Walking the Dartmoor Way is an excellent way to experience the diverse landscapes and rich history of the Dartmoor region of South West England. The Dartmoor Way is a circular walking trail that is approximately 78 miles long and takes around 6-8 days to complete, depending on your pace and level of fitness.
The trail starts and ends in Ivybridge, a small town situated on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, and passes through a variety of landscapes, including open moorland, woodlands, and river valleys. The route is well-marked, with signposts and waymarkers to guide hikers along the way.
Along the route, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as encounter a wealth of wildlife, including wild ponies, deer, and a variety of bird species. The trail also passes by several historic landmarks, including ancient stone circles, hill forts, and medieval churches.
Accommodation options along the route are plentiful, with a range of campsites, B&Bs, and hotels available in the nearby towns and villages. There are also plenty of pubs and cafes along the way, providing opportunities for refreshments and rest.
Map of Dartmoor Way
Interactive Map of the Dartmoor Way
10 Day Walk Itinerary – Dartmoor Way
Stage | Starting Point | Distance (miles) | Ascend (feet) |
Day 1 | Ivybridge to Shipley Bridge | 10 | |
Day 2 | Shipley Bridge to Ashburton | 10.5 | |
Day 3 | Ashburton to Bovey Tracey | 12.3 | |
Day 4 | Bovey Tracey to Moretonhampstead | 10.6 | |
Day 5 | Moretonhampstead to Chagford | 8 | |
Day 6 | Chagford to Okehampton | 12.2 | |
Day 7 | Okehampton to Lydford | 9.7 | |
Day 8 | Lydford to Tavistock | 12.8 | |
Day 9 | Tavistock to Shaugh Bridge | 11.6 | |
Day 10 | Shaugh Bridge to Ivybridge | 12 |