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
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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 |