Glamping on Dartmoor: everything you should know
Are you considering glamping on Dartmoor? One of England’s largest national parks, it’s a haven for anyone who loves the great outdoors – and glamping makes exploring the outdoors much easier!
Born to be wild…. Until nighttime, when a comfy bed is calling!
With glamping, you really can have the best of both worlds – it’s not your average tinned beans and slightly-deflated air mattress type of camping.
Glamping is camping reimagined for those who love nature but also enjoy their creature comforts – think plush beds, hot tubs, and real cookware.
And where’s best to enjoy this glamping experience?
Well, there are glamping-rich destinations all over the world, but Devon’s wild expanse, Dartmoor, has to be up there with one of the best.
Companies like Unique Hideaways operate on Dartmoor, providing their guests with an unmatched glamping experience, perfectly blending the thrill of the outdoors with all the comfort and ease of a high-end hotel.
Here, you’re not just a stone’s throw from nature, you’re right in the thick of it, but with the added bonus of luxurious amenities and a cosy bed for the night!
I’m a Devon local, and Dartmoor is one of my favourite places to visit in the region.
The brooding moorland invokes curiosity, with hiking trails crisscrossing the terrain – and a surprising amount of attractions!
It’s the ideal wild retreat – perfect for soaking in a hot tub or holing up in a cosy cabin!
So, here’s everything you need to know about glamping on Dartmoor!
What is Dartmoor glamping?
In the simplest of terms, glamping on Dartmoor is all about dialling up the comfort factor while keeping you rooted in the wild beauty of nature.
This is no mere camping on Dartmoor experience; it’s the best parts of staying in a comfy hotel and embracing the outdoors with camping, all rolled into one!
So, what can you expect from a Dartmoor glamping trip? Firstly, picture the unruly, untamed expanse of Dartmoor National Park.
Now, place yourself amidst it, not in a flimsy, impossible-to-assemble tent, but in a top-notch accommodation kitted out with actual beds!
There’s running water, proper cooking facilities, and amenities that make it feel like a home from home, only your neighbourhood has been replaced with rolling moorland and perhaps the occasional wild pony.
A deeper connection with nature? Absolutely. But without sacrificing your creature comforts!
Glamping has seen a surge in popularity recently, with modern adventurers who value a balance of natural immersion and convenience.
Why? Because it’s the perfect answer for those who want to balance the wild for those who also hear the call of a comfortable bed, good food, and perhaps a hot tub under the stars.
What’s so special about Dartmoor?
If someone were to ask what’s the deal with Dartmoor? the answer is quite simple – the national park (England’s largest) is one of the only wild expanses of the UK.
It might not be right by Devon’s coastline (although, if you want a day at the beach, the drive isn’t too far!), but the expansive countryside, ancient history of the Tors and archaeological sites and plethora of incredible walks make it a bucket-list UK destination for many.
The spread of wide, open moorland seems to stretch into eternity, punctuated only with rugged tors, and the occasional patch of enchanting woodland.
Covering a mammoth 954 km² (or 368 square miles) of South Devon, Dartmoor National Park sprawls from the charming market town of Tavistock in the west, all the way to the outskirts of vibrant Exeter in East Devon.
Amongst the many highlights of Dartmoor glamping is the chance to explore the varied landscapes of the park.
Hiking trails lead you across the moorlands, up the tors, and through the woods, offering different perspectives of Dartmoor’s beauty at every turn.
You might even encounter some of Dartmoor’s wild ponies!
But it’s not just about the natural landscapes – Dartmoor is steeped in a unique cultural heritage.
Take the village of Lydford, for example, home to the mesmerising Lydford Gorge. Or why not step back in time in the historical town of Okehampton?
For those who lean towards the more tranquil, Wistman’s Wood is a pocket of ancient woodland that feels like Harry Potter’s forbidden forest – just with more moss-strewn trees and fewer beasts!
Then there’s Becky Falls, a gushing waterfall set amongst more lush forest.
But the main charm of Dartmoor is that it delivers time and time again – no two days on the moor here are the same!
I live around a half-hour drive from the moors and there’s always moor (pun intended) on my list.
So whether it’s your first trip to Dartmoor National Park or your 20th, you can guarantee you’ll find enchanting hikes, viewpoints and attractions that’ll make you feel like you’re discovering it for the first time.
Where to glamp on Dartmoor
I adore Unique Hideaways’ properties in Devon, and if you’re looking for places to go glamping on Dartmoor, they offer the best range of high-end properties that still enjoy the wildness of the national park.
They offer a range of – as the name suggests – unique properties in some of the UK’s most beautiful places, never sacrificing luxury but also ensuring that the view out of your window is something special!
If you’re looking for places to glamp on Dartmoor, these three properties in particular are something to write home about!
Room with a View
For those who like to enjoy their nature from a large window, perhaps with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, let us introduce you to ‘Room with a View’.
This is not just any room, but an off-grid cabin, blissfully secluded in a quiet corner of a working farm, situated close to the imposing Haytor within Dartmoor National Park.
Powered by solar panels, this cosy, eco-friendly retreat sleeps two and is a haven for dog lovers.
