Explore Dartmoor Highlights

Dartmoor National Park is one of Devon’s most captivating landscapes, offering wide open views, wildlife, walking trails, historic sites, and peaceful spots perfect for a day outdoors. Just a short drive from Compton Pool, it’s an ideal destination for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys fresh air and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for gentle strolls, scenic viewpoints, adventurous climbs, or quiet places to unwind, Dartmoor has something for everyone. Its rugged charm and ever-changing scenery make every visit feel new, no matter how many times you’ve been before.

Why Dartmoor Is Such a Special Place

Dartmoor’s beauty lies in its variety. Rolling hills blend into wooded valleys, rivers cut through open moorland, and granite tors rise dramatically from the landscape. The park is rich in wildlife and history, with signs of ancient settlements scattered across the moors. Visitors often love the sense of space and freedom Dartmoor offers. It feels peaceful and wild at the same time, making it the perfect place to escape the rush of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

Top Places to Explore on Dartmoor

There are countless spots across the national park worth exploring, each offering something unique. Here are some of the most popular and enjoyable highlights within easy reach of Compton Pool.

Haytor Rocks

Haytor is one of Dartmoor’s most iconic landmarks and a great starting point for visitors of all ages. The granite tor is easy to reach and offers fantastic views across the moorland and out towards the coast. The surrounding landscape is open and spacious, ideal for gentle walks, picnics, and exploring at your own pace. Children especially enjoy climbing parts of the tor, while adults tend to appreciate the sweeping vistas.

Hound Tor

A short drive from Haytor, Hound Tor is another striking formation with its own character. The rocky outcrop is surrounded by walking routes and open fields where Dartmoor ponies can often be seen grazing. The area is atmospheric and interesting, especially for visitors who enjoy photography or exploring rugged scenery. A walk around Hound Tor also brings you close to the remains of a medieval village, adding a fascinating historical element.

Becky Falls

Becky Falls is a beautiful woodland attraction offering marked walking trails, wildlife areas, and a dramatic waterfall. It’s a great choice for families, with routes of varying difficulty and plenty of places to stop and enjoy the surroundings. The waterfall itself is particularly impressive after rainfall, and the mix of woodland, wildlife, and water creates a peaceful setting for a day out.

Widecombe-in-the-Moor

This charming village is a lovely place to explore before or after a walk. With its traditional buildings, beautiful church, and local shops, Widecombe-in-the-Moor gives you a welcoming taste of Dartmoor life. It’s a great stop for refreshments, especially if you fancy a cream tea or a hearty pub meal.

Walking Routes for All Abilities

Dartmoor is full of walking opportunities, from short loops to longer, more adventurous hikes. Many routes are well signposted and suitable for families, making it easy to choose a walk that suits your pace and interests.

Gentle strolls

For an easy outing, try shorter routes around Haytor or the paths near Widecombe. These walks offer great views without requiring too much effort, and they’re perfect for relaxed afternoons on the moors.

Moderate walks

If you’re looking for something with a bit more variety, woodland routes like those at Becky Falls offer a mix of scenery. These walks often include rivers, bridges, and shaded paths, making them enjoyable in both sunny and cooler weather.

Longer adventures

For more experienced walkers, Dartmoor’s open moorland provides endless opportunities for longer routes. You can explore multiple tors in a day or follow trails that take you deeper into the landscape. The sense of space and solitude on these longer walks makes them especially rewarding.

Wildlife and Nature on Dartmoor

One of the highlights of visiting Dartmoor is the chance to encounter local wildlife. The most famous residents are the Dartmoor ponies, which wander freely across the moors. They’re often spotted near car parks and walking trails, creating memorable moments for visitors. You may also see sheep, birds of prey, and seasonal wildflowers depending on the time of year.

Dartmoor ponies

These hardy ponies have lived on the moor for centuries and are an iconic part of the landscape. While they are used to seeing people, it’s important to admire them from a distance to keep them safe and healthy.

Seasonal nature highlights

In spring, the moorland blooms with colour as heather and wildflowers appear. Summer brings long days perfect for walking, while autumn showcases warm, earthy tones across the landscape. Winter visits can be especially atmospheric, with misty mornings and crisp air adding drama to the scenery.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Spending a day on Dartmoor is one of the most rewarding experiences during a stay at Compton Pool. Whether you prefer easy walks, scenic viewpoints, historical sites, or simply enjoying time outdoors, the national park offers a refreshing break from everyday routines. With its peaceful atmosphere, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking views, Dartmoor invites you to slow down and explore at your own pace. Each visit brings something new, and many guests find themselves returning again and again to discover more of this remarkable landscape.