Dartmoor - Haytor
14 miles from Exeter • Various routes from 2-10km (7.5 mile Haytor-Hound Tor circular)
Haytor is one of Dartmoor's most iconic landmarks - dramatic granite tors rising from open moorland with breathtaking views. The Haytor Visitor Centre offers convenient parking, toilets, and a gift shop with trail maps. Great starting point for walks from the beginner-friendly Haytor Rocks circular to the challenging 7.5-mile Hound Tor loop.
© Alan Hunt, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Moderate
Various routes from 2-10km (7.5 mile Haytor-Hound Tor circular)
Yes
Pay and display (reasonable prices)
Overview
Haytor is one of Dartmoor's most iconic landmarks - dramatic granite tors rising from open moorland with breathtaking views. The Haytor Visitor Centre offers convenient parking, toilets, and a gift shop with trail maps. Great starting point for walks from the beginner-friendly Haytor Rocks circular to the challenging 7.5-mile Hound Tor loop.
What to Expect
Open moorland stretching in all directions, dramatic rock formations to explore, and a real sense of wilderness. The striking twin outcrops are protected as an area of geological interest. The Templer Way follows abandoned granite rails of the old tramway to the deep pools of Haytor Quarries. You'll encounter free-roaming ponies and sheep.
Best For
- ✓Adventure-loving dogs
- ✓Dogs with excellent recall
- ✓Long moorland hikes
- ✓Escaping to wilderness
- ✓Geology enthusiasts (old quarries)
- ✓Combining with Hound Tor
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Dogs who chase livestock
- ⚠Dogs without good recall around ponies
- ⚠Those wanting flat easy walks
- ⚠Dogs with joint problems (rough terrain)
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Wild ponies and sheep roam freely - dogs must be under control
- ⚠Weather changes quickly - bring waterproofs
- ⚠Easy to get lost in mist - stick to paths or use GPS
- ⚠Adders present in summer - keep dogs on paths
- ⚠Some areas have old mine shafts - stick to marked paths
Local Tips from Evie
Arrive early to get parking on sunny weekends. From Saddle Tor car park, follow the north-easterly path to Haytor Rocks. The 7.5-mile Haytor to Hound Tor circular includes varied terrain with quarries, woodland trails and fascinating geology. Always carry water for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs go off-lead at Haytor?
Dogs can be off-lead on open moorland but should be kept on lead around livestock. Wild ponies and grazing sheep roam freely - follow Dartmoor National Park guidelines for responsible dog walking.
Where do I park for Haytor?
Main car park at Haytor Visitor Centre (lower car park), 3 miles west of Bovey Tracey. Toilets and gift shop with trail maps available. Additional car parks along the main road if full.
How far is the walk to Haytor Rocks?
From the car park to the Tor is about 1/2 mile on a short, slightly steep grassy path. The Haytor-Hound Tor circular is 7.5 miles.
Practical Information
Haytor Visitor Centre, Haytor Vale
TQ13 9XT
Main car park at Haytor Visitor Centre (lower car park), 3 miles west of Bovey Tracey. Ample parking with biggest car parks around the Visitor Centre. Additional car parks further up and down the main road if full. Also Saddle Tor car park (2 miles from Widecombe).
Dogs can be off-lead across open moorland but must be kept on lead due to wild ponies and grazing animals. Follow Dartmoor National Park Authority guidelines - keep under close control near livestock.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Dartmoor - Haytor regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
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