Dartmoor and Hay Tor Devon

Dartmoor and Hay Tor, Devon

Dartmoor seen through clouds, Devon

A view of Dartmoor and Hay Tor with dramatic clouds taken from Teignmouth.

An ancient stone circle on Dartmoor.

Dartmoor Ponies grazing in front of Hay Tor on Dartmoor

Access – Getting There

The beauty spot is just south of the B8837. It is 8 miles northwest of the town of Newton Abbot. From Exeter, it is 16 miles southwest on the A38.

If you wish to stay nearby there are several options. These include the recommended, 3-star Ilsington Country House Hotel & Spa with 10 acres of private grounds.

Access – Getting to Dartmoor

Dartmoor can be easily reached from the M5 motorway in Devon via the A30 or the A38. Journey times from both Exeter and Plymouth to the moor is about 30 minutes by car.

If using public transport there are buses from Exeter to Newton Abbot and from there into Dartmoor. From Totnes, the Stagecoach Gold bus connects to Ivybridge or South Brent. The Dartmoor Explorer service is one bus a day from Exeter and Plymouth across Dartmoor in both directions. Its main stops are at Dunsford, Moretonhampstead, the Warren House Inn, Postbridge, Princetown, Tavistock, Yelverton and Plymouth.

In addition, a daily train service between Okehampton and Exeter was recommenced in 2021.

There are several places to stay on the moor in hotels, inns, B&Bs, and guesthouses. Some recommendations include the Bedford Hotel, the Tavistock House Hotel, or the Two Bridges Hotel. The Lydgate House Hotel is another fine accommodation.

See a listing of accommodation options in Dartmoor.