Tips and questions
We've answered some of the questions you may be asking before you start
We’ve tried our best to give you as much advice as possible about the route ahead and answer common questions people ask us. If however we haven’t answered all your questions, please get in touch and we’d be happy to help you further. Alternatively contact a local Information Centre such as Ivybridge TIC or Lynmouth Pavilion National Park Centre.
Should I walk North–South or South–North?
It is entirely up to you! The route is signposted in both directions. Traditionally the majority of walkers start in the south, finishing at Lynmouth and thus taking advantage of the prevailing winds. Do consider, though, that the views of Dartmoor, when heading north–south are amazing… but that direction gives you an 800ft climb out of Lynmouth at the start of Day 1!
Do I have to carry my own luggage?
How do I report a problem along the path?
There is no single owner of the route – it passes through private land. Local Highway departments and / or National Park Authorities are responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the route – see our page here on how to report a problem.
How difficult is the path?
The whole route is waymarked, but in remote areas – in particular the Ivybridge to Scoriton section, and Dunstone Down/Hameldown to Chagford Common stretch on Dartmoor, and across The Chains on Exmoor – this is limited and walkers should carry, and be able to use, a map and compass. The new edition of the Two Moors Way guidebook includes an alternative low-level route from Ivybridge to Holne, and another to avoid Hameldown (providing an alternative route in times of poor visibility).
The route can be broken down into different length sections depending how fit you are and how far you wish to walk each day – see the route section. If you are unsure we would recommend you start out by doing some short sections as day walks in order to assess your abilities.
Can you help me organise accommodation and transport?
Can I take my dog?
If your dog is up for the challenge, then of course. Many accommodation providers will take well-behaved dogs, but do check in advance. Remember that dogs should be kept on leads within both National Parks from 1 March to 31 July (to protect lambs and ground-nesting birds) and under control at all times. Be aware that livestock will be encountered along the whole route.
How do I get back to the start?
The easiest way is to see if a friend is willing and able to drop you off and pick you up again at the other end. However there are lots of other options providing you plan ahead and have a little patience and flexibility. See our Transport page for details.
Do I have to complete the route all in one go?
Of course not! There are many options to walk the route in short sections – for example completing a number of day walks, using the route as a backbone for a series of circular walks or completing a few days at a time (for example dividing the route into the sections crossing South Devon, Dartmoor, Mid Devon and Exmoor).
I’m up for a challenge – is it possible for me to extend the route?
There are lots of other walking routes that intersect with the Two Moors Way if you want to extend it by following another recreational route. Alternatively use your maps and make use of the extensive Rights of Way network across Devon, Dartmoor and Exmoor to take in a few detours to other points of interest along the way.
Can I camp along the route?
If you don’t mind carrying your tent and equipment camping is possible. Please note that wild camping is only usually allowed in England when you have the express permission of the relevant landowner, and even National Parks are privately owned. Details of local campsites can be found on our site here. Within Dartmoor wild camping is permitted in some areas – find full details at www.dartmoor.gov.uk/about-use/about-us-maps/camping-map.
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If I get into real difficulties on the moorland stretches, what should I do?
Exmoor and Dartmoor both have their own dedicated search and rescue teams: www.exmoor-srt.org.uk and www.dartmoor-rescue.org.uk. Make sure you are properly equipped with the appropriate clothing and map and compass (and know how to use them) when crossing Exmoor and Dartmoor, in case conditions deteriorate.
Are there any local walking groups offering days out along the route?
If you want to get a feel for the route without setting off on your own, The Ramblers (Devon) and Moorland Guides on Dartmoor both run a varied programme of walks in the area: check our their websites to see what they are offering along the Two Moors Way – Devon’s Coast to Coast route.