Dartmoor
The landscape that inspired the Hound of the Baskervilles is a wild, slightly weird and utterly wonderful place to walk
PERHAPS IT’S THE fact Dartmoor is tucked away in the south-west corner of England, right in the heart of Devon, that means it often isn’t taken seriously as an adventurous walking destination. But trust us, it’s one of the most wild, atmospheric, physically challenging and enjoyable places you could ever walk in.
Dartmoor is an ancient landscape of huge sweeping views, wooded valleys, fast-flowing rivers, spectacular granite tors, wild ponies and endless miles of wide-open moorland crying out to be explored on foot. The mists that swirl around Dartmoor’s hills can feel unsettling, as can the gunfire that rattles from the National Park’s live military firing range, and that’s before we mention the tales of pixies, ghosts and witchcraft that have become synonymous with the region. But the stunning scenery and warm local welcome will soon make you forget about that.
Dartmoor certainly doesn’t feel mountainous due to the rolling nature of the landscape, but the highest point on High Willhays is 621m above sea-level, which also makes it the highest place in Britain south of the Brecon Beacons.
With 386 square miles of moorland to explore we’d recommend booking a few days in Dartmoor and just heading out to discover
a different pocket of forest, wetland, or prehistoric remains on each walk; then kicking back in the local pubs or exploring the many farmer’s markets when you’re done. There are highlights to look out for including Haytor Rocks and Wistman’s Wood; but what you really need to do is go there and uncover them yourself.