Dartmoor National Park, with its vast moorlands, rugged tors, and ancient woodlands, offers some of the most breathtaking walks in the UK.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking adventure or a family looking for a leisurely stroll, Dartmoor’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for exploration.
This article delves into seven of Dartmoor’s most beloved walks, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and historical richness of the area.
The Walks
Templar Way: From Moor to Sea
Spanning 18 miles from the iconic Haytor to the coastal town of Teignmouth, the Templar Way is a journey through Dartmoor’s varied landscapes.
This route, part of the Haytor Granite Tramway, offers walkers a historical path where granite was once transported. While the full route is a challenge, shorter segments offer accessible options for all, with the downhill trek to Teignmouth providing particularly stunning scenery.
Hound Tor: Legends and Views
A mere half-mile stroll leads to Hound Tor, an area shrouded in myth and offering panoramic views of Dartmoor.
The tor is not only a natural spectacle but also a site of historical intrigue, with the ruins of a medieval village nearby.
It’s said to have inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Hound of the Baskervilles,” adding a layer of mystery to its allure.
Grimspound: A Bronze Age Settlement
For those interested in Dartmoor’s ancient past, a walk to Grimspound reveals the remnants of a late Bronze Age settlement.
Enclosed by a large protective wall, the site contains 24 stone houses, offering a fascinating insight into prehistoric life on the moors.
Jay’s Grave: Mystery and Legend
Near Hound Tor lies Jay’s Grave, the final resting place of Kitty Jay, a young woman whose tragic story has become part of Dartmoor’s folklore.
Mysterious fresh flowers appear on her grave, and sightings of a cloaked figure have been reported, adding an eerie yet captivating element to this walk.
Castle Drogo to Teign Gorge: Majestic Landscapes
Starting at Castle Drogo, the last great castle built in England, this two-hour round trip offers a choice of routes.
Whether you opt for valley views or a riverside path, the walk through Teign Gorge to the picturesque Fingle Bridge is a journey through some of Dartmoor’s most majestic landscapes.
High Willhays and Yes Tor: Dartmoor’s Summits
The trek to High Willhays, Dartmoor’s highest point, is a rewarding challenge for walkers.
Nearby Yes Tor offers another vantage point for sweeping views across the national park.
This moderate walk is a testament to Dartmoor’s rugged beauty.
Potter’s Walk: Family-Friendly Exploration
For a gentle family outing, Potter’s Walk around Fernworthy Reservoir is ideal.
This short, flat route offers beautiful views and a picnic spot, making it perfect for a leisurely day out.
Nearby attractions like the Miniature Pony Centre add to the family-friendly appeal.
Summary
Dartmoor National Park’s walks are as varied as they are beautiful, offering something for everyone.
From the myth-shrouded tors and ancient settlements to the serene beauty of its rivers and gorges, Dartmoor invites walkers to step into a world of natural wonder and historical mystery.
So lace up your walking boots, pack your essentials, and set off to discover the captivating walks of Dartmoor.
Whether seeking solitude, adventure, or a family day out, Dartmoor’s trails await to unfold their stories beneath your feet.
