Dartmoor, on the south west tip of Great Britain, is a vast area of gorse and heather, granite rocks and ancient stone rows, sometimes known as “the Last Wilderness”. Ponies, sheep and cattle graze the quiet hillsides; busy streams and fast flowing rivers carve their way through the rugged, rock—strewn landscape. It is a National Park and therefore a place of peace and tranquillity. However, visitors are welcome to come and enjoy the natural beauty and the opportunities for walking, driving, cycling and visiting historic sites and towns.

There are many ancient granite farmsteads and charming villages nestling among Dartmoor’s hills and valleys. On the eastern fringe of the moor lies Lustleigh, one of the most picturesque villages in the National Park. Winding country lanes lead to the thirteenth century church of St John the Baptist which overlooks the Village Green and its cluster of thatched cottages. A shop, a Post Office, a tea room and a fifteenth century pub make this the heart of the village. There are many lovely walks around the village itself and to the nearby ancient Manor of Wreyland where there are yet more delightful thatched cottages with wisteria-draped walls and pretty English cottage gardens.

The famous Lustleigh Cleave attracts walkers to the paths along its lofty ridge with spectacular views to the moor and surrounding countryside; or through the shady valley bottom where the dippers skim over the clear waters of the river Bovey and rare butterflies are spotted on the wooded slopes.

Longer walks will take you to the other well-known beauty spots such as Yarner Woods, Becka Falls, Haytor Rocks and Widecombe-in-the-Moor.