Dartmoor National Park
Take in some of the most spectacular parts of Dartmoor National Park
Designated in 1951, Dartmoor covers some 953 square kilometres, a captivating mix of atmospheric moorland, spectacular granite tors, prehistoric stone circles and rows, ancient pathways, medieval villages, iconic Dartmoor ponies, fascinating legends and vibrant villages with traditional events. It has provided inspiration for many books and films, including Arthur Conan-Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles.
Ivybridge to Holne
- Approximately 13 miles
The first section of the official Two Moors Way, and the most testing on the whole route. The old Redlake Railway is followed for 6 miles north, through barren and lonely moorland. The route then traverses open country, crossing the River Avon via a 19th-century clapper bridge and passing Huntingdon Warren, where rabbits were farmed from the mid-13th century to the 1950s. The pretty village of Holne comes as welcome relief!
Holne to Hameldown
- Approximately 7 miles
(for Widecombe in the moor + 1.5 miles) A picturesque part of the route, dropping through woodland to cross the Dart at New Bridge (ice cream van at holiday times!). Dr Blackall’s Drive is followed high above the Dart Valley, before dropping again to follow the West Webburn river towards the high Hameldown ridge. Here, a detour can be made to Widecombe-in-the-Moor for refreshment and accommodation.
Hameldown to Chagford
- Approximately 9.5 miles
(from Widecombe in the Moor + 1.5 miles) Keep an eye out for Dartmoor ponies and Highland cattle on this stretch. Grimspound, Dartmoor’s best-preserved Bronze Age settlement, is skirted before the trans-moor road is crossed by Bennett’s Cross, a 13th-century boundary marker. On Hurston Ridge will be found one of the longest and best-preserved stone rows on Dartmoor. Field paths and woodland tracks pass ancient farmsteads on the way to Chagford Bridge. The small town, a mile away, provides refreshment and accommodation.
Chagford to Drewsteignton
- Approximately 4 miles
A very easy stretch, initially following the River Teign on its way to the spectacular Teign Gorge below Castle Drogo. The route then climbs along the top of the gorge, with wonderful views: a fitting goodbye to the Dartmoor section of the route. A detour maybe made to NT Castle Drogo’s café (check opening times).