Dartmoor National Park, on the outskirts of Plymouth, has always been a popular nature photo hotspot in the South West of England. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Plymouth and you can easily throw yourself into the arms of nature.
💡Recommended Route:
It is generally recommended to start from Princetown, which has easy parking facilities and a visitor service center, and then walk along the Two Bridges, with plenty of open fields and ancient boulders along the way, especially suitable for searching for wild mushrooms in autumn and winter, keeping an eye on grassland and undergrowth along the way. The whole route takes about 2-3 hours and can be adjusted freely.
✨Must-play items:
1. Look for wild mushrooms: Dartmoor is a famous hotspot for wild mushroom distribution in the UK, most prosperous in autumn, remember to only enjoy or take pictures, do not randomly pick unknown varieties.
2. Take pictures of the misty wilderness and strange rocks: the most iconic ones are Haytor Rock, Wistman's Wood Mysterious Forest, recommended to visit.
3. Wildlife viewing: There are opportunities to see wild horses, sheep and various birds on the way.
📸 Must-visit check-in spot:
- Haytor Rock: High terrain offers distant views of the valley, excellent photography.
- Wistman’s Wood: South West England’s oldest moss forest with a mysterious atmosphere.
- Postbridge Ancient stone bridge: full of history, beautiful scenery all around.
🔖 Itinerary Tips:
1. Waterproof hiking shoes are highly recommended, some sections are muddy.
2. With heavy fog in autumn and winter, plan your route in advance to avoid getting lost by downloading the official map of Dartmoor National Park.
3. There are many kinds of wild mushrooms, do not know if you do not forage, safety is paramount.
4. If driving, it is recommended to leave in the morning, the visibility in the mountains is poor in the evening.
5. The weather in the mountains is changeable, remember to bring a jacket and simple dry food.
⚠️ Notes:
- Find parking in advance during peak seasons (special weekends and school holidays).
- Uncovered mountainous areas, easy to get wet in rain or heavy fog, equipment must be complete.
- Nature conservation site, all garbage must be taken away, do not destroy the environment.
The Dartmoor National Park itinerary is really comfortable, with fresh air, looking at the varied landscapes, wildlife and mysterious forests, plus stunning wilderness photo spots, perfect for a short day trip or weekend relaxation. If you want to breathe some real nature, a departure from Plymouth to Dartmoor is definitely worth putting on the itinerary!
Topic:
#PlymouthOutdoors #DartmoorExploration #WildMushrooms #NatureWalking #UK Trekking