Hello- we are going to be driving through England and have 2 nights in Dartmoor. Rick Steves guide suggests staying in Chagford so we are considering 2 nights at the Globe Inn in Chagford- however, we are also seeing some quaint cottages near Widecombe-in-Moor and Buckfastleigh areas and wonder if anyone has any insights on what we might enjoy more? Just looking to relax, hike, visit some pubs, and enjoy the scenery. Our son will be with his grandparents in the US so we'd prefer somewhere with WiFi or decent cell service in case of an emergency with him which is one concern we have about the tinier villages- thoughts?
Posted by
Yorkshire
1276 posts
Hi Ellie -
Myself, my wife and a couple of friends walked the Two Moors Way last year, crossing part of Dartmoor and one of our overnight stops was at Widecombe-in-the-Moor. I would suggest that this is a great place to stay if visiting Dartmoor, surrounded as it is by Tors. The walk up onto the Hameldown ridge which we followed into Widecombe is well worth doing in fine weather but I would suggest there are plenty of other walks (mostly, if not all, involving climbs out of the village!). Our route also took us close to Chagford which seems perfectly pleasant although I'm not sure it's as well situated for the remoter moorland. We did note however that Chagford does have a beautiful lido (public outdoor swimming pool), but I think the weather I the UK would to have to be at its absolute warmest and sunniest for this to be of interest. As I type it's snowing heavily outside, although I am a long way north of Chagford!
Have a great trip, wherever you decide to stay!
Ian