A short way inland from the coast lies 368 square miles of outstanding beauty and rugged countryside where you can still find peace and quiet, otherwise known as Dartmoor National Park.

Made up of high moorlands, sheltered river valleys and woody green hillsides, contrasting with vast areas of undulating hills covered in heather and gorse, Dartmoor is renowned for its huge granite "tors" weathered into curious shapes over many thousands of years. An area famous in legend, Dartmoor oozes with history and haunting beauty, while its' hardy ponies can still be seen roaming free.

Many years ago, granite was quarried from Haytor for rebuilding both the British Museum and London Bridge, transported along the a specially designed "granite tramway" which can still be viewed from the 18 mile Templar Way or Haytor itself.

Regardless of the time of year, a visit to Dartmoor makes a great day out. The high moors are traditionally the place for walkers to experience the real joy of the natural environment. Perhaps choose a guided walk and learn about the moor's archaeological heritage, prehistoric remains, wildlife and folklore, or step out on your own trail - you have the freedom to decide. In and around Dartmoor you'll find something going on all year round in the villages and towns with exhibitions, parades, carnivals, fetes and fairs. There is an amazing number of attractions from waterfalls to a restored Victorian copper port, as well as specialist centres for marbles, paperweights and teapots.

Ashburton, sitting on the western side of Dartmoor and dating back 5000 years, was formerly a stannary town and an important staging point for travellers. Nowadays it bustles with arts, crafts and antiques shops, as well as it's weekly Pannier Market on Tuesdays. Each year, on the first Satuday of July, Ashburton plays host to Devon's oldest Carnival Procession, while on the third Saturday there is the 13th centruy "ale and bread weighing" ceremony!

Becky Falls Woodland Park is high on Dartmoor and provides some of the most scenic and enjoyable walks in the south wet, as well as lots of family fun year round.

On the southeast fringe of Dartmoor, sitting on the River Bovey, is the contemporary town of Bovey Tracey. Today evidence of its "clay ball" history can be seen with numerous pottery related craftsmen and businesses. Bovey Tracey is home to the internationally famous Devon Guild of Craftsmen, sited in a 19th century water mill, with themed exhibitions running all year round and also hosts an international Craft Fair each year in June. For a relaxing day why not visit Stover Country Park's 114 acres of woodland, heathland, grassland, lake and marsh and a variety of wildlife.

Buckfastleigh, a good base for walkers and cyclists, used to be an important manufacturing town but now hosts some top visitor attractions, including South Devon's Steam railway, the Otter Sanctuary and Buckfast Abbey which is a working Benedictine monastery. One of the town's quirkier attractions is the Valiant Soldier Pub where time stands still. In the summer visitors can get around Buckfastleigh on the town's free Vintage bus service.

Back in the 18th century, the small town of Moretonhampstead, was a busy coaching stop for travellers between Exeter and Plymouth and is also known as the gateway to the High Moor. These days it makes a great base for outdoor activities including walking, cycling, fishing, bird watching and horse riding.