Video clips supplied by Dartmoor National Park Authority
Welcome to Dartmoor
Experience the Moor
Dartmoor is a rugged and captivating region in the Southwest of England, offering a remarkably diverse and utterly magical outdoor experience. Covering 954 square kilometres, this ancient landscape is characterized by rolling hills, vast granite tors, gorgeous green valleys, and pristine rivers.
The sensation of freedom, as you traverse wide expanses of heather and gorse clad terrain, is unparalleled. The moors are punctuated by iconic granite tors, such as Haytor and Hound Tor, providing not only breath-taking panoramic views but also a glimpse into Dartmoor’s geological history.
Dartmoor’s rivers, including the Teign, Dart, Okement and Tavy, offer opportunities for wild swimming, and picnicking along their banks. In contrast, the steep-sided valleys and open areas on the moor are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with semi-wild ponies, shaggy highland cattle, lots of sheep and elusive birds like skylarks and the cuckoo.
The moor is steeped in history, evident through its prehistoric stone rows, bronze age settlements, clapper bridges, and not forgetting the eerie buildings and shadows of Dartmoor’s infamous prison!
Dartmoor’s dark skies offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, the absence of light pollution allows for a mesmerizing celestial display, plus of course the legendary sunsets and sunrises are a huge draw for photographers.
Dartmoor is a place where the elements, history, and nature converge to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you seek solitude and introspection or adventure and exploration, Dartmoor offers a myriad of possibilities that will leave you with lasting memories of this captivating wilderness.
Getting Active on Dartmoor
Nestled in the heart of Devon, Dartmoor National Park beckons adventurers with its vast expanse of 386 square miles, offering a wonderful choice of exhilarating opportunities for those seeking an active escape.
Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the rugged terrain, reaching the pinnacle of the highest tors on foot. The panoramic views from these lofty vantage points are a reward for the intrepid explorer.
For cycling enthusiasts, Dartmoor presents a challenge with its steepest hills, providing an invigorating ride through the undulating landscape across many designated trails.
Equestrians can choose a different perspective, hacking over the moor on horseback, forging a connection with nature and the rich history that permeates the area.
Dartmoor’s allure extends to water activities as well. Brave the elements with a cold dip into the crystal-clear pools during a session of wild swimming, an experience that connects you intimately with the untamed beauty of the moors.
Alternatively, embrace the waters through kayaking, navigating through the meandering rivers that carve through the landscape.
Thrill-seekers can take on the challenge of rock climbing, scaling the granite outcrops that punctuate the moor. Each ascent offers not just a physical feat but a chance to appreciate the unique geology of Dartmoor. Meanwhile, those seeking a more tranquil day can cast a line into the peaceful rivers, indulging in the leisurely pursuit of fishing amid the serene surroundings.
What's on
24janAll Day05Gruffalo Party Trail
Event Details
The Gruffalo is turning 25! To celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure. Haldon Forest Park’s interactive family trail features all sorts of party-themed activities and games,
Event Details
The Gruffalo is turning 25! To celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure.
Haldon Forest Park’s interactive family trail features all sorts of party-themed activities and games, along with fun facts to teach you about life in the forest for the Gruffalo and other creatures.
Follow the trail around Haldon Forest Park to help find the missing party items to give the Gruffalo a birthday to remember. Search for balloons, pine cones, apples and the Gruffalo himself, and complete fun activities and rubbings as you go along.
Get the party started with a Gruffalo Party Trail pack
Pick up your pack for just £4 from the Info Pod, packed with fun things to do on your party adventure.
Inside you’ll find:
- kraft bag to colour in
- party headband to wear
- party trail activity leaflet
- stickers
- pencil and crayon
- keepsake sew-on Gruffalo Party patch
Share your party fun using the #GruffaloTrail hashtag.
