The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Dartmoor Forest

Embark on the Postbridge and Bellever Tor Trail, a moderate hike spanning 4.7 miles (7.6 km) with an elevation gain of 462 feet (141 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 7 minutes. As you hike, you will experience a diverse landscape, moving from broad grassy bridlepaths and gravel roadways into winding paths through coniferous forests. The trail then opens up to expansive moorland, where you might spot Dartmoor ponies grazing amidst striking granite tors. A highlight is the ascent to Bellever Tor, offering panoramic 360-degree views of Dartmoor's rugged beauty from its jumble of wind-sculpted granite rocks.

This trail is generally accessible and a popular choice for many visitors to Dartmoor National Park. Parking is typically available near Postbridge, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. While no specific warnings are noted for this route, it is always wise to check local conditions before you head out. Planning your visit around good weather will enhance your experience on the exposed moorland sections.

The Postbridge and Bellever Tor Trail offers a rewarding experience for various ages and fitness levels within Dartmoor National Park. This circular walk provides a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique natural environment of Dartmoor, characterized by its ancient granite formations and wide-open spaces. It is a fantastic way to discover the distinctive landscape and wildlife of this protected area.

Embark on a difficult 14.7-mile (23.6 km) hike through Dartmoor National Park, a challenging adventure that takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes to complete. You will gain 937 feet (286 metres) in elevation as you traverse varied terrain, from uphill climbs through forests to open moorland and rugged tors. Expect natural ground, gravel tracks, and rocky sections, especially around landmarks like King's Tor and the striking Foggintor Quarry, which offers sweeping views across the park and its tranquil reservoir.

This demanding route requires very good fitness, so plan to allocate a full day for your journey. Be sure to carry plenty of water and snacks to sustain you throughout the hike. The terrain can be muddy and uneven, particularly after rain, so sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are essential. Given the exposed moorland sections, weather conditions can change quickly, so dress in appropriate layers.

Discover a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty along the way, from the serene waters of Burrator Reservoir, vital for Plymouth's drinking supply, to the historic Princetown village with its famous prison and church built by Napoleonic War prisoners. You will also walk sections of the old Princetown railway line, once used to transport quarry materials and prisoners. Keep an eye out for Foggintor Quarry, a visually striking site that provided granite for London landmarks and has even featured in films.

Embark on the Postbridge & Fernworthy Reservoir loop, a difficult 13.5-mile (21.7 km) hike in Dartmoor National Park that challenges you with 1256 feet (383 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 6 hours. This route guides you through varied terrain, from untouched moorland to dense forest paths and the tranquil shoreline of Fernworthy Reservoir. You will experience a notable steep ascent to Hartland Tor, offering expansive views, and traverse areas that can be wet and boggy, especially near river headwaters, so be prepared for uneven ground.

Starting from the picturesque hamlet of Postbridge, this loop is considered difficult primarily due to its sustained distance rather than extreme climbs, though the ascent to Hartland Tor is a significant feature. While seasoned hikers might find the overall elevation manageable, the length requires good fitness and sure-footedness. Plan your visit to account for potentially wet conditions, and ensure you have appropriate footwear for the mixed surfaces you will encounter throughout the day.

This trail is rich in history and natural beauty, featuring several prehistoric sites like the Grey Wethers Stone Circles, a well-known double stone circle. Fernworthy Reservoir itself is a haven for wildlife, home to rare species such as the marsh fritillary butterfly and various birds. When water levels are low, you might even spot a submerged clapper bridge that once crossed the South Teign River, adding another layer of historical intrigue to your journey through Dartmoor's diverse landscapes.