This Dartmoor forest has wild ponies, woodland walks, and moorland views.
Tree-lined trails lie along the banks of the East Dart River in Bellever Forest at the centre of Dartmoor National Park. Enjoy short walks through the woodlands, stop for a picnic by the riverside, then climb up to Bellever Tor for magnificent views across the moors. Seasoned hikers can set out along the 11-mile Lich Way from Bellever, and wildlife lovers will be in their element—the forest is a popular grazing spot for the park’s free-roaming herds of Dartmoor ponies. Camping is not permitted within the forest, but campers will find plenty of options throughout the national park.
Summer, especially July and August, is peak season in Dartmoor National Park and popular spots such as Bellever Forest can get crowded—get there early to snag a picnic bench. Forest walks are enjoyable at any time of year, but autumn is particularly beautiful, with its rainbow of fall foliage. Dartmoor weather is notoriously changeable, so bring your raincoat and something warm, even in summer.