If you’re staying at a holiday park in Devon and want to experience Dartmoor properly (without stress), this is the simplest way to do it. Dartmoor is wild, beautiful, and surprisingly accessible — but it rewards a little planning. From Parkers Farm Holiday Park near Ashburton, you can build relaxed Dartmoor days that suit families, couples, and dog owners, without turning your holiday into a long driving mission.
Parkers Farm Holiday Park
Address: Higher Mead Farm, Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7LJ
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Quick answer: what’s the best way to visit Dartmoor for the first time?
Pick one main viewpoint area, do one easy walk, stop for lunch, then return to base early enough to enjoy your evening. Dartmoor is better in “one good loop” than trying to cram in too many places.
What Dartmoor is (and why it feels different to other places in Devon)
Dartmoor is open moorland, tors, wooded valleys, rivers and high, wide views. It’s not a theme park — it’s real landscape. That’s what makes it unforgettable, but it’s also why beginners should treat it with respect: weather changes fast, visibility can drop, and roads can be narrow in places.
Dartmoor safety: the essentials (simple, not scary)
Use this checklist and you’ll be ahead of most first-timers.
- Check the weather before you leave and expect it to change
- Wear footwear with grip (even short walks can be wet underfoot)
- Carry a waterproof layer and an extra warm layer
- Keep a charged phone and a power bank (mapping uses battery)
- Tell someone your plan if you’re doing longer routes
- Stick to clear paths with kids and don’t rely on “shortcuts”
- Be aware of livestock; keep dogs under control and on lead where needed
Parking and access: how to make Dartmoor easy
Dartmoor is full of great stops — but the best experience comes from avoiding chaos.
- Start early if you want quieter car parks and better light
- Choose one main area for the day instead of hopping around
- If a car park is busy, don’t force it — move to a second-choice stop
- Avoid last-minute “shortest route” diversions on narrow lanes if you’re not confident
- Keep coins or payment methods ready for parking where applicable
The best Dartmoor day structure (works for families and couples)
Morning: views + gentle walk
Pick a viewpoint area and do a short walk while energy is high.
Midday: lunch + reset
Do a café stop or picnic. Dartmoor is often breezy — picnics work best with layers and a sheltered spot.
Afternoon: one extra stop (optional)
Add one small second stop only if you have time and weather is stable.
Evening: return to your Devon holiday base
A strong Dartmoor day feels complete when you finish it calmly — not rushing.
Easy Dartmoor walk ideas (beginner-friendly approach)
These are “style” suggestions rather than precise routes, so you can match the day to your group and the weather.
1) Viewpoint stroll (20–40 minutes)
Best for: first-timers, young children, quick photo stops
What it looks like: short paths around a tor area with big views and minimal commitment
2) Woodland valley walk (45–90 minutes)
Best for: families, dog owners, anyone wanting shelter from wind/rain
What it looks like: tree-lined trails, rivers, and gentler gradients
3) Moorland loop (60–120 minutes)
Best for: couples, walkers, older kids
What it looks like: open views, uneven ground, a classic Dartmoor feel
Tip: If you’re unsure, start with a viewpoint stroll. You can always extend it if everyone’s enjoying it.
What to pack for a Dartmoor day (the real essentials)
- Waterproof jacket and an extra layer
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots
- Water and snacks
- Small first aid kit (plasters especially)
- Power bank for phones
- Microfibre towel (mud, rain, dogs, kids)
- A small bag to separate wet gear from dry gear
Dartmoor + “What’s on in Devon” planning (how to widen your holiday)
One of the biggest advantages of staying in a well-located holiday park in Devon is flexibility. Dartmoor can be your “main landscape day”, then you can mix in attractions, towns and coastal trips as the weather allows.
Use these hub pages to plan your week:
- What’s on in Devon: https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/whats-on-in-devon-attractions-near-parkers-farm-ashburton/
- Things to do near Ashburton: https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/things-to-do-near-ashburton-exploring-devon-from-parkers-farm-holiday-park/
Book a Devon base near Dartmoor
If Dartmoor is on your list, staying near Ashburton keeps your days simple and flexible.
Check availability / Book your stay:
https://www.parkersfarmholidays.co.uk/contact-us/
FAQs: Dartmoor for Beginners
Is Dartmoor safe for families?
Yes, if you choose short, clear walks, dress for changing weather, and keep the plan simple. Start with easy viewpoint areas and build up from there.
What should I wear on Dartmoor?
Footwear with grip, layers, and a waterproof outer. Even on a mild day, Dartmoor can feel cooler and windier than nearby towns.
How long do you need for Dartmoor?
You can have a great Dartmoor experience in half a day, but a full day gives you time for a walk, lunch, and a second stop without rushing.
Can you visit Dartmoor in bad weather?
Yes, but adjust the plan: shorter walks, sheltered woodland trails, and earlier return. A good base location makes weather pivots easy.
Where should first-timers start on Dartmoor?
Start with a well-known viewpoint area and a short walk. If everyone enjoys it, add a second stop later in the day.
