Nestled in the heart of Devon, Dartmoor is a region defined by rugged beauty, ancient landscapes, and a lifestyle that is unique to this wild part of the world. Calling Dartmoor home offers a deep connection to nature and history, but what does it really mean to live here?
The Landscape: Beauty at Every Turn
Dartmoor’s scenery is as striking as it is diverse. Rolling moorland, dramatic granite tors, and vast, windswept expanses are dotted with grazing ponies, sheep, and ancient stone formations. Each season paints a different picture—spring and summer bring vibrant gorse and heather, autumn carpets the moor in rich, golden hues, and winter often cloaks the tors in frost or mist.
For residents, the landscape is not merely a backdrop—it’s a way of life. Walks, hikes, and outdoor activities are integral to daily living. The ever-changing weather adds an element of adventure; sunshine and sudden showers often make for memorable outings.
Community: A Warm, Close-Knit Spirit
Dartmoor’s small towns and villages, such as Chagford, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, and Princetown, foster a strong sense of belonging. Local pubs, shops, and events serve as hubs for connection, where friendly faces and a warm welcome are the norm.
The area’s agricultural heritage and creative spirit are celebrated at annual fairs and markets, including:
- Widecombe Fair: Held in September, this event features local crafts, livestock competitions, and a celebration of rural life. Learn more
- Chagford Show: A family-friendly agricultural event held in August with equestrian displays and produce competitions. Learn more
- Okehampton Show: This mid-August event showcases agriculture and family entertainment. Learn more
- Tavistock Goose Fair: A historic event held every October that combines rural traditions with modern attractions. Learn more
Amazing Pubs Full of Character and Charm
Dartmoor is home to some of the most picturesque pubs, offering hearty meals, roaring fires, and stunning surroundings. Some of our favourites include:
- The Warren House Inn: Famous for its 150-year continuously burning fire and panoramic moorland views. Website
- The Rugglestone Inn: A charming, traditional pub in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, offering a welcoming atmosphere and beautiful garden. Website
- The Highwayman Inn: A quirky inn near Okehampton known for its eclectic décor and great food. Website
- The Rock Inn: A beautifully preserved 18th-century inn in Haytor Vale with exceptional food and cosy interiors. Website
- The Kestor Inn: A welcoming pub near Manaton, offering excellent local food and a friendly atmosphere. Website
- Church House Inn: A historic pub in Holne, serving locally sourced food with a cosy retreat feel for walkers and cyclists. More info
- The Royal Oak Inn: Located in Meavy, known for its warm hospitality, local ales, and delightful rural setting. Website
- The Tors Inn: Overlooking Belstone Cleave, this northern Dartmoor pub is perfect for walkers, offering stunning views from its garden. More info
- Bearslake Inn: Nestled in the west of Dartmoor, celebrated for its spacious garden and proximity to walking routes. Website
- Fingle Bridge Inn: Located near Castle Drogo, this riverside pub is a great spot for hikers exploring the Teign Gorge. More info
- The Old Inn: Situated in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, this historic pub is renowned for its traditional charm and excellent food. More info
- The Globe Inn: In Chagford, this pub combines a cosy atmosphere with high-quality local food and drink options. More info
- The Ring of Bells: A traditional village pub in North Bovey, known for its historic charm and superb food and drink options. Website
A Slower, Simpler Pace of Life
Living on Dartmoor means embracing a slower, more deliberate rhythm. Residents take time to savour simple pleasures—a quiet sunrise over the tors, the sound of a babbling brook, or the call of a curlew.
Yet, this simplicity comes with its challenges. Internet and mobile coverage can be unreliable, and everyday conveniences like supermarkets are often a drive away. For those who appreciate peace and natural beauty, these are small sacrifices for the reward of a tranquil lifestyle.
A Rich Historical Tapestry
Dartmoor is steeped in history. Its landscapes are scattered with remnants of ancient civilisations—stone circles, Bronze Age cairns, and medieval farmsteads that whisper stories of the past. Many locals feel a deep responsibility to preserve these treasures for future generations.
Wildlife: Nature as Your Neighbour
Wildlife is a constant presence. Dartmoor’s iconic ponies roam freely alongside deer, foxes, rare birds, and delicate wildflowers. Many residents wake to birdsong or spot animals wandering through their gardens.
Challenges of Moorland Living
Life on Dartmoor is idyllic for many, but it can have its challenges. Winters are harsh, narrow lanes require careful driving, and accessing services like healthcare and schools requires planning. However, for those who adapt, these challenges become part of what makes Dartmoor so unique.
Why Dartmoor Captures Hearts
Dartmoor offers more than just a place to live; it offers a way of life, rooted in natural beauty, history, and community. For those willing to embrace its quirks and challenges, living here is profoundly rewarding. Whether drawn by the landscape, the wildlife, or the chance to escape modern chaos, Dartmoor has a way of capturing hearts—and holding them.
Would you trade city life for the untamed charm of Dartmoor? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. Feel free to contact us for a free consultation about what it’s like to live on or near Dartmoor.
