5 Reasons to Visit Dartmoor 

 

People from all over the UK and the world are drawn to visit Dartmoor for the uniquely wild landscape. This wonderful space has evolved dramatically over millions of years. Criss-crossed with public paths and byways, and dotted with astounding granite Tors, Dartmoor National Park is an excellent place to visit and explore.  

 

But if that’s not enough to lure you south, Dartmoor hosts many events and activities throughout the year. It makes it easy to get outside and enjoy something new. We’ve rounded up some of the best Dartmoor events so you can pick and choose what suits you! 

 

Dartmoor Walking Festival 

Dartmoor is a haven for walkers. Dogs are welcome too – although they may need to be on leads in some of the more delicate areas of the moor. 

 

The Dartmoor Walking Festival has been running each year since 2016. This year’s festival begins on Sunday, September 8th 2024. Guided walks with local experts let groups explore Dartmoor’s landscape, history and folklore. The festival raises funds for Devon Air Ambulance and has raised over £10,000 to date. 

 

Walking group numbers are limited and charges apply. We recommend visiting their website to view the 2024 festival programme. Book your favourite walks early to secure a place! 

 

Help the Rangers at Haytor days 

Twice a month, the rangers of Haytor invite the public to help with conservation work. Volunteers can join in with habitat management, working with archaeological sites and keeping this corner of Dartmoor at its best. 

 

All tools and gloves are provided. Volunteers should wear old clothes and sturdy footwear appropriate for the weather conditions on the day. Interested visitors should book their place on the first of each month. This lets the rangers prepare the necessary tools and tasks. Tea, coffee and biscuits are free, but you’ll need your own packed lunch. 

 

Signing up for the Dartmoor newsletter will keep you posted about volunteer activities and other Dartmoor news. Help the ranger days are free to join, but booking is essential! 

 

Dartmoor Farmer’s Markets 

If delicious food and produce are more your style, heading off to the Tavistock or Widecombe farmers’ and produce markets is just the thing! 

 

Tavistock Farmers’ Market is held every 2nd and 4th Saturday at Bedford Square, Tavistock from 9 am to 2 pm. Check out their Facebook page for details of the produce and stalls you can expect to find when you visit. 

 

Widecombe’s produce market opens for two weekends in November from 10 am ‘til 4 pm. 

 

Local meats, honey, eggs, bread, pastries, and vegetables can be purchased and enjoyed at each of these Dartmoor events for farmers and their supporters. 

 

Dartmoor events for art lovers 

Dartmoor has its fair share of famous artists, so it’s no surprise that there are so many art exhibitions, activities and events throughout the year. There are too many to list all of them here, so instead, we’ll share our four favourite upcoming Dartmoor events for art lovers: 

Visit Dartmoor for autumn festivals 

When summertime ends, the festivals on Dartmoor keep going! Whether it’s real ales, music or Halloween pumpkins that are your thing, there’s an autumn festival to suit you! 

To join any of these Dartmoor events, or to take a break away from the everyday in wildly wonderful surroundings, book a mega pod or cottage at Langstone Manor Park. 

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