Time
January 24, 2024 - January 5, 2025 (All Day)(GMT+01:00)
04apr(apr 4)10:30 am31oct(oct 31)4:30 amWidecombe Thursday Craft Market
Event Details
A weekly market with a lovely variety of hand-crafted items all made in Devon by the stallholders. Held every Thursday from 4th April – 31st October 2024, except 2nd May,
Event Details
A weekly market with a lovely variety of hand-crafted items all made in Devon by the stallholders. Held every Thursday from 4th April – 31st October 2024, except 2nd May, from 10.30am – 4.30pm, in the National Trust 16th century Church House. Free entry.
Time
April 4, 2024 10:30 am - October 31, 2024 4:30 am(GMT+00:00)
01jun10:00 am30sep(sep 30)6:00 pmStone Lane Gardens 'Natural Elements' Sculpture Exhibition
Event Details
Stone Lane Gardens is hosting the exhibition curated by South West Sculptors There are 58 pieces of work from 31 artists. This is an exciting
Event Details
Stone Lane Gardens is hosting the exhibition curated by South West Sculptors There are 58 pieces of work from 31 artists.
This is an exciting exhibition with an enormous variety of work by artists from around the South West.
There has been an annual exhibition at Stone Lane Gardens since 1992
Co-founder June Ashburner was a painter and local gallerist. She invited the strong local arts community to exhibit their work in the gardens. They produced a diverse exhibition of sculpture and installations. We endeavour to sustain that legacy of diversity with an exhibition illustrating the continuing creativity of emerging artists based in or connected to the South West.
Stone Lane Gardens is a beautifully landscaped RHS Partner Garden with National Collections of Birch and Alder trees. Groves of trees, pools and streams create a magical exhibition setting loved by artists and visitors of all ages.
South West Sculptors are a group of over 60 professional sculptors working and living in the South West Our members come from Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.
We exist to showcase the distinctive talent and creative personality of the region,
We pride ourselves on the quality of our members and are dedicated to showcasing the best of Sculpture in the west. So, whether you’re searching for an intimate piece which will bring great beauty to your home or a statement sculpture to stand – monolithic – out of doors, South West Sculptors have the passion and the talent to enable you to realise your vision.
Thirty one of our members have come together for this exhibition which is predominantly focused on the work of our outdoor sculptors who have chosen work to complement the natural environment of Stone Lane Gardens with the beautiful Birch and Alder trees as well and ponds and streams. Sculptures are in a variety of mediums from Stone, wood, metal, and glass as well as recycled materials. The artist’s work embraces environmental themes, wildlife, journeys, and celebrations of the beauty of nature in both abstract and representational forms all combining Natural Elements.
Time
June 1, 2024 10:00 am - September 30, 2024 6:00 pm(GMT+00:00)
25jul10:30 am4:30 pmNature Diaries
Event Details
Monthly
Event Details
Monthly Nature Diaries
For budding artists & writers who love nature
Walking in the footsteps of Edith Holden The Nature Notes of an Edwardian Lady. Short guided walks on Dartmoor, sketching and recording nature, then back to the studio to learn how to complete a nature diary.
Art | Nature | Creative writing|mindfullness
No experience necessary
Last Thursday each month |10.30am-4.30pm
Max 5 students|From £135
Time
July 25, 2024 10:30 am - 4:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
02augAll Day03Tavistock Arts Market
Event Details
Located in the heart of Tavistock, within the thriving market complex, Butchers Hall hosts Tavistock Arts Market, a vibrant monthly market featuring a
Event Details
Located in the heart of Tavistock, within the thriving market complex, Butchers Hall hosts Tavistock Arts Market, a vibrant monthly market featuring a variety of talented, local artists, designers and makers.
9am to 4pm each day
Time
August 2, 2024 - August 3, 2024 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
03aug2:00 pm4:00 pmGuided Tour at Tamar Valley Vineyard
Event Details
Explore the Valley, hear the history and taste the wine! Enjoy a guided tour around Tamar Valley Vineyard to hear about the history and nature of the valley along with the
Event Details
Explore the Valley, hear the history and taste the wine!
Enjoy a guided tour around Tamar Valley Vineyard to hear about the history and nature of the valley along with the very special history of the vineyard site. Find out how this sleepy patch of Devon soil was transformed into a working vineyard in 2016 by the Williams family.
Then, most importantly enjoy the views and taste some of the wine they have created. Soft drinks available.
