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Dartmoor Holiday Cottages

Dartmoor is situated in central Devon and is the largest area of open country in southern England. Its landscape consists of desolate moors and valleys, punctuated by dense woodlands. The region covers almost 400 square miles and is protected by the National Park Authority. Scroll down for Dartmoor holiday cottages.

The windswept terrain occasionally rises up to form granite hilltops called Tors. Two of the most notable are Yes Tor and High Willhays, both of which stand at over 2000ft. Many prehistoric ruins remain, including forts and hut circles. During the middles ages Dartmoor was mined for tin and copper - a practice that can be traced to the four towns of Tavistock, Chagford, Ashburton and Plympton. The moor is now predominantly used for farming.

Dartmeet, with its clapper bridge is one of the better known beauty spots and is where the East and West Dart Rivers meet. Other places of interest include North Bovey and its stone houses as well as the ancient market town of Okehampton. Buckland-in-the-Moor is also noteworthy and has thatched cottages, set against heavy woods - it is one of the most photographed corners of England.

Dartmoor's countryside also provides some interesting landmarks including the granite rock-pile Combestone Tor and Buckland Abbey. Although rainfall is heavy, Dartmoor offers a rugged desolate beauty that is without match anywhere else in South England. See below for information about self catering holidays in Dartmoor.

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Dartmoor self catering attractions and amenities

This section includes more information about the major visitor attractions, amenities and outdoor activities in and around Dartmoor. We've provided links and details regarding admission prices and entry times.

Outdoor Activities
Dartmoor Railway is a popular attractions and runs for 15 miles from Crediton to Okehampton, taking in some inspiring Devonshire scenery such as Okehampton Castle and the Meldon Viaduct. It's open at weekends and fares are between £1.25 for children and £5.75 for adults.

The award-winning Pennywell Farm is also worth a mention and houses a variety of animals such as eagles, owls, reindeer and goats. There's also a selection of slides and a go-kart track. Admission prices range from £7.95 to £9.95 and entry hours are 10am to 5pm, seven days a week. Visitors may also enjoy the Miniature Pony Centre which is home to around 150 animals including Shetland ponies and donkeys. Entry prices are between £5 and £7.

Fingle Bridge Inn

Food and drink
The Royal Oak Inn, situated in Meavy, is a traditional country pub that dates back to the 15th century. Its interior features flag-stone floors, heavy oak beams and an open-fire place. They serve a selection of local cask ales, such as Dartmoor IPA and offer a good wine list. Food is also served seven days a week. The idyllically located Fingle Bridge Inn, in Drewsteignton, is also worth a visit and offers a popular Sunday Carvery as well as the usual selection of local ales and beers.

The outstanding Gidleigh Park restaurant in Chagford is renowned for its modern European cuisine which holds 4 AA rosettes. Set in picturesque gardens, this top eatery serves imaginative, vibrant dishes made from local ingredients. Alternatively, try the Agaric in Ashburton which has an ever-changing a la carte menu that consists of contemporary British food. Dishes are unpretentious and affordable.

History and Culture
The award-winning Morwellham Quay is located near Tavistock and celebrates the region's industrial past with miner's cottages and a narrow-gauge railway that travels underground. Entry is free and it's open from 10am to 5pm. There's also Okehampton Castle, which is the largest of its kind in Devon and dates from the 14th century. A number of facilities surround the site such as picnic areas and snack bars - admission is free.

The Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton is also a popular historical attraction and celebrates bygone times by exhibiting local artifacts - visitors have the chance to mint their own coins. There's also museum gift shop and tea rooms. Opening times are Monday to Saturday, 10.15am to 4.30pm.