Things to Do on Dartmoor

There is always lots going on at Pennywell. Treat your family to the very best with a full day of hands on animal action at Pennywell Farm. Home of the half hourly activity and with up to 20 hands on activities, shows and displays every day, all included in the admission price, you won’t waste a single minute. There’s something new every half hour – listen for the bell!

Cycle Hire is now available at Fox Tor Cafe, only £18.50 per adult per day, with the bonus of being able to get a hot drink (or something stronger) and a meal when you return from your bracing cycle!

Dartmoor Zoo is the zoo that the Hollywood film starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johannson is based upon. in 33 acres of beautiful woodland with some stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a fantastic collection of animals, Dartmoor Zoo is a unique family day out in the beautiful South Hams of Devon. Immerse yourself in a fun day out with the kids: see the big cats feed, hear the wolves howl and feel the snakes wriggle through your fingers in Close Encounters. Follow the daily timetable of events including public talks at feeding times and animal encounters, with falconry displays and kids activities during the holidays such as quiz-trails and face-painting. And when you need a rest, visit the Jaguar Restaurant for a freshly prepared lunch or a hot drink and delicious cake made right here on site.

A great place for young children with activities such as feeding the animals, pony grooming, collecting the eggs, pony rides, putting the donkeys to bed at the end of the afternoon, and the pets corner is a delight for children of all ages. Kids love the play area, ride on tractors, and the playpark with it's climbing wall. Cafe with good food too. Visit our discount vouchers page for a discount of £1.50 per person

An enchanting garden nestled in the beautiful Torridge Valley. Surrounded by woodland, the garden is rich in variety throughout every season and features inspiring planting displays enhanced by the natural beauty of North Devon.

The National Trust property Castle Drogo is at Drewsteignton where the Gardens are open all year. Do see the gardens in the Autumn when they are full of rich colour. There is an interesting seed collection day each year, when the Castle gardeners explain how to do just that later on in the year. You need to bring envelopes! Find the date on my what's on page. There is a brilliant cafe at the reception. Read my food review about it.

Open this year from 23rd May to early September, this is the largest outdoor, freshwater swimming pool in Devon. The temperature of the water is maintained with solar pool covers. It is just 10 minutes walk from Chagford town centre and a few minutes drive from the A30. There is a small tea hut with snacks and Lifeguards always in attendance. There is a special pool for babies and young children and all children under 9 MUST be accompanied by an adult. Please be sure to check the pool's website for admission fees and opening times.

Enjoy Two 235m Zip Wires with Views over Dartmoor National Park. Go Ape’s first Tree Top Adventure in the South West. One of the best days out in Devon, if you’re looking for adventure activities near Exeter then you’ll enjoy an incredible 235m zip wire flying you from hilltop to hilltop followed by another (…just 15 minutes from Exeter)!

Owned and run by local expert Alex Graeme, Unique Devon Tours organises fascinating and entertaining holidays for small groups. Whether your interests lie in the landscapes and legends of Dartmoor, the Cathedral and Roman history of Exeter, famous characters such as Dame Agatha Christie and Sir Francis Drake, beautiful beaches, cream teas, glorious gardens and evocative castles or steam trains and river boats, Alex can tailormake a tour that can truly offer something for everyone.