Property in Dartmoor: Prime Country Living in a Timeless Landscape
Property in Dartmoor offers a rare opportunity to live in one of the UK’s most striking natural settings.
Stretching across 368 square miles in Devon, this National Park is a land of granite tors, sweeping heather moorland, and ancient woodland threaded by fast-flowing rivers. It feels wonderfully remote, yet remains well connected to Exeter, Plymouth, and the south coast.
For those seeking space, privacy, and a deep connection to nature without losing touch with modern conveniences, property in Dartmoor provides an exceptional way of life.
A lifestyle rooted in nature
Living on Dartmoor is defined by its landscape. Vast open moorland invites year-round walking, riding, and cycling. Miles of bridleways and quiet lanes make it ideal for equestrian pursuits, while the rivers Dart and Teign offer opportunities for wild swimming and fishing.
Seasonal changes are dramatic, with misty autumn mornings giving way to crisp winter days and wildflower-rich spring meadows.
For those who love the outdoors, Dartmoor is both a playground and a sanctuary, making property in Dartmoor particularly appealing to those seeking nature at their doorstep.
Dartmoor’s food and drink scene
Dartmoor has a flourishing food culture. Farmers’ markets in towns such as Chagford and Tavistock supply outstanding local produce, from grass-fed beef to artisan cheeses and seasonal vegetables.
Independent farm shops and bakeries are commonplace, making it easy to cook with the finest ingredients.
Dining out is equally rewarding. Gidleigh Park near Chagford, with its Michelin-starred reputation, remains a destination for gourmet dining. Across the moor, acclaimed pubs and restaurants blend local ingredients with modern flair.
Whether enjoying a refined tasting menu or a relaxed pint by an open fire, the quality is consistently high; another reason property in Dartmoor is so highly valued by those who enjoy exceptional food and wine.
Culture and community
Despite its wildness, Dartmoor has a lively cultural life. Historic market towns host galleries, music festivals, and craft fairs, while smaller villages maintain traditions through local shows and community events.
The area’s rich history, from prehistoric stone circles to medieval longhouses, adds depth and character to everyday life.
Whether it is the camaraderie of a village pub, participation in local conservation projects, or involvement in equestrian circles, residents can find their own balance of solitude and society.
Prime locations to call home
Dartmoor’s appeal lies not only in its landscapes but also in its distinctive towns and villages, each with its own character and variety of property types.
Chagford and surroundings
Widely regarded as one of the most sought-after small towns in the South West, Chagford blends history with sophistication. Elegant period houses line its streets alongside converted barns and discreet contemporary country homes.
Its independent shops, cafés, and cultural events create a vibrant atmosphere. With its heritage architecture and beautiful setting, Chagford is a natural focus for homebuyers looking for property in Dartmoor.
Lustleigh
On the eastern edge of the moor, Lustleigh is frequently admired for its picture-perfect setting. Granite cottages and thatched houses cluster around the village green, with narrow lanes winding into wooded hillsides.
A traditional pub, village store, and tearoom keep everyday essentials close at hand.
The village sits beside Lustleigh Cleave, a steep wooded valley carved by the River Bovey, offering scenic walking routes. Many homes here enjoy views across the trees and hillsides, giving a sense of seclusion while still being within easy reach of Bovey Tracey, the A38, and Newton Abbot’s mainline rail services.
Widecombe-in-the-Moor and Central Dartmoor
At the heart of the moor, Widecombe-in-the-Moor embodies the classic Dartmoor village. Granite cottages, stone farmhouses, and substantial moorland estates offer seclusion and panoramic views.
Here, life feels immersed in the wilderness yet remains within easy reach of Ashburton and the A38 for practical needs. For those looking for dramatic scenery and quiet living, the central moor is unmatched.
South Moor: Ashburton and Buckfastleigh
To the south, Ashburton and Buckfastleigh combine country living with excellent connectivity. The A38 provides swift access to Exeter and Plymouth, while nearby Newton Abbot offers mainline rail links to London.
The property market ranges from Georgian townhouses to converted barns and larger rural estates. These towns suit buyers who want a vibrant base with easy travel and proximity to the south Devon coast.
Western Edges: Tavistock and Brentor
On the western fringe, Tavistock offers historic architecture, good schools, and a thriving market town ambience. Period townhouses, elegant villas, and fine country houses on the outskirts are in demand.
Nearby Brentor is known for its striking views and strong sense of privacy, with properties that enjoy remarkable panoramas across the surrounding countryside.
Distinctive properties and market
Property in Dartmoor is as individual as its landscape. Traditional granite houses and thatched cottages sit alongside manor houses with acreage, many steeped in centuries of history.
For those seeking something contemporary, architect-designed eco-homes and sensitive barn conversions provide modern comfort without compromising the setting.
The prime property market here often reflects a demand for space, seclusion, and authenticity. Homes with land remain particularly appealing.
There is sustained interest from buyers relocating from London and the South East, alongside international clients seeking a tranquil base in the UK.
Connections and accessibility
While Dartmoor feels wonderfully secluded, it remains well connected. Depending on the starting point and road conditions, many parts of the moor are within 30–60 minutes’ drive of Exeter or Plymouth.
From Exeter or Newton Abbot, journey times to London Paddington can be just over two hours on the fastest services. Exeter Airport offers regular flights to major UK and European destinations, making international travel straightforward.
The south Devon coast is within easy reach for sailing, beaches, and watersports.
This balance of remoteness and accessibility is part of Dartmoor’s enduring appeal: residents enjoy complete immersion in nature without sacrificing convenience, a combination that further enhances the desirability of property in Dartmoor.
Living the Dartmoor life
Choosing Dartmoor as a place to live is about embracing a rare combination of natural beauty and refined living. It is waking to vast skies and ancient landscapes, shopping for artisan produce in lively market towns, and dining at some of the country’s most acclaimed restaurants.
For those in search of a prime country property, Dartmoor offers an array of opportunities.
It is a landscape of timeless appeal where privacy, space, and natural drama meet the comforts and connections of modern life.
How Garrington can help
Finding the perfect property in Dartmoor can be complex, with the most desirable homes often changing hands privately or before reaching the open market. Garrington’s local knowledge and national reach give clients an important advantage.
Our team specialises in sourcing and acquiring prime property, offering guidance throughout the entire process to ensure a smooth and successful move.
If you are considering buying a property in Dartmoor, we would be delighted to help you find your ideal home. Contact Garrington to begin your search and benefit from expert guidance every step of the way.
