For Runners, Cyclists & Walkers
All of the below routes are interchangeable, with walking routes being suitable for runners, etc. We hope our active visitors enjoy reading all about how many wonderful sites there are to see on their travels!
Running Routes
Devon has some of the best scenic routes for running that will absolutely wow you. So be it on the moors or by the coastline, put on those running shoes & go discover one of these amazing routes.
There are routes here ranging from beginner to expert for all fitness levels.
Bideford to Great Torrington on Dartmoor
If you don’t mind driving to a really top destination then this one will take you across part of the Tarka Trail, along an old railway path. You won’t be on any roads on this route and it may feel a bit like a fun run as you cross bridges and journey under bridges.
Estimated length: 4.5 miles
Parke Estate Run in Bovey Tracey and Dartmoor
This is one where you can shorten the run to meet your needs but one thing for sure is that you will have stunning view on this route which will take you past the Dartmoor National Park Headquarters at National Trust Property Parke as well as Haytor Rock. Stop by House of Marbles for a well-earned coffee and cake when you’re finished.
Estimated length: 12 miles
The Princetown Run on Dartmoor
This is primarily a bike route but is also known to be good for running to because it is fairly straightforward. …One thing you won’t want to do is get lost on Dartmoor!
This definitely doesn’t mean it won’t be challenging though.
Estimated length: 12.5 miles
The Torbay Half Marathon Route (Paignton & Torquay)
If you regularly run long distances but Dartmoor isn’t for you then this could be a great option to take on as you will get to see all the best spots from Torquay Harbour round to Paignton Seafront. You can lengthen or shorten the route depending on need as the route sends you in a loop, most of which is along the same stretch.
Estimated length: 13 miles
Other useful sites for planning your run:
Dartmoor Runners
Dartmoor Running Holidays
Devon Life Magazine has also created a good runner’s guide of great routes in Devon which you can find here.
Cycling Routes
There are so many cycle routes on Dartmoor that we just don’t have the room to list them all here but here is a snapshot of the tops ones we think you’ll like the most, as well as some further links for planning your route.
Parke Estate near Bovey Tracey
A National Trust property which is also the Headquarters of Dartmoor National Park. Cycle along the old railway track which makes up the cycle path.
Stover Trail near Bovey Tracey
A well-known route which runs through Stover Country Park. Find more details here.
Tour of Britain Devon route
The Tour of Britain has been known to pass near to House of Marbles. Take a look at the Devon leg of the Tour of Britain route here to see if you would like to re-create part of the route on your own journey.
Other useful sites for planning your cycling trip:
Dartmoor Cycling
Visit South Devon
BoveyTracey.gov
Walking Routes
House of marbles is situated in Bovey Tracey which is referred to as the gateway to Dartmoor – and for good reason! From here there are many walks which will take you to some stunning spots in our landscape. Below are just a few of these.
Stover Country Park in Bovey Tracey
A local nature reserve with lots of wildlife. Be sure to pick up a map at the Nature Interpretation Centre so that you don’t miss anything. Great for walks with children.
Estimated walk length: 2 – 4.5 miles depending on the route.
…You can also lengthen your walk by going from Haytor, past House of Marbles, through Stover Country Park to Teignmouth along the Templar Way route – estimated length 18 miles.
Postbridge Clapper Bridge near Princetown
One of the oldest bridges in Britain and certainly one of the most famous bridges on Dartmoor, to reach this bridge alone will take you on a scenic route through the moors with lovely views. Thought to originate from the 12th Century. A lovely route can be found here.
Estimated walk length: 4.1 – 8.5 miles depending on route.
Bovey Valley Woods
This site has several sites, incorporating Pullabrook Woods, Houndtor and Hisley. There are lovely walking areas with bluebells at certain times of the year. Find a route for your walk here.
Estimated walk length: 2 miles
Wistman’s Woods & Longaford Tor
Wistman’s Wood is a beautiful moss and lichen covered wood. Weather can change quickly here as it is one of the few wooded areas so high, at about 1,300 feet above sea level, so clothing and footwear for all weather conditions is recommended. Take a look at the suggested walking route here.
Estimated walk length: 2.6 – 4.6 miles depending on route.
Ten Tors on Dartmoor
Ten Tors on Dartmoor
The Ten Tors is the most challenging walk on Dartmoor, attempted in groups as an organized event by the British Army in May, often in anticipation of The Duke of Edinburgh Award. The toughest routes are recommended for only the most experienced of walkers with supervision although there are easier routes which can be found here.
Estimated walk length: 7.8 – 55 miles depending on route.
Other useful sites for planning your walk:
Visit Dartmoor
Devon Wildlife Trust
GPS Routes
South Devon Area of Natural Beauty (AONB)
BoveyTracey.gov
Recognised Venue
We have been recognised by a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Awards in consecutive years from 2014 - 2019, and the new Traveller’s Choice Award in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023!
