Dartmoor National Park is a stunning location for photography enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of landscapes and natural beauty. Whether you want to take stunning landscape shots or close-up snaps of the local wildlife, there are plenty of opportunities for capturing an incredible photo on Dartmoor.
Here are some of the best photography locations on Dartmoor:
Haytor Rocks
One of the most iconic landmarks on Dartmoor, Haytor Rocks provides excellent opportunities for both sunrise and sunset photography. The granite rock formations against the changing sky create dramatic and captivating scenes.
Foggintor Quarry
This abandoned quarry offers unique photo opportunities with its rugged landscape and reflective pools. The industrial remnants combined with the natural surroundings make for interesting compositions.
Wistman’s Wood
This ancient oak woodland is mystical and enchanting. The moss-covered trees and unique rock formations create an otherworldly atmosphere, making it a great location for capturing magical and atmospheric shots. It’s especially enchanting in misty conditions.
Burrator Reservoir
The reservoir and its surrounding woodlands provide picturesque scenes, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. Reflections of the surrounding hills and trees in the calm waters make for beautiful compositions. It’s particularly beautiful during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant colours – this is a place to head if you want shots with gorgeous orange leaves.
Black-a-Tor Copse
This ancient woodland is a haven for wildlife and a great location for capturing the beauty of nature. Bluebells in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn provide excellent opportunities for seasonal photography. The twisted, ancient trees make for fascinating subjects, especially in moody weather conditions.
Bellever Forest
This forested area ranges from dense woodlands to open moorland, providing a diverse array of photography opportunities, from capturing the sunlight filtering through the trees to photographing the Bellever Tor against the forest backdrop. Bellever is home to interesting wildlife, from Dartmoor ponies to butterflies and bees, offering plenty of nature photography options. The Bellever Tor nearby provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Dartmeet
This is where the East and West Dart Rivers meet, and it’s a popular spot for photographers. The convergence of the rivers, along with the ancient clapper bridge and the backdrop of rolling hills, creates picturesque scenes. It’s a great spot for long-exposure photography and capturing the flow of water.
Becky Falls
Located on the eastern edge of Dartmoor, Becky Falls is a series of picturesque waterfalls surrounded by lush woodland. It’s a great spot for capturing the beauty of cascading water against the natural rocks and greenery.
Image Credit: Nigel Cox under CC BY-SA 2.0
Great Staple Tor
This tor offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an excellent spot for both sunrise and sunset photography, providing a dramatic backdrop with its rocky outcrops.
Image Credit: Nilfanion under CC BY-SA 3.0
Ditsworthy Warren House
A Grade II Listed house near Sheepstor, this isolated house was used as a filming location in the 2010 Steven Spielberg film War Horse. This remote farmhouse sits amongst dramatic landscapes, making it a great subject for photos or a unique backdrop for you to pose in front of.
Image Credit: Richard Johns under CC BY-SA 2.0
Dartmoor’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes and bring appropriate gear to protect your camera equipment.
If you want to use Dartmoor as the backdrop for your photos, then why not stay with us at Mill End Hotel in Chagford? Not only are we the perfect base for your adventures across the moors, but we’re also located in a stunning spot, with interesting walks on our doorstep perfect for getting incredible snaps!