Dartmoor National Park is one of England’s most captivating landscapes, offering a mix of ancient stone circles, rugged tors, and stories that stretch back to prehistoric times. What makes Dartmoor particularly special for tours is its blend of natural beauty and rich archaeological sites. If you enjoy walking through history, you’ll love exploring Bronze Age stone circles or climbing tors that have stood for thousands of years. We’re especially fond of the Dartmoor National Park: Half Day Guided Hiking Tour, which combines scenic hiking with storytelling about local legends. It’s a perfect way to experience Dartmoor’s wild side while learning about its myths and legends.
In this list, we focus on two well-regarded tours that offer different ways to experience Dartmoor. Whether you prefer a deep dive into the region’s social and geological history or an active outdoor adventure, there’s something here for you. Both tours provide expert guides and a solid value for the price, making them ideal options for anyone wanting an authentic taste of this rugged landscape.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, with insights into what makes them unique and suitable for different types of travelers.
1. Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour
At number 1, the Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the area in just three hours. This guided experience is perfect if you want to quickly grasp Dartmoor’s geology, social history, and natural beauty. The tour covers ancient landscapes that date back to the Bronze Age, showcasing features like stone circles, ancient pathways, and evidence of human occupation from prehistoric times to today. The guide is well-versed in the area’s social history, sharing stories of old tin mines, local legends, and how the landscape shaped communities over centuries.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to bring the landscape and social history to life in a short time. The guide’s storytelling makes the ancient sites more meaningful, sparking curiosity about how people lived and worked here millennia ago. It’s suitable for travelers with limited time but a keen interest in history and geology. The price of $81 per person makes it a good value for a rich, guided overview.
Guests have praised the tour for its engaging storytelling and insightful commentary, often mentioning how it enhanced their understanding of Dartmoor’s landscape. The tour’s quick pace and depth make it ideal for first-timers or those with a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: If you want an efficient, educational introduction to Dartmoor’s landscape and history, this guided tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. Dartmoor National Park: Half Day Guided Hiking Tour
For around 3 hours, the Dartmoor National Park: Half Day Guided Hiking Tour takes you on a more active exploration of Dartmoor. This tour stands out for its focus on walking through stunning scenery while uncovering Bronze Age stone circles, old tin mines, and hearing about the myths and legends that surround Dartmoor’s tors. The guide is knowledgeable, sharing stories that make the landscape come alive, whether it’s about ancient rituals or local folklore.
What makes this tour unique is its personalized approach and ability to be tailored to your interests. Whether you want to climb the tors for panoramic views or dip your feet into the rivers, this tour can adapt. Guests love the interactive experience—climbing rocky outcrops and exploring old mining sites—making it perfect for active travelers who want a more immersive experience.
Rated 4.8/5, the reviews highlight the engaging guide and beautiful scenery. The tour is an excellent value for those seeking a moderate hike combined with storytelling. It’s especially suitable for outdoor lovers who want to see more than just the surface of Dartmoor’s landscape. One reviewer said, “Climbing the tors and walking along the ancient paths made me feel like I was part of Dartmoor’s history.”
Bottom Line: This guided hiking tour combines physical activity with storytelling, making it ideal for those who want a hands-on experience of Dartmoor’s natural and cultural highlights.
How to Choose the Right Dartmoor Tour for You
When deciding between these tours, consider your interest level, your fitness, and the kind of experience you want. If you’re short on time and prefer a rundown of Dartmoor’s social and geological features, the guided tour here is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for history buffs or travelers with limited days.
If you’re more interested in active exploration and want to climb tors and explore ancient sites firsthand, then the half-day guided hiking offers a more intimate, tailored experience. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy walking and want to see the landscape up close.
Think about the season too—Dartmoor’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack suitable clothes and consider booking in advance during peak months. Both tours are wheelchair accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, but the hiking tour involves some uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts
Dartmoor offers a range of excellent guided tours that suit different interests and schedules. The Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour is ideal for those wanting a quick, educational fix, while the Half Day Guided Hiking Tour appeals to active travelers eager for a more immersive experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise—Dartmoor’s popularity means spots can fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. These tours are a smart way to truly understand and appreciate Dartmoor’s rugged beauty, ancient monuments, and stories that continue to shape the landscape today.