If you’re a fan of mysteries, dark legends, or just want to experience one of England’s most captivating landscapes with a twist of Gothic storytelling, this tour might be right up your alley. We haven’t personally dodged spectral hounds or explored every twist and turn of Dartmoor’s rugged terrain, but based on the details, it sounds like a compelling day out that combines scenery, history, and a dash of Gothic gloom.
What really appeals to us are the chance to see iconic locations that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the storytelling aspect that brings Dartmoor’s eerie tales to life. Plus, the private guiding service and carefully curated stops promise a personalized experience. A potential downside? At 8 hours, it’s a long day, especially if you’re not used to outdoor adventures or visiting multiple historic sites. Still, it’s suited best for those who love stories, history, or just want to see Dartmoor through a different lens.
This tour is a solid pick for history buffs, mystery lovers, and curious travelers eager to connect lore with landscape. It’s not tailored specifically for kids, and those with mobility issues might find some locations challenging, but overall, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Dartmoor’s dark side.
Key Points
- Private Guided Experience: You get a tailored, intimate tour with a dedicated guide, enhancing storytelling and site visits.
- Historical and Folklore Rich: The tour explores real locations linked with Dartmoor’s ghost stories, legends, and the actual basis for “The Hound of the Baskervilles.”
- Beautiful and Haunting Landscapes: Expect sweeping vistas, ruins, and sites that seem to whisper tales of old, all within Dartmoor’s rugged beauty.
- Full-Day Adventure: At 8 hours, it’s a comprehensive outing, perfect if you want an immersive experience.
- Cost-Effective for Private Groups: For $740.85 for up to 6 people, it offers personalized service and access to multiple sites.
- Not for Everyone: Suitability depends on outdoor activity comfort; it’s not ideal for young children, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels.
Exploring Dartmoor’s Dark Tales and Scenic Beauty
This tour promises a day filled with both stunning views and chilling stories. From the outset, you’ll be picked up from a convenient location, with options in Torquay, Plymouth, Exeter, Newton Abbot, or directly from Dartmoor itself. That flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel plans, whether you’re arriving locally or coming from farther afield.
Once underway, the first notable stop is Ashburton. This charming town offers a quick photo opportunity and a chance for a guided walk, setting the scene with scenic views and a sense of place. Here, you might start feeling the vibe of Dartmoor’s old tales, as the landscape and history mingle.
Next, Holy Trinity Church is a highlight—an evocative spot with a long history and stories of ghostly encounters that fit right into the Gothic mood. It’s a place where the past feels very much alive, especially when paired with the haunting tales locals still cling to.
Then, it’s out into the wilderness of Dartmoor itself for a couple of hours. The landscape is breathtaking — barren hills, moody skies, and ancient ruins make for perfect scenery that seems to have stepped straight out of a Gothic novel. Our impression? You’ll love the views and the sense of stepping into a storybook where the landscape itself whispers secrets.
Stopping at Widecombe-in-the-Moor for a lunch break offers a chance to rest and soak in the village charm. The tour doesn’t include meals but has options for you to book your own, giving you flexibility and the chance to try some local fare.
In Princetown, you’ll get a guided tour of the historic site—once the home of Dartmoor Prison, now a place brimming with stories of old. The ruins at Grimspound are another highlight, offering a glimpse into ancient life on the moor, with enough mystery to keep even the most skeptical intrigued.
Throughout the day, your guide will steer you through stories of cursed maidens, headless horse-drawn carriages, and trolls, blending legend with reality. As one reviewer noted, “It was fascinating to hear the real tales behind the fictional horror,” which adds a layer of depth to the experience.
Finally, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back, passing through locations that have inspired or been connected to the legend. The entire day feels like a journey through time and myth, where each stop is like flipping a page in a Gothic novel.
Planning more time in Dartmoor? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package is quite comprehensive for the price. The private guiding service means you won’t be stuck with a group of strangers, and your guide will tailor the experience to your interests. Transportation, parking, and ferry costs are covered, which simplifies logistics. Plus, you’ll receive complimentary photos of your day, so you can relive the tales and vistas long after.
On the downside, meals and refreshments aren’t included, so budget for lunch or snacks. Entrance fees at venues like National Trust sites or English Heritage locations are also on you. The tour is designed for those who enjoy walking around historic sites and scenic drives, so comfortable outdoor footwear is a must.
The Experience in Practice
What really stands out is the attention to storytelling detail. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s a narrative journey that connects legends to physical sites. The fact that you visit locations Conan Doyle himself knew adds authenticity and a sense of stepping into the past.
Reviews mention that the guide’s storytelling made the legends come alive, with one saying, “It was like walking through a living ghost story.” The scenery, with its stark beauty and eerie silence, complements the tales perfectly, making it a memorable experience for lovers of Gothic horror or nature.
The length of the tour, at 8 hours, is a good choice if you want to fully explore Dartmoor’s legend-filled landscape without rushing. Some might find it long, especially if you’re not used to outdoor walking, but it’s broken up with stops and a break in Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
- Dress for the outdoors; layers and sturdy shoes are vital since weather can change quickly.
- Bring some cash or card for lunch and souvenirs, as extras aren’t covered.
- Consider your comfort with walking; some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
- Check the availability and starting times in advance — they vary, and the tour runs only on specific days.
- If you’re a Sherlock Holmes fan, this tour will deepen your appreciation for the stories and Dartmoor’s influence on Gothic fiction.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who crave storytelling and landscape in equal measure. If you love history and legends, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you here. It’s particularly good for those who want a private, tailored experience and are comfortable with outdoor walking and variable weather.
It’s less suitable for very young children, those with mobility challenges, or anyone uninterested in walking or stories. The focus is on real sites, legends, and scenery—so come prepared to listen and explore.
Final Thoughts
The Dartmoor: Hound of the Baskervilles Experience offers a thoughtful and engaging way to connect with one of Britain’s most atmospheric landscapes. Combining scenic views with stories that have haunted the moor for centuries, it’s a chance to see Dartmoor through a lens of mystery and legend.
If you’re a fan of Gothic tales, Sherlock Holmes, or just beautiful, windswept landscapes with a dark twist, this tour is likely to satisfy. You get the benefit of private guiding, full-day immersion, and a story-rich itinerary that makes history and legend feel alive.
For those who want a meaningful, well-organized day exploring Dartmoor’s haunted and historic sites — and don’t mind a long day on your feet — this tour could be one of your highlights in the South West.
Dartmoor: Hound of the Baskervilles Experience
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, mainly due to the outdoor nature and the length of the day.
Can I bring wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as some locations involve walking on uneven terrain.
What should I wear?
Dress in outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes, as the weather on Dartmoor can be unpredictable and sites often involve walking on rough ground.
Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you can book options upon request. The tour does include complimentary bottled water in the vehicle.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 8 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and breaks.
What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll have a private guide from Experience South West Tours, who will tell stories, explain sites, and tailor the experience to your interests.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance costs at venues like National Trust sites or English Heritage locations are not included.
What are the pickup locations?
Pickup can be arranged from Torquay, Plymouth, Exeter, Newton Abbot, or Dartmoor itself.
Is this experience available year-round?
Check availability for specific dates, as scheduling can vary and weather might impact outdoor stops.
How much does it cost?
The entire private group—up to 6 people—pays $740.85, which can be a good deal for a personalized, full-day guided experience.
If you’re intrigued by Dartmoor’s dark stories and stunning vistas, this tour could be just what you need for an unforgettable day steeped in legend and scenery.
You can check availability for your dates here: