Natural England - Dartmoor

Dartmoor

Dartmoor is England's richest National Park for evidence of humankind's influences on the past. Its legacy of prehistoric and more recent remains make Dartmoor of huge interest to archaeologists as well as those out to enjoy scenery with a real wilderness feel.

With an area of 954 sq km, Dartmoor includes the largest and wildest open space in southern England - some 518 sq km. It consists of two, high, boggy plateaux divided by the River Dart. Surrounding them is rocky land, where dramatic stone outcrops, called tors, form the spectacular backdrop to the famous Dartmoor ponies. The softer river valleys, with their ancient clapper bridges, provide a welcome contrast to the stark magnificence of the moors.

North Bovey, Drewsteignton, Lustleigh and Throwleigh are attractive villages, with thatched cottages and medieval stone farmhouses. There are several streets of traditional slate-hung houses at Ashburton, and Moretonhampstead has an unusual row of 17th century Almshouses.

Dartmoor is famous for its prehistoric remains, with many standing stones. Bronze and Iron Age hut circles and hillforts are visible in several places. Tin mining remains can be seen about the Moor; the last mine closed in 1939. Castle Drogo, near Drewsteignton, is England’s newest castle, completed in 1930.

Walking is the most popular outdoor recreation on Dartmoor, which offers routes on the High Moor and along the wooded valleys; other activities include fishing and riding.

Contact Information

Dartmoor National Park Authority,
Haytor Road, Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 9JQ Tel: (01626) 832093
Email:hq@dartmoor-npa.gov.uk

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