Dartmoor is a landscape that captivates with its rugged moorlands, ancient stone circles, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. It’s a place where every turn offers a new story, whether that’s the legend of the witches and wild ponies or the inspiration behind Conan Doyle’s Hound of the Baskervilles.
For those interested in history, literature, or outdoor adventure, Dartmoor offers tours that bring its wild beauty and deep roots to life.
Our favorites include a Sherlock Holmes-inspired adventure, an in-depth guided tour, and a hands-on hiking experience — each offering a different way to connect with this remarkable landscape.
While browsing, you’ll notice that Dartmoor’s unique appeal lies in its ability to combine natural beauty with stories of the past, whether through walking, driving, or storytelling. If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes or a lover of landscapes, our picks give you a well-rounded view of what makes Dartmoor special.
Quick Overview
This list covers three standout tours: the Dartmoor: Hound of the Baskervilles Experience, a full-day adventure immersing you in the spooky stories behind the novel (more details here); the Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour, a shorter, comprehensive exploration of the entire area (more details here); and the Dartmoor National Park: Half Day Guided Hiking Tour, which combines physical activity with storytelling and visits to ancient sites (more details here). Each offers a different way to experience Dartmoor’s wild spirit, history, and legends.
1. Dartmoor: Hound of the Baskervilles Experience
At number 1, this full-day tour is perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans or anyone interested in the darker stories that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. For around $740.85 per group (up to 6 people), you get an 8-hour guided journey through Dartmoor, focusing on the spooky legend of the Hound of the Baskervilles.
The tour starts from various pickup points like Torquay, Plymouth, Exeter, Newton Abbot, or right from Dartmoor National Park, making it flexible for travelers in southern England.
What makes this experience stand out is its combination of guided sightseeing and storytelling. You’ll visit iconic spots like Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Princetown, and Grimspound, while your guide shares the dark stories and real-life inspirations behind the novel. The stops at Holy Trinity Church and Dartmoor’s scenic drives deepen your appreciation of the landscape that fueled Doyle’s imagination.
The 2-hour scenic drive and 45-minute stops give plenty of time to soak in the barren beauty of Dartmoor’s wilderness. The tour ends with convenient drop-offs at multiple locations.
This tour is ideal for those who want an immersive, story-driven experience combined with scenic drives. The reviews praise its engaging narration and stunning vistas. However, because it’s a full-day adventure, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a long day and some walking.
Bottom Line: If you’re a mystery lover or want a comprehensive, story-rich day exploring Dartmoor’s sinister side, this tour delivers with a personal touch and memorable sites.
2. Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour
At number 2, this 3-hour guided tour offers a quick but thorough introduction to Dartmoor’s natural scenery and historic sites. Priced at about $81 per person, it’s a great option for travelers short on time or those who want a snapshot of what makes Dartmoor special. The tour explores prehistoric stone circles, old tin mines, and evidence of human occupation dating back to the Bronze Age.
The guide is well-versed in the area’s geology and social history, sharing insights into the landscape’s formation and how humans have interacted with it for thousands of years. The tour’s focus on geology and archaeology makes it especially appealing to those interested in the deep history of this landscape.
It’s perfect for families, history buffs, or travelers who prefer a guided experience but don’t want to commit a full day.
Because this tour covers a broad range of highlights in a short time, expect to see some of Dartmoor’s most iconic features without the long walks or drives of the full-day trips. The reviews note that it’s “an engaging way to get a sense of Dartmoor’s past and present,” and that the guide’s expertise helps bring the landscape to life.
Bottom Line: For a compact, informative overview of Dartmoor’s history and geology, this guided tour offers great value and a manageable schedule for a quick visit.
3. Dartmoor National Park: Half Day Guided Hiking Tour
Number 3 on our list is a 3-hour guided hike that immerses you directly in Dartmoor’s stunning landscapes and legendary sites.
Perfect for those who want a more active experience, this tour combines a walk with visits to Bronze Age stone circles, old tin mines, and tales of Dartmoor’s myths and legends. The tour costs vary depending on availability, but at 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews, it’s a well-loved option.
What makes this tour unique is its personalized approach — guides can tailor the walk to your interests, whether that’s focusing on ancient sites, wildlife, or the legends of the moor. Expect to climb tors, walk along rivers, and dip your feet in Dartmoor’s streams for a refreshing break.
The guide shares stories of the myths, including tales of witches and phantom ponies, adding a layer of cultural richness to the scenic walk.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits but still want a guided, informative experience. Its intimacy and flexibility make it ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking a more hands-on adventure. Some reviewers highlight how the guide’s local knowledge made the stories come alive.
Bottom Line: If you prefer stretching your legs and discovering Dartmoor’s archaeological sites firsthand, this guided hike offers a personalized, engaging way to connect with the landscape.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, schedule, and energy level. If you’re a Sherlock Holmes fanatic who wants a story-driven, full-day experience, the Dartmoor: Hound of the Baskervilles Experience is your best bet. For a quick but insightful overview of Dartmoor’s geological and historical significance, the Devon: Dartmoor National Park Guided Tour offers great value.
If outdoor adventure and exploring ancient sites firsthand are your priorities, the Half Day Guided Hiking Tour delivers a memorable, active experience.
Think about your budget—the full-day Sherlock Holmes tour is pricier but includes more immersive experiences, while the shorter tours are budget-friendly and perfect for tight schedules. Consider your fitness level and interest in history versus outdoor activities. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons like spring and summer.
Dartmoor offers a range of tours that cater to different styles — whether you want to walk through ancient stone circles, chase the legend of the Baskervilles, or simply enjoy the wild scenery. For a mystery lover, the Sherlock Holmes-inspired adventure is hard to beat.
For history buffs, the guided tour provides a quick but thorough introduction. And for those who want to stretch their legs and get a real feel for the landscape, the guided hike is ideal.
No matter your choice, Dartmoor’s wild beauty and stories are ready to enchant you. Book early, plan your day, and enjoy the rugged charm of one of England’s most fascinating landscapes.