Princetown sits at the very heart of Dartmoor National Park, surrounded by sweeping moorland and steeped in a history that’s unlike anywhere else on the moor. Much of the village’s story is intertwined with the famous — and sometimes infamous — Dartmoor Prison.
The prison was first built in the early 1800s to house French prisoners of war from the Napoleonic Wars. Its construction brought workers, families, and new opportunities to this remote part of Dartmoor, slowly shaping Princetown into the village we know today. Over time, the prison’s role changed: it later held criminal convicts, conscientious objectors during the Second World War, and even American and Canadian troops training for the D-Day landings.
While the prison’s presence had a profound influence on its early growth, Princetown has long evolved beyond its origins. Today it’s a welcoming hub for visitors, offering a perfect base for walking, cycling, and exploring the wild beauty of the national park.
The village is known for its characterful granite buildings, peaceful atmosphere, and superb access to some of Dartmoor’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re stopping for a bite to eat, browsing local shops, or simply soaking up the views, Princetown has plenty to enjoy.
A great place to begin your adventure is the Princetown Visitor Centre. Here you’ll find trail information, expert advice, exhibitions, and inspiration for days out across the moor. It’s an invaluable stop for anyone eager to learn more about Dartmoor’s wildlife, geology, and heritage.
With miles of open moorland, waymarked routes and wide-open skies on its doorstep, Princetown is the gateway to discovering Dartmoor’s natural beauty and rich history — whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a gentle stroll. Let your adventure start here.
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More about Princetown
Princetown is full of fascinating stories and unexpected quirks that make it a memorable stop on any Dartmoor adventure. Here are some interesting facts you may not know:
• One of the highest settlements in the UK
At around 436 metres (1,430 ft) above sea level, Princetown is one of the highest villages in southern England. Its elevated position gives it dramatic skies, wild weather, and far-reaching views across the moor.
• Home to the famous Dartmoor Railway heritage line
Princetown was once the terminus of its own branch railway, opened in 1883. Although the line closed in 1956, parts of the old trackbed now form a popular walking and cycling route with spectacular views.
• Sir Arthur Conan Doyle found inspiration here
The creator of Sherlock Holmes stayed in Princetown while writing The Hound of the Baskervilles. The surrounding moorland — with its misty tors, lonely mires and legends — helped inspire one of literature’s most iconic mysteries.
• Rich in myths and moorland folklore
From tales of spectral hounds to stories of pixies and ancient stone circles, Princetown is surrounded by places that feature in Dartmoor’s rich tapestry of legends.
• A haven for wildlife lovers
The moorland around Princetown is a fantastic place to spot Dartmoor ponies, skylarks, curlews, rare butterflies, and seasonal heather displays. In summer, the surrounding grasses come alive with dragonflies and colourful wildflowers.
• A stop for long-distance walkers and cyclists
Princetown sits close to several major routes, including the Two Moors Way, the Granite Way and the Princetown Railway Path. For many adventurers, it’s a natural rest point for refuelling and exploring.
• Gateway to some of Dartmoor’s most iconic tors
From Princetown you can easily reach South Hessary Tor, King’s Tor, and North Hessary Tor — home to the landmark TV mast that can be seen for miles around.