Dartmoor & Exmoor

Introduction

The ancient harbor of Dartmouth is the gateway to this Walk across the dramatic open spaces of Dartmoor and Exmoor in the South West of England.

Here we walk meadow-paths and narrow lanes, crossing rivers and passing through thatched hamlets, stopping for hearty pub lunches and a traditional Devon Cream Tea. We explore Castle Drogo – the last castle to be built in England – 300 meters above Dartmoor, and rest at the Hound Tor.

Leaving Dartmoor we discover the wild uplands of Exmoor, where we might spot a native pony or a red deer, Britain’s largest wild animal. We enjoy sweeping views from Dunkery Beacon across the Bristol Channel to Wales.

Walk Summary

Dates	07-Jun-09 - 14-Jun-09 20-Sep-09 - 26-Sep-09
Trip	8 days, 7 nights
Terrain	Pastoral countryside, estuaries, woodlands, wild uplands and open moorland. Some hills. 12-14 miles walking per day. (Walk rating is three due to long mileage not arduous paths.)
Price	US$3895.00 per person double occupancy (single supplement US$495.00)

Walk begins in Dartmouth, with arrival at Totnes Station and ends in Taunton, with departure from Taunton Rail Station.

Walk Highlights

We'll start here

Sunday

Rendezvous in Dartmouth. With a naval tradition stretching back to Drake, the bustling, picturesque harbor is a welcome haven for visiting yachts from around the world. We take an afternoon's walk from One Gun Point along the coast to Stoke Fleming and enjoy Afternoon Tea at a private home overlooking Start Bay and its distant lighthouse.

Overnight: Dartmouth

Monday

Meadow paths and narrow lanes criss-cross the hills to a pub lunch at Bow Creek. We enjoy splendid views of the Dart valley as we follow the bickering river to ancient Totnes. We visit Dartington Hall, where the 14th-century house overlooks the medieval tiltyard and gardens.

Overnight: Totnes

Tuesday

We walk on the banks of the river Dart, which follows a rock-strewn course overhung by ancient oak. We pass thatched hamlets and farms before reaching Widecombe-in-the-Moor for a pub lunch and a visit to the 15th-century Glebe House and famous church. We rest at Hound Tor for glorious views across the moor before descending to Manaton and continuing to Moretonhampstead.

Overnight: Moretonhampstead

Wednesday

We continue our exploration of Dartmoor, and at Fingles Bridge we cross the river Teign. Our path overlooks the valley and brings us to splendid Castle Drogo, designed by the architect Sir Edwin Lutyens; the castle is perched 900 feet above sea level. After lunch, we arrive at the delightful thatched village of Drewsteignton and tracks lead us to the small community of Cheriton Bishop.

Overnight: Tiverton

Thursday

Our day begins in Witheridge, as we walk along the Little Dart River to Bradford Mill. We pass homesteads with strange names like Rugglepitt and Owlaborough, before reaching our pub lunch at Knowstone. We cross the River Yeo valley and leave Devon's ordered pastures for the untamed uplands of Exmoor, descending to cross an ancient stone clapper bridge to our secluded hotel beside the chattering River Barle.

Overnight: Tarr Steps

Friday

We walk to Varle Hill, hoping to see the tough little ponies, Britain's oldest breed, which run wild on the open moors. On Winsford Hill we explore the burial mounds of Bronze Age chiefs. A bracken-fringed path brings us to a deep valley leading to pretty Winsford and lunch in a thatched pub. Following the Exe valley we reach the hidden little village of Exford.

Overnight: Exford

Saturday

A track leads to Dunkery Beacon, where the vast expanse of Exmoor is laid out before and beneath us. On our trail to a pub lunch at Wootton Courtenay we may see the red deer, Britain's largest wild animal. We enjoy grand views across the Bristol Channel to Wales and the Welsh Mountains as we descend to medieval Dunster. We drive to Taunton, the county town of Somerset, for our Farewell Dinner in The Castle Hotel.

Overnight: Taunton

Sunday

After breakfast, there is time for shopping before making our onward rail connections.

This itinerary represents a typical Walk. We prepare itineraries well in advance of the trip and therefore we reserve the right to make changes due to weather, local events or other circumstances - but always to improve the experience of our guests.

