploration
Marked trails can be inconsistent. Enjoy creating your own route and discovering hidden gems. :compass:
The misty wild woods of Dartmoor National Park, Devon, England [1024×683] Photographed by Duncan George
Is there any wilderness in southern England? I.e. somewhere that isn’t rammed with dog walkers. I’m looking for somewhere where I can connect with nature and escape humanity for a while
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Dartmoor weather is unpredictable. Layers and waterproofs are recommended, even on sunny days. :cloud_rain:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise
A fantastic spot for dogs, but be mindful of livestock and other walkers. Keep them on a lead where necessary. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can be steep and uneven. Ensure you have good walking shoes for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Embrace Exploration
Marked trails can be inconsistent. Enjoy creating your own route and discovering hidden gems. :compass:
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Dartmoor weather is unpredictable. Layers and waterproofs are recommended, even on sunny days. :cloud_rain:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise
A fantastic spot for dogs, but be mindful of livestock and other walkers. Keep them on a lead where necessary. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, tranquil beauty of Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR, praising the varied scenery from ancient woodlands to riverside paths and heathland with ponies. It's a peaceful escape, though some note that marked trails can be inconsistent. The area is highly recommended for dog walkers and nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat.
"Stunning walks through woodlands and grassy glades as well as along the river. Very quiet and peaceful - totally brilliant on a Summer day. You can create your own walk by taking different looping paths. You can start from any of the 4 available car parks."
Duncan Harvey
"Superb, tranquil environment with a sense of the medieval about it. Varied scenery from ancient woodland, riverside, and heathland complete with ponies."
Robert Godley
"Beautiful scenery! Lovely walk with the dog! A few steep hills, so make sure you are able to manage it!"
Anna Olehnovicha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR are accessible by car, with four main car parks available. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access. Check local bus routes if relying on public transport, but be prepared for infrequent services.
Yes, there are four car parks serving Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR. These provide convenient starting points for your walks. Parking can get busy on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is advised.
While some paths are accessible, many trails in Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR can be steep and uneven, making them challenging for those with mobility issues. It's best to research specific routes or stick to the more open, flatter areas near the car parks.
Wild camping is generally not permitted in Yarner Wood or East Dartmoor NNR without specific landowner permission. For wild camping experiences on Dartmoor, explore designated areas away from the NNR.
The nearest towns to Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR include Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead. These towns offer amenities such as shops, pubs, and accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR is free. There are no admission fees to explore the woodlands and heathlands.
Yarner Wood and East Dartmoor NNR are open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times, allowing for flexible visits.
There is no entrance fee for East Dartmoor National Nature Reserve. The area is managed for conservation and public access is free.
While official guided tours may not be consistently available, local walking groups or conservation organizations sometimes host events. Check local listings or the Dartmoor National Park website for potential opportunities.
While the area is accessible during daylight, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Stick to daylight hours for your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yarner Wood offers a variety of walks, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging woodland paths with steep hills. You can create your own route by linking different trails.
Some trails are marked, but the descriptions can be poor and markers inconsistent. Many visitors enjoy creating their own paths and exploring the varied scenery.
You can expect to see diverse wildlife, including ancient woodland flora, riverside creatures, and wild ponies grazing on the heathland. Keep an eye out for birds and insects too.
Absolutely! The ancient woodlands, riverside scenes, and open heathland provide stunning photographic opportunities throughout the year. Capture the light filtering through trees or the rugged beauty of the moor.
Facilities can vary by car park, but generally include information boards. Toilets are not always available, so plan accordingly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly within Yarner Wood or East Dartmoor NNR. It's advisable to bring your own picnic or plan to eat in nearby towns like Bovey Tracey.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. Remember to take all your litter with you.
The nearby towns of Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead offer a selection of pubs and cafes. These are your best bet for dining out after your visit.
No, there are no facilities to buy refreshments on site. It is essential to bring your own water and snacks for your visit.
Yes, several pubs in the surrounding villages offer outdoor seating and are a great place to relax after a walk. Research local pubs in Bovey Tracey or Lustleigh for options.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient woodland with its gnarled trees and dappled light is fantastic. Also, the riverside paths and open heathland offer diverse photographic subjects.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the dense canopy of Yarner Wood can create interesting light and shadow play.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive woodlands and landscapes. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flora and fauna. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Look for ancient trees, moss-covered branches, the flowing river, wild ponies, and the changing colours of the heathland. The textures and light are key.
Drone usage may be restricted in National Nature Reserves. It's crucial to check the latest regulations with the Dartmoor National Park authority before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring wellington boots for muddy paths, pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider a nature scavenger hunt to keep kids engaged. The open heathland is great for letting kids run around, and spotting wild ponies can be a highlight of the visit.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Nature Seekers
Recommendations for solo visitors: Embrace the freedom to create your own route, take your time to observe the wildlife, and find a secluded spot to simply be present. The lack of consistent trail markings can be a positive, encouraging a more intuitive and personal exploration of the area.
🐶 Dog Owners
Important considerations for dog owners: Always keep your dog under close control, especially in areas with livestock like wild ponies. Be mindful of other walkers and ensure your dog doesn't disturb wildlife. Carry plenty of water for your dog, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Woodlands of Yarner Wood
Many visitors enjoy simply getting lost (in a good way!) within Yarner Wood, creating their own paths and discovering hidden glades. While some official trails exist, their marking can be inconsistent, which adds to the sense of adventure. The terrain can be uneven and occasionally steep, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. The atmosphere here is one of profound tranquility, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Key features of Yarner Wood include its diverse tree species, rich undergrowth, and the feeling of stepping back in time. It's a place where nature's resilience and beauty are on full display. The woodland's character changes dramatically with the seasons, offering something new to discover on each visit, from spring wildflowers to autumn's fiery hues.
The Tranquil Riverside and Heathland of East Dartmoor NNR
As you ascend from the river, you'll encounter the heathland, characterized by its open, rolling terrain and hardy vegetation. This is where you're most likely to spot the iconic wild ponies that roam freely across Dartmoor. Their presence adds a wild and untamed element to the landscape, a true symbol of Dartmoor's natural heritage. The heathland offers a sense of vastness and freedom, with panoramic views stretching across the moor.
Exploring the heathland is a different kind of adventure, requiring sturdy footwear due to the uneven ground. The flora here is adapted to the exposed conditions, with heather, gorse, and various grasses dominating the scene. It's a vital habitat for ground-nesting birds and other specialist wildlife. The combination of woodland, river, and heathland makes East Dartmoor NNR a remarkably diverse and rewarding place to explore.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit