Attractions

One of the Dartmoor's oldest historical sites is Lydford Castle. It boasts three well-preserved defensive features - a 13th-century tower on a mound originally built as a prison, an earlier earthwork Norman castle and a traditional Saxon defence.  

Although it is managed by the English Heritage, the site can be visited anytime during daylight hours and entrance is free. Free car parking is also available opposite The Castle Inn, making this an affordable yet enjoyable day out for all. 

Another must-visit medieval Dartmoor attraction is Hound Tor Village.  The ancient settlement was abandoned around 700 years ago, leaving nothing today but the ruins of the original 13th-century stone houses. The walk to the site from Swallerton Gate car park is half a mile over Hound Tor and includes a relatively challenging climb, so stout footwear is essential. You also need to keep an eye out for the sheep and ponies that graze the area, helping to preserve the landscape. 

Hound Tor is fairly remote, so we recommend packing a picnic to enjoy al fresco if the weather is good or heading to the pub in nearby Widecombe in the Moor, a small village approximately three miles away. Either way, if atmospheric adventures in the natural environment are your kind of thing, then Hound Tor will definitely be up your street.

More recent but no less interesting Dartmoor attractions are Castle Drogo and Bovey Castle. 

The last castle to be built in England, Castle Drogo, is located high above the ancient woodlands of the Teign Gorge. Inspired by the rugged Dartmoor landscape, it was designed by renowned 20th-century architect Sir Edwin Lutyens and includes many fascinating features, including hydroelectric turbines that powered the castle.

The site is now owned and managed by the National Trust, meaning as well as the castle, you can explore the grounds and sample the delights of the on-site café and shop. 

Bovey Castle was also built in the 1900s, originally as a family mansion for a hereditary peer, before becoming one of the first hotel and golf resorts run by the Great Western Railway in the 1930s. Set in 275 acres of glorious countryside, today, it operates as a luxury hotel and hosts many outdoor activities, including golf, off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting. So, once you’ve learnt more about the history of the house, you can have a go at one of the many activities on offer.  

Dartmoor is home to a wealth of National Trust attractions, so whether you are a National Trust member or just love visiting their attractions, you’re spoilt for choice when venturing out of the hotel. 

Top of our list includes Finch Foundry, a working forge powered by water that produced over 400 tools a day in its heyday, and Wheal Betsy, an ancient silver-lead mine. While for those who prefer to explore outdoors, our top National Trust attraction in Dartmoor has to be Lyford Gorge, the deepest gorge in the South West. The waterfall and Devil’s cauldron car parks are both open from 10am to 4pm daily, and tickets range from £12 for adults and £6 for children.

Nestled in the heart of Dartmoor, just a few miles south of our hotel, Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park has a decidedly family-friendly vibe.

Its namesake waterfall is a sight to behold and has been open as a visitor attraction since 1903. But there's much more to discover nowadays, including the chance to see a host of animals, wander through nature trails, get involved with the many fun family activities or visit the on-site café for a bite to eat. 

Entry costs £13.50 for adults and £10 for children aged 4-15, with discounted family tickets available.

And in case you haven't had your fill, the nearby Canonteign Falls is just as delightful. It boasts the highest waterfall in Dartmoor, as well as lakes, walking trails, special talks and an adventure playground. You can even walk an alpaca through the stunning wooded area!

Tickets range from £15 for adults to £8.50 for children, plus there are several different family saver tickets available, so no one misses out on the fun.

Everyone loves a steam train, right? Head to Buckfastleigh on the southeastern edge of Dartmoor, and you can ride one in real life, courtesy of the South Devon Railway. 

Once aboard, you'll chuff your way through some of Devon's most beautiful scenery as you take a two-hour trip from Buckfastleigh to Totnes and back. 

With regular trains running throughout the day as well as unique experience trips, including a murder mystery or a chance to drive the train, it really does offer something for everyone. You can even take your four-legged friend along for the ride!

Another great heritage attraction is the House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey. Here, young and old alike can learn about the art of glassmaking, play games and witness the UK's largest marble run. The museum also hosts regular events throughout the year, from craft workshops to restaurant evenings, making it a great destination for those looking to experience something new. The best bit? The museum is completely free to enter and has plenty of free on-site parking.

A popular family farm park, it is home to some of the cutest animals on the planet, including miniature donkeys, miniature pigs and a herd of ponies (miniature, of course). But that's not all. Pennywell also boasts exciting rides, bouncy castles, plenty of food and drink options and daily activities, like tractor rides and goat walking. They even host special events throughout the year, so be sure to check out what’s on before your visit. Tickets cost £22.95 for adults and £18.95 for children, so it is one of the pricier days out on our list of Dartmoor attractions, but this includes unlimited animal cuddles and free farmyard rides.

Slightly further afield near Exeter, you'll find Crealy Theme Park – a full-blown amusement park with rides for all ages. With over 60 rides and attractions, live shows and animals, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy. 

With live puppet shows, a range of gentle rides and a meet and greet with Sooty and his friends, Sooty Land is sure to be a hit with the smallest members of your family, while older children are likely to enjoy the thrill of rides like Twister and Tidal Wave or exploring the immersive play areas. Just be sure to pack your child’s swimming gear (or at the very least a change of clothes) so they can get stuck in at the soak zone. 

Ticket prices vary throughout the year, with peak prices in the school holidays, but unlike many attractions, the price is based on height, not age. You should also be aware that ride opening times are staggered to help manage queues, so be sure to check beforehand and plan your day accordingly.

If you’re looking for a Dartmoor attraction close to the hotel, you can’t beat Green Hill Arts. Set in a converted primary school, it is one of Devon's most respected art galleries and is a real treasure trove for art lovers. There's always something interesting happening, whether it's an exhibition of local artworks, a craft workshop or an interactive multimedia experience. The gallery also hosts a shop, a youth centre and studio spaces for artists and craftspeople.

Just next to Green Hill Arts in Moretonhampstead, you'll find this gorgeous Grade I-listed parish church. Standing on top of the hills of Dartmoor, St Andrew's remains at the heart of the local community to this day. Dating from the 15th century, it's well worth visiting, whether you love ecclesiastical architecture or just want to soak up the surrounding scenery. Of particular note is the beautiful organ, which was installed in 1905.

Fancy a dip? Open from May to September, Moretonhampstead Community Swimming Pool, located on the eastern edge of Dartmoor is popular with families and keen swimmers. The 25m x 14m outdoor pool is heated by solar power and heat pumps, so you'll never feel the chill. 

With a grassed area with picnic tables and an on-site tuck shop selling snacks and hot and cold drinks, you can spend the day relaxing by the pool. Swim sessions range from £5 for adults to £3.50 for children, making it a fun and affordable Dartmoor attraction.