Hotels

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The Royal Castle Hotel - Sunday

Dartmouth
Devon TQ6 9PS
T: +44 (0)1803-833-033
F: +44 (0)1803-835-445
E: enquiry@royalcastle.co.uk
W: www.royalcastle.co.uk

The award winning, 17th century Royal Castle Hotel is privately owned and perfectly located in the heart of Dartmouth, overlooking the inner harbour and Dart estuary. In particular, the newly refurbished NU restaurant makes the most of the picturesque river views while guests enjoy exciting, contemporary dining.

All bedrooms are individually furnished, some having four-poster beds, luxury spa baths and/or pictureque river or harbour views. All offer natural toiletries and guest bathrobes in the ensuite bath or shower room, direct dial telephone, hospitality tray, satellite TV and hairdryer. This hotel is particularly dedicated to following environmentally friendly policies.

Mill End Hotel - Tuesday

Mill End Hotel

Dartmoor National Park
Chagford
Devon TQ13 8JN

T : 01647 432282
F : 01647 433106
E: info@millendhotel.com
W: www.millendhotel.com

Mill End feels more like a comfortable country house than a hotel.

Tucked away in one of England’s most beautiful regions, Mill End provides the perfect blend of country house charm and warmth, and as one of the AA’s Top 200 hotel and restaurants in the country, you will enjoy superb accommodation and exceptional food and wines in an idyllic location.

Tarr Farm Inn - Thursday

Tarr Farm Inn

Tarr Steps
Dulverton
Exmoor National Park TA22 9PY

T: +44 (0)1643-851-507
E: enquires@tarrfarm.co.uk
W: www.tarrfarm.co.uk

Set in it's own 40 acres, 16th century Tarr Farm Inn nestles just above Tarr Steps and the River Barle. Only 7 miles from Dulverton, through beautiful wooded valleys and across the open moorland of Winsford Hill with it's stunning views of Wales, Devon and Dartmoor, it is the ideal location to take advantage of all that Exmoor National Park has to offer.

Water sports on Wimbleball Lake, Salmon and Trout fishing on the River Exe and Barle. No expense has been spared in the beautiful individually furnished Bedrooms, with organic toiletories in the en-suite bathrooms, Sky TV, DVD, CD and Video, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, a selection of teas and coffees, Cafetierre, hot chocolate, homemade cookies and fresh milk in your fridge, which can be stocked with beers, wines or miniatures on request. Top quality beds with crisp white Egyptian cotton sheets add the finishing touch to pure comfort and relaxation.

Each room is also equipped with direct dial phones with voice mail, pull out desk with personal connection for lap top email and internet access. Tarr Farm Restaurant has built ifself an enviable reputation for serving 'fabulous food in wonderful surroundings'. We aim to provide the finest meals on the moor in an informal and relaxed atmosphere, serving only the finest locally produced food wherever possible, sourcing our fresh produce from local farms and suppliers in Devon and Somerset.

Beside the enjoyment to be had exploring Exmoor, there are a number of country pursuits for guests to enjoy, some of which include Horse Riding, Clay Pigeon Shooting & Fly Fishing.

Castle Hotel atTaunton - Saturday

Castle Hotel atTaunton

Castle Green
Taunton TA1 1NF

T: +44 (0)1823-272-671
F: +44 (0)1823-336-066
W: www.the-castle-hotel.com

The Castle at Taunton is steeped in the drama and romance of English history. Once a Norman fortress, it has been welcoming travellers to the town since the 12th century. In 1685, the Duke of Monmouth·s officers were heard "roystering at the Castle Inn" before their defeat by the forces of King James II at Sedgemoor. Shortly after, Judge Jeffreys held his Bloody Assize in the Great Hall of the Castle.

Today the Castle lives at peace with its turbulent past but preserves the atmosphere of its ancient tradition. The Chapman family have been running the hotel for 50 years and in that time it has acquired a worldwide reputation for the warmth of its hospitality.

This hotel list is a provided as an example. We may use different hotels of the same quality and style on specific trips. The Wayfarers will notify confirmed travelers of any changes to the hotels.

Photo Gallery

Reaching Dunkery Hill - highest point on Dartmoor.

On Exmoor - views across the Severn Estuary to Wales.

Travel Information

Before & After

Spend time in Exeter, the County Town of Devon - and, perhaps, attend Choral Evensong in the great cathedral
Stay on in Taunton, the County Town of Somerset, for shopping and the chance to taste the celebrated regional cider
Explore more wonderful coastal trails on the north and south coasts of neighboring Cornwall

Weather:

Temperatures usually range from around 45º to 65ºF (7º to 18ºC) in spring/autumn and from 60º to 70º F (15º to 21ºC) in summer although it can rise to around 80º F (27ºC) on some days. You are likely to need a light jacket or sweater in the evenings. Rainfall is unpredictable - particularly on the high moors - but occurs all year round and can be heavy, even in summer. Equally there can be long spells of warm dry weather so you will need to bring clothing to accommodate all situations

To see more Travel Information and a list of our recommended tips please register or sign in. Once you confirm a booking for this walk, as a registered website member, you will be able to access detailed Joining Instructions including exact arrival and departure points and times as part of the Travel Information.