Tickets: Adults £16.
Under 18s are welcome on the tour please book a free ticket. Under 18s will receive a complimentary soft drink. Tours run 14:00 – 16:00
www.tamarvalleyvineyard.co.uk/visit-us
Time
August 3, 2024 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm(GMT+00:00)
07aug(aug 7)10:30 am08(aug 8)4:30 pmTeddy Bear Picnic
Event Details
Back by popular demand, we are running another Teddy Bear Picnic on 8th and 9th August! The day will include a bear trail around the gardens, lawn games, face painting, story-telling,
Event Details
Back by popular demand, we are running another Teddy Bear Picnic on 8th and 9th August!
The day will include a bear trail around the gardens, lawn games, face painting, story-telling, and lots of fun. Bring your own lunch or purchase one of our teddy bear picnic boxes for children (and grown up children too!) Bring your own teddy bear and enjoy a wonderful day out.
We once again have a wonderful Charlie Bear which will be raffled off during the day.
Time
August 7, 2024 10:30 am - August 8, 2024 4:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
10aug(aug 10)10:30 am11(aug 11)4:30 pmSummer Fair
Event Details
Come to our two day Summer Fair over 10th and 11th August. We will have plenty of stalls for you to peruse including hand-made silver jewellery, pottery, skin care products, candles
Event Details
Come to our two day Summer Fair over 10th and 11th August.
We will have plenty of stalls for you to peruse including hand-made silver jewellery, pottery, skin care products, candles and soap, lino printed cards, woven willow and other hand-made local products.
Our cafe will be open and there will be scrumptious home-made food on offer and refreshing hot and cold drinks.
Entry free to members (why not become one if you haven’t already!), and usual entry prices for non-members.
We look forward to seeing you then.
Time
August 10, 2024 10:30 am - August 11, 2024 4:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
10aug2:00 pm4:00 pmGuided Tour at Tamar Valley Vineyard
Event Details
Explore the Valley, hear the history and taste the wine! Enjoy a guided tour around Tamar Valley Vineyard to hear about the history and nature of the valley along with the
Event Details
Explore the Valley, hear the history and taste the wine!
Enjoy a guided tour around Tamar Valley Vineyard to hear about the history and nature of the valley along with the very special history of the vineyard site. Find out how this sleepy patch of Devon soil was transformed into a working vineyard in 2016 by the Williams family.
Then, most importantly enjoy the views and taste some of the wine they have created. Soft drinks available.
Tickets: Adults £16.
Under 18s are welcome on the tour please book a free ticket. Under 18s will receive a complimentary soft drink. Tours run 14:00 – 16:00
www.tamarvalleyvineyard.co.uk/visit-us
Time
August 10, 2024 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm(GMT+00:00)
10aug6:00 pmAn Evening at the Taverna: Taste of Greece
Event Details
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with our Greek Taverna night. Savour the fresh, aromatic flavours of Grecian cuisine, where each dish tells a story of history and tradition. Experience the warmth
Event Details
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with our Greek Taverna night. Savour the fresh, aromatic flavours of Grecian cuisine, where each dish tells a story of history and tradition.
Experience the warmth of Greek hospitality and enjoy a variety of Mediterranean delights in an ambience that captures the essence of a summer in Greece.
Time
August 10, 2024 6:00 pm(GMT+01:00)
15augAll Day17Butchers Hall Art & Craft Fair
Event Details
If you are looking something a little different, that inspires and celebrates the very best of what our region has to offer, visit our award winning Butchers Hall for a
Event Details
If you are looking something a little different, that inspires and celebrates the very best of what our region has to offer, visit our award winning Butchers Hall for a truly unique experience that complements our Pannier Market and beautiful bustling market town.
Open 9am to 4pm each day
Time
August 15, 2024 - August 17, 2024 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
17aug(aug 17)10:00 am18(aug 18)4:00 pmRoar 'n' Snore
Event Details
This is a camping trip like no other. Whether you’re a family with little ones, teenagers or a couple, there is activities for everyone at our spectacular Roar n’ Snore
Event Details
This is a camping trip like no other. Whether you’re a family with little ones, teenagers or a couple, there is activities for everyone at our spectacular Roar n’ Snore event!
