Haytor is arguably one of the best places to visit in Dartmoor, a must-see for anyone visiting this wonderful region. Full of striking natural beauty, archaeological history and a starting point for many amazing trails, it’s a great way to make the most of any trip to Dartmoor.
This guide will help you get the most out of your visit to Haytor, whether you’re just ticking it off your list or want to dig deeper and discover why this region has become so popular.
Where is Haytor?
Haytor – also known as Hay Tor – is a striking natural monument that can be found in South East Dartmoor. There are roads that take you to the area, although it’s an uphill walk to reach the rocks for which this location is so famous.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get here is to drive to the National Park Visitor Centre at Haytor (TQ13 9XT), which is just three miles outside of Bovey Tracey. There is also a seasonal bus service – the Haytor Hoppa – that runs on Saturdays.
Parking at Haytor
As one of Dartmoor’s most popular tors, there is ample parking at Haytor. The biggest car parks are around the Visitor Centre, but if these are full, there are other car parks further up and down the main road, so you shouldn’t struggle to find a space.
The History of Haytor
Haytor is a geological marvel dating back millions of years. It’s arguably the best and most famous example of Dartmoor’s tors, great hills often topped with granite outcrops that date back to prehistoric times.
Beyond its geology, Haytor is famous for its evidence of human life. With everything from ancient burial cairns to the remains of an old industrial tramway, Haytor tells a story of human development and progression.
Nowadays, as part of protected natural lands, Haytor is a beautiful wilderness teeming with butterflies, flowers and more.
Things to See & Do at Haytor
- Walk up to the top of Haytor and enjoy panoramic views across Dartmoor.
- Enjoy the dozens of mapped walks around Haytor and the surrounding areas of Dartmoor.
- Visit the National Park Visitor Centre nearby for more information on walks and the local history.
- Explore local landmarks, including the Granite Tramway and nearby Hound Tor rocks.
- Look out for rare birds that call the area home.
Facilities at Haytor
As one of Dartmoor’s most popular locations, the facilities at Haytor are better than at many other tors across the region.
The Visitor Centre is open daily during the main tourist seasons and is still open most days during the winter. There are also toilets attached to the Visitor Centre.
Ample parking around the Visitor Centre includes dedicated EV charging spaces.
How Accessible is Haytor?
Even though this is natural land, Haytor is fairly accessible. There are disabled toilets at Haytor’s Visitor Centre, where many walking routes start.
If you have an impairment and want to enjoy Haytor, you may be interested in the Miles Without Stiles route, which starts at the Visitor Centre and features gentle uphills that are suitable for most scooters and buggies. Those with manual chairs may require support.
Are Dogs Allowed at Haytor?
As with most areas in the region, dogs are welcome at Haytor. However, take care to respect the rules for dogs on Dartmoor to ensure they don’t cause problems for the local wildlife.
Generally, you’re expected to keep your dog under close control when using public paths and keep them on a lead whenever there are animals in the vicinity. There are different seasonal and location-based rules – such as dogs needing to be on a short lead during nesting seasons – so it’s best to keep an eye out for signs and adhere to local rules when you arrive.
Popular Walks at Haytor
Countless walks encompass Haytor and the surrounding area, meaning there’s something to suit all abilities and interests. We’d recommend visiting the Visitor Centre, where you can buy maps to help you around, but here is a taste of what you can expect.
- Haytor Rocks to Hound Tor Circular: A fairly easy 2.5-hour walk encompassing both Haytor and the popular Hound Tor nearby.
- Haytor Rocks to Yarner Wood Circular: A slightly more challenging 9km walk encompassing many of Haytor’s landmarks as well as nearby Yarner Wood.
- Miles Without Stiles: A simple 2km walk around Haytor Quarry with a gentle incline, suitable for scooters and buggies.
- Granite Tramway: A 4km walk around the historic tramline, a quieter walk slightly off the main tor.
Cycling at Haytor
Haytor is a fantastic location for road cycling, with the main road regularly used in national cycling tours and competitions. Various routes allow you to travel past Haytor and through the wonderful scenic landscapes nearby, including some historic villages with cafes and bars if you want to rest.
Whether you want a scenic ride through the countryside or want to push yourself through long climbs and strong headwinds, Haytor is a great starting point for your road cycling.
Wildlife to Spot at Haytor
Haytor has plenty to offer for nature lovers. As with much of Dartmoor, many animals and birds are living in these protected lands. Here are just some of the things you might spot:
- Rare fritillary butterflies.
- Many types of bird, including ravens, Dartford warblers, buzzards and more.
- Lizards, particularly on Haytor’s sun-covered rocks.
- Free-roaming ponies.
In late spring and early summer, areas around Haytor can also become awash with wildflowers, such as bluebells, which can make for some magical vistas.
Haytor is somewhere you can return to time and time again and keep discovering new secrets, whether it’s lesser-trodden paths, rare animals or a simply stunning view.
If you are staying with us and want to make the most of Haytor and other locations, just speak to our team; we’re happy to share some of our local secrets.