FAQs

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Are there any hidden costs?
Our Vacations do not include the cost of air or rail fares to and from the destination or tips for your walk leader and manager.
How large are the Groups?
Our maximum group size is 16, but groups average between 8-12 people.
Will I feel welcome as a single traveler?
Yes! Our walks are the perfect environment of comfortable camaraderie for the single traveler.
Can you accomodate special diets?
Yes!
How physically fit do I have to be to do a Wayfarers Walk?
If you are in good health and reasonably fit you will be comfortable participating in a walk.

Ask a question

Please do not hesitate to ask us a question about this walk.

Reading List

Hounds of the Baskervilles By: Arthur Conan Doyle

Buy book: Hounds of the Baskervilles

What's the truth behind the legend of the hound of the Baskervilles? Is it really a devil-beast that's haunting the lonely moors? Enter Sherlock Holmes to find the answer, in this, the only full-length novel ever written by the creator of one of the most popular and enduring detective series ever written.

Lorna Doone By: R.D. Blackmore

Buy book: Lorna Doone

This is an illustrious historical romance set in the backdrop of the Monmouth Rebellion in the 17th century during the reign of Charles II. John Ridd and his family are threatened by the Doones, the family of outlaws. The young boy explores a new world and meets a beautiful girl with whom he falls in love. The twists and turns of the plot and striking landscapes of Badgworthy valley are pleasant.

Notes from a Small Island By: Bill Bryson

Buy book: Notes from a Small Island

Before his return to the U.S. after a 20-year residence in England, journalist Bryson embarked on a farewell tour of his adopted homeland. His trenchant, witty and detailed observations of life in a variety of towns and villages will delight Anglophiles. Traveling only on public transportation and hiking whenever possible, Bryson wandered along the coast through Bournemouth and neighboring villages that reinforced his image of Britons as a people who rarely complain and are delighted by such small pleasures as a good tea. In Liverpool, the author's favorite English city, he visited the Merseyside Maritime Museum to experience its past as a great port. Interweaving descriptions of landscapes and everyday encounters with shopkeepers, pub customers and fellow travelers, Bryson shares what he loves best about the idiosyncrasies of everyday English life in this immensely entertaining travel memoir.

The English Landscape: It's Character and Diversity By: Bill Bryson

Buy book: The English Landscape: It's Character and Diversity

"You are very lucky in England. The English Landscape is a stunning volume of essays and photographs celebrating the breadth, diversity, and delicacy of the English countryside. A distinguished selection of writers such as the Duchess of Devonshire, Richard Mabey, Anna Parord, Christopher Lloyd, Robin Hanbury-Tenbison, Marina Warner, Dame Jennifer Jenkins, and David Bellamy pay homage to their favorite parts of the English landscape. Complete with color photographs and maps, The English Landscape will engage Anglophiles, travel enthusiasts, and literature buffs alike.

Credition Killings By: Michael Jecks

Buy book: Credition Killings

14th century Devon and a gang of mercenaries are becoming a nuisance to the local villages. Mercenaries are a common enough site in these troublesome times but this group are particularly troublesome, showing no respect for anyone and seducing what local girls they can get hold of. Then one of the young girls is found murdered and hidden in a chest. Is the killer one of the mercenaries, or is it one of the locals? Sir Baldwin needs to find out as quickly as possible before another murder is committed.

A Walk Through Britain By: John Hillaby

Buy book: A Walk Through Britain

What does it mean to be English these days? That's what journalist and TV quiz master Paxman wonders in this study of British identity. A humorous, ironic, nostalgic, skeptical, dilettantish, mildly eccentric, self-deprecating and proud account (like its subject), the book surveys the various aspects of stereotypical English identity one by one in realms ranging from sex to food. Although he occasionally gives too much credence to flimsy stereotypes and is unnecessarily harsh on the subject of the cult of the English countryside, on the whole, Paxman offers an intriguing investigation. His sociohistorical survey rambles through characteristic attitudes toward foreigners, the weather, religion, the home, sport, language and the countryside. Based on book research, personal observation and Paxman's interviews with Brits including John Cleese and the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, this odd collection of theoretical musings, historical tidbits and quirky observations should serve as both a corrective and a comfort for Anglophiles in Britain and elsewhere.

