Our top 5 things to do on Dartmoor

Did you know that Oakdown Holiday Park is under an hour from Dartmoor National Park?

This rugged and remote landscape has inspired many an author and filmmaker thanks to the stunning backdrops and vistas which grace this granite moorland. Strewn with an array of Bronze Age and Neolithic settlements and home to wild ponies, this breathtaking landscape offers plenty of opportunities for exploring and it’s always possible to find space away from the crowds.

With over 380 square miles to explore, we have pulled together our top 5 things to do on Dartmoor to get you started.

1. Visit Bovey Tracey 

Dubbed the ‘gateway to the moor’ Bovey Tracey is a very pretty town bordering the eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park. It’s winding streets and picturesque parks provide a welcoming, peaceful environment to start your Dartmoor experience. Browse the eclectic mixture of shops, enjoy a cream tea in one of the many cafes and soak up the relaxing surrounds.
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2. Dartmoor Prison Museum 

This is an absolute ‘must’ when looking at things to do on Dartmoor! Perhaps one of the most notorious and famous jails in the UK, Dartmoor prison is set high up, in isolation on the moors and started life as a ‘Prisoner of War Depot’ when it was constructed in 1806. A still active prison, tour the museum to learn about the various prisoners over the years, types of restraints used as well as the plenty of stories, each bringing the prison to life.
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3. Hounds of the Baskerville Tour 

Delivered by a descendant of one of the characters involved in the plot, this unique tour provides insight into this intriguing story, the people who inspired it and the real locations that lie at the heart of the tale. You don’t need to be a Conan Doyle fan to enjoy this fantastic tour, take in the wonderful locations from village graveyards to Moorland mires.
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4. Take a guided walk 

One of our favourite things to do on Dartmoor is setting off to explore on foot but without a map, it can seem a little daunting so we suggest taking a guide walk. Led by a fully experienced guide, these lovely walks allow you to relax, breathe in the clean air and marvel at the unique beauty that Dartmoor offers. Lose yourself in stories or myths and legends, get closer to history by visiting ancient standing stones or bask in the sun under the protection of a statuesque granite tor. All the while making way for the ponies and livestock that call this swathe of land home.
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5. Go star gazing 

Anyone can look up to the night sky from wherever they are however, with the vast wide-open spaces and very little light pollution, star-gazing on Dartmoor is utterly breath taking. There are plenty of remote car parks dotted around the park so fill up a thermos, grab a blanket and set off to uncover the beauty of the night sky. Various star-gazing events are run throughout the year if you would like to learn a little more, these are guided by enthusiasts who have telescopes set up in the correct position for you.
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From incredible walks to pretty villages, there are so many things to do on Dartmoor plus your dog will be welcome nearly everywhere you go – although you may need to keep them on a lead at certain times of the year.

Join us for a holiday at Oakdown Holiday Park to discover Dartmoor National Park.