Home > Explore South Devon > Dartmoor > Safety on Dartmoor

Listen using ReadSpeaker

Safety on Dartmoor

Tips for Walkers on Dartmoor

Dartmoor is a truly remote area, and suffers from a generally poor mobile phone signal - this is both an advantage for getting away from it all, and a disadvatage if you need help. Unlikely though it is that you will find yourself in difficulties, you can reduce the risk even further if you take a few simple precautions...

Weather

The temperature on the higher moors is usually 2ºC lower than it is at the coast. The weather on the moor is also very localised and changeable. If you plan anything longer than a short stroll, check the weather forecast.

Be prepared

Always carry a 1:25000 map and a compass, warm clothing and a waterproof jacket, and make sure your footwear is fit for purpose. Take water with you and food if you plan to be out for some time.

Be aware

The made up tracks are often easy going, if a little stony sometimes. Away from these, the terrain varies greatly from very comfortable close cropped sheep-grazed grass, to thick tussocks of marsh grass and bog, which can be very energy zapping to cross.

The army on the moor

There are three practice ranges on the moor - all in the northern part of the National Park, outside of the South Devon area, but it is as well to note any military activity if you plan to travel northwards. Check with Dartmoor Ranges if you have any doubts.

For more information visit Dartmoor National Park Authority.