Dartmoor is Southern England's last great wilderness and offers a diverse and timeless magic: high open
spaces crowned by granite tors offering vistas as far as the sea and, on the fringes, intimate and ancient
wooded valleys with beautiful riverside walks. It can be enjoyed in many different ways and by all age
groups. Whether it be an exhilarating walk over the hills or a gentle stroll along the boulder strewn river,
a walk among the remains of prehistoric man or an abandoned medieval village, there is much to stir the
imagination.
Conan-Doyle wrote 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' after visiting the moor and parts of the book are set
among the 'sinister rocky tors'.
Local stables arrange Pony trekking for the day, where you can explore the beautiful scenery from the comfort
of a saddle. There are a couple reservoirs belonging to the Duchy of Cornwall about four miles from here
where you can fish free for wild brown trout.
All
over the moor you will come across the remains of tin workings,
old engine houses, great wheels, disused railway tracks etc.
If your interest lies in the Flora & Fauna be prepared for
a treat, the moor is alive with Ferns, Lichens, Sundews, and
a huge range of Mosses, especially the Sphagnums along the
streams and dew ponds. Also expect to find Smooth Newts, Damsel
and Dragon flies and a tiny Brown Trout in these little streams.
Look up and search the sky and you are certain to see a Buzzard.
More information in Wildlife & Birds page.
