Best things to do in Dartmoor National Park, UK
Updated: Jul 8
Devon is proudly home to the mesmerising Dartmoor National Park! The outstandingly gorgeous moors are teeming with wildlife and adventure. Dartmoor is one of the UK’s top hidden gems and sometimes hides in the shadow of the big name National parks. In reality it beholds so much beauty, from a magnitude of gushing waterfalls to ancient woodland and unmissable landmarks. Do not hesitate to make this your next destination!
Things to do in Dartmoor National Park
Lydford Gorge
Lydford gorge is a stunning gorge that beholds a temperate rainforest, containing two of Dartmoors most beautiful sites to visit. The gorge is owned by the national trust and there is a fee to enter the gorge, both sites included in one price. The sites are situated about a mile apart and have separate car parks and cafes for lunch.
White lady’s waterfall
One of the Lydford gorge walks takes you to White ladys waterfall. The walk itself is gorgeous (no pun intended), taking you down hill with views out into the lush temperate rainforest, and alongside the gushing river. As you walk up the river you will find the white lady’s waterfall, it is narrow bodied and very tall, quite a unique waterfall. There is a large natural rocky plinth next to the waterfall making the perfect spot for a photo!
Devils cauldron
Devils cauldron is another level of beautiful. The rock formations are very unique due to erosion from the stream over thousands of years. The walk to the devils cauldron is about a 30 minute loop but the surroundings are breathtaking so you will want to spend longer taking it in. The journey to the Devils cauldron is as magical as the destination, walking riverside with the ferns and moss in the gorge feels like you are in a foreign tropical paradise. Keep an eye out for trout in the river as you may see many swimming by. The Devils cauldron itself is uniquely majestic, I have not included it in the photo above as it’s something you need to witness for yourself. I highly reccomend this walk as it puts into perspective the under appreciated beauty of the UK!
2. Wistmans wood
Wistmans wood is an ancient woodland that has survived hundreds of years in the Dartmoor national park. The trees uniquely intertwine and there is much mystery and myth surrounding the origin of the woodland. The woodland is covered in rare lichens and mosses that have grown over a long period, this is why the woodland must be protected. People walking through have been slowly eroding the forest, it is reccomended that you stick to the guided track. The walking route begins at the Two bridges car park and is a 4.5km circuit that will take around 1.5 hours to complete.
This rare and unique habitat is well worth visiting, it will have you feeling like you’re in a magical dark movie.
3. Haytors Rock
Haytors Rock is a uniquely formed granite tor located in the East of Dartmoor. It’s arguably Dartmoor’s most famous landmark and can get very busy in summer months. You can climb to the top, some steps and climbing aids have been installed to help, however you will have to be careful on the rocks. The view from the top is immaculate, on a clear day you can see the south coast of Devon and even the Isle of Portland in Dorset! There is plenty of parking at the Haytor National park visitor center, and from there you will find clear paths leading you to the tor.
4. River Dart country park
The River Dart country park is one of Devon’s best attractions, boasting a wide range of fun filled activities. It is also a campsite so there is the option for an exiting weekend away or just an action packed day! I would list all the activities on site but there are too many so go to the River Dart country park website for the full list! The list includes things such as obstacle courses, bike trails, climbing, play areas and zip wires! The park opens at 8:30 and closes at dusk, prices vary depending on the day and season. I recommend River dart country park if you are looking to fill a day with some activities, it is a great family day out!
5. Canonteign falls
The Canonteign estate is home to several waterfalls including the highest waterfall in the South West of the England, Lady Exmouth falls. The Estate has a rich history and features tranquil gardens and panoramic views over Dartmoor. Not only is it Naturally beautiful to see but there is also plenty to keep you entertained especially children too. There are play areas, mazes and activities alongside trails to keep them busy on the walks. Ideally there is a Cafe that’s serves a lovely breakfast and lunches to visitors. There is an entrance fee and moneys go towards the upkeep of the estate. In total it takes around an hour to walk around Canonteign Falls and dogs are welcome on a lead.
6. The Butterfly & Otter Sanctuary
The Butterfly and Otter sanctuary is a great day out for all! They dedicate the sanctuary to protecting the UKs Otter population. You can watch the playful Otters be fed by the keepers at 11:30am, 2:00pm and 4:00pm. For those who really love otters, you can pay for an exclusive hands-on experience feeding them and experiencing the daily routines of the keepers. There is also a Butterfly house that holds multiple species of beautiful butterflies, it’s a very educational and valuable experience. The sanctuary is located on the South-Eastern edge of Dartmoor in Buckfast.
Places to eat in Dartmoor
The Castle Inn
The Castle inn is located just around the corner from Devils cauldron in Lydford gorge. It is an eye catching old English pub serving a fabulous menu, filled with high quality pub food. On Sundays they serve a delicious Carvery. The beer garden is beautiful with plenty of seats in a chilled out setting and even an outdoor bar. There is an outdoor shelter too that is string lit in the evening. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner after a busy day exploring Lydford gorge.
2. Dartmoor Bakery
The Dartmoor bakery is a highly rated family bakery in Yelverton, South-West Dartmoor. That are known for thier specialty swirls that come in a multitude of sweet and savoury flavours. They have a great variety of tasty baked goods and even provide a delivery service. Dartmoor is the perfect place for a picnic so gather up some delicious baked goods for your next adventure on the moors!
3. Two bridges hotel (Restaurant, bar and gardens)
The Two Bridges Hotel has an award winning restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner after exploring Dartmoor. They proudly present local produce from farmers and fishermen. They have a lounge and gorgeous garden that serves a superb Devon Cream tea! I’d say the dining is slightly on the fancier side but is not too extortionate and all the food is good quality. They have a large range of lunches and breakfasts too. When the weather is nice you can enjoy a drink with views over the River Dart!
Where to stay in Dartmoor
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