- Saturday 4th May
- Saturday 6th July
- Saturday 17th August
Camp INSIDE the zoo itself and find out what life is like between dusk and dawn, when many residents come out to play. With an evening tour and a twilight tour, you’ll be able to meet all the diurnal and nocturnal animals.
Imagine falling asleep under the stars in the depths of Dartmoor, away from civilisation for the evening, surrounded by exotic animals and waking up to the sound of our African Lioness, Kimya roaring!
Pitch up in the heart of the zoo. With a private close encounters session, a keeper-led tour of the zoo and a campfire, experience an unforgettable camping trip. With a BBQ dinner and breakfast all included, you can enjoy the weekend at no extra cost.
Also receive your very own Roar n’ Snore t-shirt (included in ticket price) to remember the night.
This event runs from 2pm on the date of your booking, so you’ll be able to witness a live big cat feed straight after the event briefing upon arrival. After spending the night at the zoo, once your tent is packed away, you will also have zoo admission for the Sunday included.
Tickets are limited so don’t miss out!
Time
August 17, 2024 10:00 am - August 18, 2024 4:00 pm(GMT+00:00)
25aug10:30 am4:30 pmNature Diaries
Event Details
Monthly
Event Details
Monthly Nature Diaries
For budding artists & writers who love nature
Walking in the footsteps of Edith Holden The Nature Notes of an Edwardian Lady. Short guided walks on Dartmoor, sketching and recording nature, then back to the studio to learn how to complete a nature diary.
Art | Nature | Creative writing|mindfullness
No experience necessary
Last Thursday each month |10.30am-4.30pm
Max 5 students|From £135
Time
August 25, 2024 10:30 am - 4:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
06sepAll Day07Tavistock Arts Market
Event Details
Located in the heart of Tavistock, within the thriving market complex, Butchers Hall hosts Tavistock Arts Market, a vibrant monthly market featuring a
Event Details
Located in the heart of Tavistock, within the thriving market complex, Butchers Hall hosts Tavistock Arts Market, a vibrant monthly market featuring a variety of talented, local artists, designers and makers.
9am to 4pm each day
Time
September 6, 2024 - September 7, 2024 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
09sepAll DayWillow Woven Trug Workshop
Event Details
Willow weaving is an ancient craft that has been in use for thousands of years. Within the British Isles, the earliest historical records of willow weaving date from the Mesolithic
Event Details
Willow weaving is an ancient craft that has been in use for thousands of years. Within the British Isles, the earliest historical records of willow weaving date from the Mesolithic (approximately 8,000 to 10,000 years ago).
We are thrilled this art is still being taught, and welcome Lynn Kentish here to teach you the art of willow weaving, and creating your own Irish Trug.
£55 per head.
Tea, coffee and entry to our 10 acre garden included in ticket price.
Time
September 9, 2024 All Day(GMT+00:00)
13sepAll DayNeedle Felted Animal (of your choosing!) Workshop
Event Details
Learn to needlefelt with Furzie. This workshop is designed both for complete beginners and for those wishing to broaden their skills. In the day you will make a poseable sculpture,
Event Details
Learn to needlefelt with Furzie. This workshop is designed both for complete beginners and for those wishing to broaden their skills. In the day you will make a poseable sculpture, about 6” tall, based around a wire armature. You will also learn tricks and skills to enable you to develop your own characters, which apart from the wire armature are constructed entirely of wool. No sewing or glueing involved! As Furzie, Michelle Hickman has been teaching needlefelting for over nine years and has just published her first book on the subject.
Come and join felting artist Michelle Hickman from www.furzie.co.uk in this creative workshop making a needle felted animal of your choice! IMPORTANT: Please advise what animal you would like to make when booking, so that Michelle can bring suitable colours for you.
Coffee and tea and entry to our 10 acre gardens included in the ticket price of £75.
