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Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park • Places to go • Aug 23, 2023 • 5 mins

Famously desolate and mysterious, Dartmoor National Park is ideal for learning navigation skills, or just finding somewhere away from the crowds.

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Dartmoor is a unique protected landscape in Devon, with rare wildlife and free roaming livestock and ponies. Made up of 954 square kilometres (368 square miles) of open moorland and deep river valleys, the landscape is punctuated by exposed granite tors, providing vital navigation markers and rest stops.

There are plenty of opportunities to explore the wildlife and heritage of the park on foot, by bike, horse or on the water. The long history of Dartmoor can be discovered in ancient Bronze Age burial mounds through to mining landscapes of the medieval and Victorian eras.

Top Dartmoor National Park articles

A guide to Wild Camping on Dartmoor

Wild camping on Dartmoor has changed, but there are many areas where it's still permitted. You’re going to need a rucksack for this one as camping next to the road or in camper vans is not allowed. Here's all you need to know about wild camping on Dartmoor.

The Ten Tors Challenge

The Ten Tors Challenge is an annual challenge organised by the British Army for young people to navigate the wilds of Dartmoor. It's a multi-day adventure that tests stamina, navigation and mental toughness - for both the participants and the volunteer. We speak to OS Champion Fi Darby about her experience.

ITV's Cornwall and Devon walks

Cornwall and Devon form the far south-west part of Britain and are a haven for locals and holidaymakers alike. Dramatic coastline plus wild moorlands, hills and valleys make it the perfect place to explore on foot or by bike.

Exploring Bowerman’s Nose and The Two Moors Way

Follow the Two Blondes as they explore the dramatic countryside around the Two Moors way and Bowerman's nose in Dartmoor - while being followed by a film crew for ITVs Britain's Favourite Walks

Family Fun on Dartmoor

With an abundance of attractions and areas to walk, cycle, picnic and eat, Dartmoor has something for everyone and every type of family. Here’s our list of must-do family activities.

What is letterboxing?

If you’re looking for a family fun day out in the Dartmoor National Park, then why not try out one of the most unique activities the area has to offer – letterboxing. Similar to orienteering, it’s something which you can do either on your own or with your family. It’s also a great way to explore and discover more about the local area. Here’s everything you need to know about letterboxing…

​Mountain biking in Dartmoor: top routes

With miles of moorland, Dartmoor National Park is perfect to explore on a bike. Discover a selection of the best routes and find one that suits you.

Explore Dartmoor National Park

Discover the best parts of Dartmoor National Park with this guide

Eternal peace and quiet with a walk to Three Barrows

This Dartmoor National Park route is full of interest and when you reach Three Barrows, you'll find a peaceful spot; it is easy to see why Bronze Age man chose to spend eternity there!

View all Dartmoor Adventures

Get outside & start exploring the outdoors with OS Maps

From planning & creating your own routes, or discovering ready-made ones; to following & recording your progress and staying on track; OS Maps puts mapping & navigation tools at your fingertips to make it easy for anyone to get outside safely and discover the outdoors.

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OS Maps

Never explore without one! Stay safe, and stay active with Britain’s most accurate outdoor maps.

Be inspired to do more and go further by equipping yourself with the best tools for the job. Our maps are built on 220 years of experience - we keep walkers, runners, cyclists and more safe in the great outdoors all year round.

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