Why we love Dartmoor and Exmoor
Is this England’s wildest corner? With heather-strewn moors, mysterious woods and dramatic peaks, Dartmoor and Exmoor can feel like the edge of the world. They’re a nature-spotter’s joy, grazed by wind-tousled ponies and statuesque red deer – and an adventurer’s paradise, a landscape to climb, hike, cycle, scramble and splash.
Dartmoor and Exmoor are two separate national parks: the former is wholly in Devon, while the latter crosses the border into Somerset too. But they are easy to travel between, and both have their own charms: while Dartmoor’s deep valleys and granite peaks are inland, Exmoor has 37 miles (59km) of coast to explore, and was Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve – renowned for its dazzling stargazing.
From cross-country pony treks to enchanted forest walks, here’s how to explore these untamed parks for yourself.
Things to do in Dartmoor and Exmoor
Featured things to do
Blooming marvellous
In spring, the landscape softens before your eyes – with perky snowdrops, wild daffodils and fields full of lambs. Why not try a photography workshop or painting course to capture its beauty?
Learn more about springtime in ExmoorPeak fitness
The long summer days are perfect for hiking, so spend a week walking the Two Moors Way – a 117-mile (188km) coast-to-coast route, encompassing both Dartmoor and Exmoor.
Learn more about the Two Moors WayFight club
For Exmoor’s red deer, October is rutting season: the stags’ annual battle for status. It’s a bellowing, antler-clashing spectacle, so join a safari-style tour for a peek at the action.
Learn more about Exmoor’s stag-spotting toursNature’s magic
When winter fog descends on the gnarled, tangled oak trees of Wistman’s Wood, it looks like a fairytale forest. Rare lichens cling to the branches, adding to its otherworldly feel.
Learn more about Wistman's WoodPlaces to stay in Dartmoor and Exmoor
Farmstays and bed and breakfasts
Make yourself at home! For a local welcome, you can’t beat a family-run bed and breakfast, farm campsite or rural pub-hotel.
Grand estates
Some of the region’s finest mansions have been transformed into lavish hotels, with award-winning restaurants too.
Unique rentals
For a quirky stay, take your pick from cute thatched cottages, silver Airstream caravans and vintage train carriages.
Explore nearby
Getting to Dartmoor and Exmoor
Plymouth and Exeter are the region’s largest cities; depending on your destination in Exmoor or Dartmoor, the driving time ranges from 20 minutes to two (or more) hours. Trains connect Plymouth with Exeter (one hour), London (three hours) and Bristol (two hours 20 minutes), while Heathrow and Gatwick airports can be reached by road in three to four hours. Southampton Airport is a two- to three-hour drive away. There are also flights from a range of UK and international airports to Exeter International Airport.
Getting around
While a hire car will give you the greatest freedom, it’s easy to explore Dartmoor and Exmoor by public transport. Dartmoor is served by both trains and buses, while Exmoor has several bus routes. If you’re hiking long-distance, book a luggage transfer to carry your bags.
By bus
All aboard the Exmoor Coaster! This open-top bus runs all over the park and beyond, including Lynmouth and Minehead.
By train
The Dartmoor Line runs from Exeter to Okehampton – the jumping-off spot for hiking, cycling and other outdoor adventures.
Want to know more
Want to know more?
Planning a business event in Dartmoor and Exmoor?
Planning a business event in Dartmoor and Exmoor?
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