The Ten Best Things to Do on Dartmoor, UK

Wild, dramatic, and steeped in legend, Dartmoor National Park is one of the most atmospheric landscapes in the UK. Spanning nearly 1,000 square kilometres in Devon, it offers ancient history, rugged walking routes, rare wildlife, and some of the darkest skies in southern England.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, here are ten of the very best things to do on Dartmoor.

1. Walk to the Famous Tors

Dartmoor is known for its granite tors — rocky hilltops rising dramatically from the moorland.

Some of the most popular include:

  • Haytor Rocks – iconic and easily accessible

  • Hound Tor – linked to The Hound of the Baskervilles

  • Yes Tor – the highest tor on Dartmoor

  • Great Staple Tor – quieter with incredible views

Hiking between tors is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the raw beauty of the moor.

2. Spot the Dartmoor Ponies

The semi-wild Dartmoor ponies are one of the park’s most beloved symbols. You’ll often see them grazing freely near roads, valleys, and tors.

While they’re used to people, remember:

  • Do not feed them

  • Keep dogs under control

  • Admire from a safe distance

Seeing these hardy ponies against the misty landscape is unforgettable.

3. Explore Ancient Stone Circles

Dartmoor is one of the richest prehistoric landscapes in Europe.

Don’t miss:

  • Grey Wethers Stone Circles

  • Scorhill Stone Circle

  • Merrivale Bronze Age Complex

Many of these sites are over 4,000 years old and lie far from modern development, giving them a powerful, almost mystical atmosphere.

4. Visit Widecombe-in-the-Moor

Often called “the jewel of Dartmoor”, this postcard-perfect village features:

  • The famous Church of St Pancras

  • Traditional stone cottages

  • Excellent tearooms and pubs

It’s also the setting for the well-known folk song Widecombe Fair and makes a perfect stop after a walk.

5. Wild Swim in a Moorland River

On warm days, Dartmoor’s rivers offer crystal-clear pools and waterfalls ideal for wild swimming.

Popular spots include:

  • Bellever Yew

  • Sharrah Pool

  • Spitchwick Common

Always check water conditions and swim safely — river levels can rise quickly after rain.

6. Follow in Sherlock Holmes’ Footsteps

Fans of Arthur Conan Doyle should visit Hound Tor, widely believed to have inspired The Hound of the Baskervilles.

Nearby ruins of medieval settlements and sweeping foggy views make it easy to see why Dartmoor became the setting for Britain’s most famous detective novel.

7. Enjoy Dartmoor’s Dark Skies

Dartmoor is an official International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best stargazing locations in southern England.

On clear nights you can see:

  • The Milky Way

  • Meteor showers

  • Constellations rarely visible near towns

Bring a torch, warm clothes, and a sense of wonder.

8. Cycle or Horse Ride Across the Moor

With miles of bridleways and tracks, Dartmoor is perfect for outdoor adventures.

Options include:

  • The Granite Way – ideal for cycling

  • Guided horse-riding treks across open moorland

  • Mountain biking routes near Princetown

Few experiences beat riding through open countryside with nothing but tors on the horizon.

9. Visit Princetown and Dartmoor Prison Museum

Princetown sits high in the heart of the moor and is home to the famous Dartmoor Prison, built in 1809.

The museum offers fascinating insight into:

  • Prisoner-of-war history

  • Escapes and folklore

  • Life on the moor centuries ago

It’s also a great base for walking routes in all directions.

10. Simply Get Lost in the Landscape

Sometimes the best thing to do on Dartmoor is… nothing at all.

Pack a map, put your phone away, and wander:

  • Across open moorland

  • Through hidden valleys

  • Along ancient stone walls and clapper bridges

Dartmoor rewards slow exploration and quiet moments more than almost anywhere else in England.

Final Thoughts

Dartmoor is not polished or predictable — and that’s exactly its magic. From prehistoric monuments and wild swimming to legendary landscapes and endless walking routes, it offers something different every time you visit.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, history, wildlife, or simply peace and space, Dartmoor is one of the UK’s most extraordinary national parks.