There are a host of fantastic ways to explore Dartmoor National Park in Devon end of summer! With approximately 80 events over eight days the Dartmoor Walking Festival will have you marvelling at dark skies & forest bathing…

 

From its striking granite tors and steep wooded river valleys, to swathes of heather-covered moorland and hidden villages, Dartmoor is a land of contrasts. This is prime walking country, whether stepping out onto Dartmoor or exploring the nearby Tamar Valley. But Dartmoor is not just about the landscape; there is so much more to explore. And why not explore these ancient woodlands, folklore and traditions of Dartmoor while walking.

The all-encompassing Dartmoor walking festival (25 August to 2 September) includes 80 events, ranging from modest guided strolls and children’s rambles to full day walks, workshops and ambitious challenges. Participants can choose from options such as wild camping workshops, forest bathing as well as mountain biking, walking with Dartmoor Ponies, dark sky sessions, climbing tasters and accessible scooter and tramper events. Many of the walks are free with some events charged from £3 to £30 per adult and the last day of the festival given over to sponsored walks in aid of the Devon Air Ambulance.

Also in the vicinity is the The Moorland Garden Hotel which enjoys a beautiful location between the untamed splendour of Dartmoor National Park and the magnificent natural harbour of Plymouth in south Devon.

In July 1934 three fields totalling 12 acres were purchased by five Plymouth business men and one woman, with a view to building The Moorland Links Hotel. The foundation stone was laid on 15th August and the hotel opened for business on 3rd May 1935.

Food is a delight whichever time of year you choose to visit. The kitchen team work with top South West producers to deliver a seasonal menu that encapsulates the best of the West Country, with a focus on letting the ingredients speak for themselves. During the summer months, the hotel also offers gourmet picnics in its tranquil Wildflower Meadow.

Boarded by open moorland with wandering Dartmoor ponies, the nine acres of tranquil gardens are particularly popular with children, who love exploring the quirky sculptures, and couples seeking their dream wedding venue.

This year Dartmoor Walking Festival organisers are teaming-up with the Dartmoor-365 Facebook group who have over 7,000 followers and so attract many more potential walkers. All of the events will be labelled according to the grid in the Dartmoor 365 book by John Hayward which is enjoying a resurgence of popularity.

Guests can avail themselves to guided walks, OS maps and staff with detailed local knowledge. And dogs are made most welcome at the hotel, and some festival events.