The Lives of the Kings and Queens of England By: Antonia Fraser

Buy book: The Lives of the Kings and Queens of England

In 1066 William the Conqueror captured the English throne, and since that time 39 kings and queens have reigned over the British dominions. Their lives, alliances, whims, delusions, and intrigues have had an incalculable influence on the culture, politics, and very boundaries of the entire world. The names and dates come fast and furiously, but here are a few facts: Over half of France was in England's possession during the reign of Henry II. Richard III was the last English monarch to die on the battlefield. And, as a 19-year-old princess, Queen Elizabeth II joined the Auxiliary Transport Service as a mechanic in the final days of WWII.

The making of the English Landscape By: W.G. Hoskins

Buy book: The making of the English Landscape

The best introduction to the evolution of the the English landscape. For professionals, students, travelers and all who seek to understand the processes - natural and human - behind the scenery, this is the best place to start. Erudite and readable with great photos and illustrations. Must take it with you on your next visit.

The Secret Lion: Fact/Fiction History By: C.W. Gortner

Buy book: The Secret Lion: Fact/Fiction History

It's 1553, and, with England's teenaged King Edward VI near death, Northumberland is the country's de facto ruler. Next in line for the throne are Edward's sisters, first Mary and then Elizabeth. But Northumberland doesn't intend to relinquish his power; he determines to keep control of the throne for himself, and no expediency is beneath him. Once you step into the luxurious pages of The Secret Lion, you will find yourself on an excursion full of intricate plots, rich settings and historical themes. The time is sixteenth century Tudor England, during the riveting and exquisite renaissance period. Brendan Prescott is ordered as squire to pompous Lord Robert Dudley, a position he soon finds filled with peril. Trust and honor are fiercely tested when those who hold an esteemed position in the high court serve most prominently as a threat. It would seem the castle walls have eyes and ears. As a series of lies and secrets unravel, the young squire must change the course of events placed before him to ensure Princess Elizabeth's future while facing haunting elements about his past.

Tournament of Blood By: Michael Jecks

Buy book: Tournament of Blood

The story takes place in the spring of 1322, the setting a tournament held by Lord Hugh de Courtenay. The money lenders of Oakhampton see this as a great opportunity to fill their coffers. When the knights who are defeated find themselves unable to pay the ransoms to their opponents they will require the services of the money lenders, but one of the money lenders will not get the opportunity to do business. Benjamin Dudenay is found beaten to death before the tournament begins. Sir Baldwin and his friend Simon have the task of completing the preparations for the tournament before Lord Hugh arrives but when the man commissioned to build the stands is found dead in an identical way to Benjamin, Sir Baldwin and Simon Puttock find themselves embroiled in the search for a killer.

Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare By: Stephen Greenblatt

Buy book: Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare

There's no shortage of good Shakespearean biographies. But Stephen Greenblatt, brilliant scholar and author, reminds us that the "surviving traces" are "abundant but thin" as to known facts. Greenblatt uses the "verbal traces" in Shakespeare's work to take us "back into the life he lived and into the world to which he was so open." Whenever possible, he also ushers us from the extraordinary life into the luminous work. The result is a marvelous blend of scholarship, insight, observation, and, yes, conjecture--but conjecture always based on the most convincing and inspired reasoning and evidence. Particularly compelling are Greenblatt's discussions of the playwright's relationship with the university wit Robert Greene (discussed as a chief source for the character of Falstaff) and of Hamlet in relation to the death of Shakespeare's son Hamnet, his aging father, and the "world of damaged rituals" that England's Catholics were forced to endure. It is the story, too, of 16th- and 17th-century England writ large, the story of religious upheaval and political intrigue, of country festivals and brutal public executions, of the court and the theater, of Stratford and London, of martyrdom and recusancy, of witchcraft and magic, of love and death: in short, of the private but engaged William Shakespeare in his remarkable world.

What's Next?

At this point we would like to thank you for looking at our website, we hope you will have seen a little of the places we walk to, hotels we stay in and that we have answered some of your questions.

For more information contact our team who are waiting for your questions. Alternatively we suggest you choose one of the following:

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As always with The Wayfarers, there is plenty to see and explore on this website, we love to hear from any Wayfarers and look forward to tempting you to join us on the trail!