Time
September 13, 2024 All Day(GMT+00:00)
17sepAll DaySpinner Ring Workshop
Event Details
Ever wanted to learn the basics of silversmithing? In this workshop you will make a spinner ring with up to 3 bands. You will learn how to file, saw, solder and
Event Details
Ever wanted to learn the basics of silversmithing?
In this workshop you will make a spinner ring with up to 3 bands. You will learn how to file, saw, solder and polish and end up with a custom-made, sterling silver spinner ring.
A large selection of different wires will be available (including brass if you like gold tones).
Small 3mm stones can be added on your ring for £10 per stone on the day if desired.
£120 ticket includes a hot drink and entry to our 10 acre gardens.
Time
September 17, 2024 All Day(GMT+00:00)
25sep10:30 am4:30 pmNature Diaries
Event Details
Monthly
Event Details
Monthly Nature Diaries
For budding artists & writers who love nature
Walking in the footsteps of Edith Holden The Nature Notes of an Edwardian Lady. Short guided walks on Dartmoor, sketching and recording nature, then back to the studio to learn how to complete a nature diary.
Art | Nature | Creative writing|mindfullness
No experience necessary
Last Thursday each month |10.30am-4.30pm
Max 5 students|From £135
Time
September 25, 2024 10:30 am - 4:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
26sepAll Day28Butchers Hall Makers Market
Event Details
If you are looking something a little different, that inspires and celebrates the very best of what our region has to offer, visit our award winning Butchers Hall for a
Event Details
If you are looking something a little different, that inspires and celebrates the very best of what our region has to offer, visit our award winning Butchers Hall for a truly unique experience that complements our Pannier Market and beautiful bustling market town.
Open 9am to 4pm each day
Time
September 26, 2024 - September 28, 2024 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
27sep10:00 am4:00 pmScenes in a Vintage Book Workshop
Event Details
Imagine the delight as you open a book and find the most delightful little Garden scene. Birds, bees and butterflies amongst a backdrop of flowers. Inspired by our beautiful garden,
Event Details
Imagine the delight as you open a book and find the most delightful little Garden scene. Birds, bees and butterflies amongst a backdrop of flowers. Inspired by our beautiful garden, Sara will help you to design a magical world hidden inside a book, using a variety of paper ephemera. Music sheets, vintage tickets, maps and book pages will all be provided for you to paint, cut and stitch. A wonderfully relaxing day, creating a secret keepsake to delight anyone who peeps inside your book. Sara will help you bring your own designs to life, what ever they may be.
Time
September 27, 2024 10:00 am - 4:00 pm(GMT+00:00)
29sep9:30 am12:30 pmFungal Foray - Introduction (morning & afternoon session available)
Event Details
Explore the fascinating world of fungi with mycologist Dr Christian Taylor, Emma from Dartmoor’s Daughter and Daniel Thompson-Mills of Steward Community Woodland. On a walk
Event Details
Explore the fascinating world of fungi with mycologist Dr Christian Taylor, Emma from Dartmoor’s Daughter and Daniel Thompson-Mills of Steward Community Woodland. On a walk through the woods, you will learn how to identify fungi and find out all about this marvellous kingdom of nature. Session will include:
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The 3 Fungal Divisions (droppers, shooters and slimes)
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Structure and function of fruiting bodies
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Spore dispersal distances
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Radial Growth, rings and troups
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The toxicity of toad stools
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Medicinal, fire and dying
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Shamanic use
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Mycorrhyzal roots
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No latin names in Introductory level – common names only
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Tasting of any edibles if found, drinking immunitea
This is an introductory session aimed at those with little or no knowledge of fungi. (If you already have basic knowledge, we recommend you instead consider the ‘Fungi – Voyage into the Mycelium’ or ‘Fungal Field Lab’ sessions.)
Time
September 29, 2024 9:30 am - 12:30 pm(GMT+00:00)
Staying on Dartmoor
Regardless of your taste or budget, you’ll find somewhere perfect to stay for your Dartmoor holiday. Our towns have luxurious boutique hotels, while there are lots of cosy B&Bs and holiday cottages in our villages and across the national park. If camping and caravanning are more your style, you’ll find the perfect place to pitch up.