Step inside, and you’ll be welcomed into an open-plan living space complete with kitchen, dining and bedroom areas.
Everything you need is at your fingertips: a gas cooker, a fridge with an ice box (to store your Devonshire clotted cream!), and a kettle for that morning brew to enjoy on the deck.
Perhaps the pièce de résistance is the wood burner, perfect for cosy nights in.
There’s also a compact shower room complete with a shower, WC and wash basin.
Outside, the enclosed garden features a deck, a fire pit, and garden furniture, perfect for star-gazing evenings or alfresco dining.
‘Room with a View’ is less than two miles from Widecombe in the Moor, and under eight miles from Ashburton and Bovey Tracey.
Nellie’s Nook
Prepare to be smitten by ‘Nellie’s Nook’, a one-of-a-kind shepherd’s hut that serves as the perfect base for a romantic getaway or an idyllic weekend escape.
Tucked away in the peaceful Dartmoor countryside, the vistas around the Nook will enthral at first glance.
Nellie’s Nook oozes rustic charm while offering all the mod cons for a luxuriously comfortable stay.
Inside the hut, you’ll find a lavish king-size bed and a snug wood burner.
The kitchen, though compact, is loaded with all you need to whip up a tasty meal. And, the bathroom boasts a shower and heated towel rail.
Step outside, and you’ll find a private patio complete with a table and chairs, ideal for dining alfresco or simply savouring a cup of tea as the sun rises.
But what truly sets Nellie’s Nook apart is the wood-fired outdoor hot tub.
Pop the prosecco, because this tub just invites unwinding with a glass while taking in the surrounding countryside views!
And, the cherry on top? Nellie’s Nook is conveniently located close to popular attractions throughout Dartmoor National Park and the Tamar Valley.
Even the seaside town of Bude is within reach if you fancy a day at the beach.
Great Links Yurt
Great Links Yurt, a short drive from Tavistock, is a haven for those seeking a family-friendly and eco-friendly retreat.
Winner of a Green Tourism Gold Award, Great Links champions sustainability without compromising on comfort.
Solar energy powers the site, spring water from a natural well is utilised, and rainwater is harvested for the animals and gardens.
Guests even have the chance to contribute to the site’s carbon offset program by planting a tree for a £25 donation.
The yurt is heated by a wood-burning stove, ensuring a cosy atmosphere whatever the weather.
Inside this sustainable haven, you’ll discover a king-size bed, a single day bed, and three single futons – all ready to accommodate two adults and four children comfortably.
It’s a dog-friendly site, so your beloved pet won’t have to miss out!
There’s a private alfresco hot shower and toilet, along with cooking facilities.
Perhaps the most impressive part is the private outdoor space.
Here you’ll find a wood-fired hot tub and a fire pit for those fun-filled family nights of stories and roasting marshmallows under the stars.
And did we mention the views?
Prepare to be awe-struck by the unobstructed vistas of the Dartmoor National Park – a sight that will make you fall in love with Devonshire’s countryside.
Situated a short drive from the town of Tavistock, you’ll never be far from the region’s hiking trails, cycling paths, and water sports activities.
What to Pack for Your Glamping Adventure
One of the many advantages of glamping over traditional camping is that you don’t need to pack the kitchen sink!
However, even though most of the heavy lifting is done for you at Dartmoor’s glamping sites, there are still some essentials to remember.
Here’s a packing checklist to help you prepare for your comfortable outdoor adventure:
1. Clothing and Footwear
Don’t forget to pack clothing suitable for the variable British weather!
Waterproofs, warm layers, and good walking boots are essential for exploring Dartmoor.
And, for lounging around your luxurious glamping site, comfy clothing and slippers are essential.
2. Personal Essentials
All Unique Hideaways are fully furnished with bedding, towels, blankets and cushions, but it’s always a good idea to pack some personal items.
Think toiletries, any prescribed medication, sun cream, bug repellent and perhaps a favourite pillow or blanket for that extra touch of home comfort.
I always do a big online order at Boots before heading out on a staycation to ensure I haven’t forgotten anything.
3. Food and Drink Supplies
Most Dartmoor glamping sites will have cooking facilities on-site – Unique Hideaways provides cooking facilities in all of their accommodations.
However, you’ll need to bring along your food and drink.
Why not plan a few campfire recipes or bring some local Devonshire produce for a real treat?
4. Entertainment
While Dartmoor provides plenty of entertainment in the form of outdoor activities and sightseeing, you may want to pack some books, board games, or playing cards for those cosy nights in.
5. Dog Essentials
If your four-legged friend is joining you, remember to pack their food, water bowl, leash, and favourite toys. Plus, a dog towel usually comes in handy after those muddy walks!
If you’re visiting with a pooch, check out the best dog-friendly glamping sites in Devon!
Are you ready for your Dartmoor glamping adventure?
Discover the boundless beauty of the Devonshire countryside, the historical allure of Dartmoor’s villages and its showstopping landscapes, which are dramatically beautiful whatever the weather!
Then, return each day to a cosy, comfortable space that feels like a home away from home.
Glamping on Dartmoor means you really can have your cake and eat it too – luxury and adventure combine to create the ideal UK adventure.
