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Dartmoor and West Devon

Dartmoor
A visit to Dartmoor will give you very special memories to cherish, whether you come for a spring or autumn break, or a longer holiday rambling, riding or relaxing.

Green fields, hemmed with hedgerows and drystone walls, rise above river gorges and wooded valleys. Above stretches the wild, open moor, grazed by Dartmoor ponies and Blackface sheep, its summits crowned with fantastic windhewn tors of granite.

Dartmoor is a living, working landscape haunted by the ghosts of the past - today's farmers tread in the steps of Bronze Age man, medieval monks and tinners. Come to Dartmoor and as you enjoy its beauty, heritage and culture you'll find yourself entranced.

Tavistock, an ancient stannary (tin-assaying and tin-marketing) town over 900 years old, makes a fine base for visiting Dartmoor. Explore its quaint streets and museum and the Benedictine Abbey ruins before venturing further afield. Alternatively, a traditional market town nestling in the northern foothills of Dartmoor, Okehampton, is a great place for the outdoor enthusiast.

Ruby Country
Some of Devon's most beautiful countryside lies around the traditional market towns of Holsworthy and Hatherleigh. This is Ruby Country, named after the local Ruby cows. Tranquil villages, winding lanes and rolling landscape make a wonderful base for cycling, rambling, horse riding and fishing.

Tamar Valley
West of Dartmoor lies the Tamar Valley, an area of breathtaking scenery and steeped in history, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Tamar Valley has a rich and varied wildlife, particularly the estuary, which is an important haven for birds such as the avocet and little egret.

In the Tamar Valley you'll find something for all tastes - great walking country, trips on river and train, delightful villages and local attractions. Its fascinating mining heritage, beautiful historic houses and glorious gardens make for a great mix. Then relax in a pub, cafe or restaurant where you can enjoy the delicious local food.

With plenty of accommodation to suit all purses, you'll find the Tamar Valley is ideal for holidays, short breaks and days out.

Further information:
Dartmoor Tourist Association - www.dartmoor.co.uk
Ruby Country - www.therubycountry.com
Tamar Valley - www.tamarvalleytourism.co.uk
Tamar Valley AONB - www.tamarvalley.org.uk

Tourist Information Centres:
Okehampton - 01837 53020 ; email ; website
Tavistock - 01822 612938, email
Holsworthy - 01409 254185 ; email ; website
Hatherleigh - website