95% of tourists don’t know THESE Dartmoor unwritten rules
The rolling moorlands of Dartmoor National Park is somewhere that’s on many West Country bucket lists.
However, exploring these moors is certainly no walk in the park. There are some things that all tourists should know – and many don’t.
If you want to avoid getting in trouble in Dartmoor, take a look at these simple rules – and make sure you remember them next time you’re on the moors!
Be VERY careful in foggy conditions
The fog on Dartmoor can roll in unexpectedly, blanketing the moor in a dense, disorienting mist where visibility drops to just a few metres.
Venturing off the marked trails in these conditions can lead even experienced hikers astray, as landmarks quickly disappear in the mist.
If you find yourself caught in a sudden fog, stay on the train – and in severe fog, consider stopping and waiting it out – on Dartmoor, a few minutes of patience can mean the difference between an adventure and a rescue mission!
Know the bog zones
There’s about 8500 ha of bog on Dartmoor, which are a potentially dangerous landscape feature that can look deceptively solid.
Certain areas, like Foxtor Mires, contain deep bogs that can trap the unprepared.
Some visitors have wandered into these areas, mistaking the vibrant green ground as stable footing, only to find themselves sinking knee-deep!
These ‘green patches’ often signal wet ground underneath, so if you see unusually lush grass or small pools forming, it’s wise to avoid them.
Ponies are NOT pets
Dartmoor’s wild ponies are wild and roam freely, so while they may seem approachable, it’s best to admire them from a distance.
Feeding them human food can make them sick, as their diet isn’t designed to handle snacks like bread or fruit.
Plus, when ponies grow used to people feeding them, they begin to approach humans more frequently, which can lead to aggressive behaviour.
Be ready to navigate without GPS
Dartmoor’s remoteness means phone signals often drop out, and relying on GPS alone is a risky move!
The terrain here can look deceptively similar, and landmarks like tors and rock formations can start to blend together, especially in poor weather.
A physical map and a compass are essentials that locals always carry for safe navigation. This is especially prudent if you’re venturing away from the main tors (to be honest, if you’re doing this, I’d recommend investing in an orientation course).
The weather can change in minutes
Dartmoor’s weather has a mind of its own, and anyone familiar with the moor knows how swiftly conditions can shift!
A clear, sunny morning can transform into rain, hail or dense fog within the hour, and temperatures can drop significantly, even in summer.
This unpredictability has caught many visitors unprepared – especially those who assume mild weather will hold!
Rain on Dartmoor can make trails slippery and treacherous, especially around rocky tors, so don’t make the mistake of relying solely on a morning forecast!
Respect the tors – don’t climb precarious rocks
Dartmoor’s tors are both beautiful and dangerous.
These ancient granite rock formations draw climbers, photographers and hikers alike, but while they look solid, their steep edges and loose stones can be hazardous.
Many of these rocks are weather-worn and unstable, and Dartmoor has seen its fair share of accidents from those attempting to climb to the very top for a better view.
Take a look at the best things to do on Dartmoor here.
Stay clear of livestock
Dartmoor’s open moorland is home to grazing livestock, including sheep, cattle, and ponies, which are accustomed to sharing their space with hikers. However, these animals are still unpredictable, especially when young calves or lambs are around, as their mothers may act protectively if they feel threatened.
Give livestock a wide berth, especially cattle, which can weigh over half a ton and are known for their strong maternal instincts (in fact, they’ve been named the UK’s most dangerous animal!)
Avoid walking directly through herds, and never try to feed or interact with the animals.
Instead, respect their space, observe from a distance, and keep dogs on a lead – it’s the best way to ensure a safe hike for both you and the animals.
Some areas are out of bounds
While Dartmoor is vast and open, some sections are off-limits to protect both the landscape and visitors.
For instance, Wistman’s Wood, one of the oldest oak woodlands in Britain, has recently seen a surge in visitors.
Unfortunately, the impact of foot traffic has damaged its delicate ecosystem, prompting conservationists and locals to ask tourists to keep away.
Additionally, large parts of Dartmoor are Ministry of Defence (MOD) training areas, where military exercises, including live firing, regularly occur.
These areas, especially on the north moor, are clearly marked with warning signs and red flags during training.
Access is often restricted for safety reasons, so check MOD schedules online before planning a hike to avoid restricted zones.
You can’t wild camp everywhere
Dartmoor is the only place in England where wild camping is still legally allowed without landowner permission, but this freedom has limits.
Not all areas of Dartmoor permit wild camping, and certain spots have been designated off-limits to protect the landscape.
The areas where wild camping is allowed are generally on the more remote parts of the moor, well away from villages, roads, and popular sites.
Stick to these designated areas, and follow Leave No Trace principles by avoiding open fires, camping out of sight of roads, and packing out all waste.
Exploring Devon? Take a look at my list of the best places to visit here.