Dartmoor is a place of wild beauty and mystery. Its rugged landscapes, granite tors, and rolling moorlands have captivated visitors for generations. Beyond its stunning natural scenery, Dartmoor is also home to a plethora of weird and wonderful places that add to its allure. In this article, we will explore the top ten of these unique and enchanting locations.
Hound Tor
This striking granite tor, with its distinctive stack of weathered rocks, has inspired countless myths and legends. It's said to be the home of the "Hound of Dartmoor," a phantom dog that haunts the moors.
Wistman's Wood
Hidden deep within the moors lies Wistman's Wood, a tangled forest of stunted oak trees covered in mosses and lichens. With its eerie atmosphere and ancient legends of ghosts and druids, it's a place that feels otherworldly. This National Nature Reserve of 170ha mainly consists of a model example of the upland heathland and has a wealth of moorland birds. Wistman’s Wood is in the Dart River valley. Natural England is asking visitors to stick to the paths and to walk around Wistman’s Woods and not to go through it to protect the extremely rare and fragile habitat.
Grimspound
This well-preserved Bronze Age settlement consists of a circle of stone walls that once housed a community of ancient people. Walking through these ruins is like stepping back in time, with the moorland as a timeless backdrop.
Bellever Forest and Clapper Bridge
Alongside the East Dart River and the woodlands of Bellever Forest, you'll find an ancient clapper bridge made of granite slabs. It's a picturesque spot where history and nature intertwine, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Jay's Grave
A solitary grave marked with a granite cross, Jay's Grave is shrouded in mystery. According to local folklore, it belongs to a young girl named Jay who died tragically, but her true identity and story remain enigmatic.
Foggintor Quarry
Once a bustling granite quarry, Foggintor Quarry now lies abandoned, filled with crystal-clear waters. The eerie sight of submerged buildings and rusting machinery adds an eerie charm to this place.
Crazywell Pool
Nestled in a desolate valley, Crazywell Pool is a mysterious lake with a reputation for strange happenings. Some believe it's bottomless, while others claim it's haunted, adding to its enigmatic allure.
Bowerman's Nose
A peculiar rock formation, Bowerman's Nose resembles the profile of a hunched figure. Folklore tells of a huntsman named Bowerman who was turned to stone for his wickedness, leaving this eerie monument.
Great Mis Tor
Rising dramatically from the moors, Great Mis Tor offers panoramic views of Dartmoor's wild landscape. It's a favourite spot for hikers and photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Huccaby Ring
An ancient stone circle hidden away in the moors; Huccaby Ring is lesser known but no less fascinating. Visiting this quiet and remote site feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of Dartmoor's history.
Dartmoor’s weird and wonderful places are a testament to its rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re an adventurer, nature lover, or simply curious about the mysteries of the moors, these unique locations are sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire a sense of wonder for the remarkable world of Dartmoor.
You might also be interested in our Dartmoor Folklore Trail and Map – myths-and-legends