Dartmoor
From stark granite tors to traditional moorland villages; gently undulating countryside undisturbed for centuries to babbling brooks and chattering cascades
Explore a timeless landscape Stay safe on the moor
The very name of this stunning National Park conjures up so many different images... wild, open countryside, the stuff of legends; lowland pastures, home to the much-loved Dartmoor pony; spring lambs gambolling on grassy out- crops; majestic, immense granite fingers reach- ing to the skies; and ancient clapper bridges still bearing the marks of centuries of passing feet and hooves.
A landscape that changes with the seasons – glorious, seemingly endless walking country under a summer sun; brooding and full of mystery in winter when it is easy to conjure up the spirit of Conan Doyle – but well worth a visit, whatever the time of year.
Dartmoor has evolved slowly over time – discover the different character and nature of the moor as you criss-cross it from low to high level; north to south. This is a living, breathing place – a haven for wildlife and birds; where traditional ways of life, customs and events are still observed; where the pace of life is unhurried in
the scattered towns and villages on the moor with their welcoming pubs.
It is also a home of vibrant arts and crafts; of music and festivals; of the country’s last-built ‘castle’... wherever you turn, there is something different and exciting to discover. Home of Widecombe Fair – always held on the second Tuesday in September – when thousands of visitors flock to the tiny village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor to see an age-old moor- land event. Although the Uncle Tom Cobley and all of the song may be long gone, this is a gather- ing like none other and definitely not to be missed.
Take time to enjoy Dartmoor, to find your special place. It may be a favourite picnic spot by an ancient postbridge, a shady bank where the two rivers meet, or atop a high tor.
The National Park is there for all to enjoy and we are all guardians of Dartmoor, so please treat it with respect and help preserve it for the gener- ations who will come after us.
Dartmoor is free for all to enjoy but please do so safely, especially if you are walking or hiking.
Plan before you leave. Check current and recent weather conditions; after rain areas can be boggy, with streams or rivers running full, so plan alternative routes to use if necessary. Should mist come down, turn back. Plan for all ages and abilities of your party; allow rest stops; take water, food and warm drinks with you, plus emergency rations. Have with you and know how to use large-scale maps and a compass. There may be no signal to work technology.
Get back home or to your transport in day- light. The moor is not a place to be in the dark if you don’t know it. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect
to return – and tell them you are back safely.
Use stiles or gates to gain access. Never climb walls or fences; find bridges or safe crossing points for rivers, or take a differ- ent route if necessary. Wear sensible cloth- ing. Take waterproof outer layers; several thin layers provide better insulation than a single thick layer and you can adjust as required to conditions. Wear sturdy foot - wear offering ankle
protection, such as walking boots, to cope with rough terrain and help prevent you slipping.
Carry everything in a rucksack so both hands are free. Pop in a first aid kit, torch and whistle.
Keep your dog under close control and on a lead near livestock.
Free roaming moor- land animals can be unpredictable so best to steer clear.
Please take your litter home.
See Dartmoor’s spectacular falls
Set within a spectacular ancient valley, Dartmoor’s famous Becky Falls has been attract- ing visitors since 1903. No trip to Devon would be complete without a visit.
Explore more than 50 acres of woodland rich in wildlife, with a choice of trails to suit all ages and abilities.
The Blue Trail is a gentler walk along the Becka Brook and through the ancient oak wood- land. The Red Trail is where you will discover our stunning waterfall and its dramatic 70ft drop. Try our notoriously fun boulder scramble and, if you enjoy that, carry on to the Purple Trail for views of the beautiful lower falls. We also offer hands-on animal encounter shows – get up close to some of our friendly residents. Who will you meet today? They could be furry, scaly or even have eight legs! No session is the same. Not forgetting the Animal Feeding Sessions throughout the day with our meerkats and animals in the petting area. To help children really discover nature there are Explorer Backpacks to borrow and a stamp trail with a prize for every child.
After all this relax and treat yourself in our licensed woodland cafe and gift shop. There really is something for all ages, including your dog!
All shows and activities are included in your entrance fee!
THE OLD COTTAGE TEA SHOP Bovey Tracey Tel: (01626) 833430
Coffees, Light Lunches, Teas Opening Times Monday - Saturday 10am - 2pm
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