Shepherd's huts with hot tubs in Bellever Forest

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.

• Bellever Forest is located in Dartmoor National Park, a 5-minute drive south of Postbridge. There are pay and display car parks (payment by card only) at Bellever village, by the entrance to the forest, and at Postbridge village, a 1-mile walk. 
• Both car parks have restrooms, but there are no other facilities, so bring everything you need with you. The closest village is Postbridge, home to a pub and a few small shops. 
• Some walking trails at Bellever Forest are accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
• Dartmoor has free-roaming ponies, sheep, and cattle, and these animals have right of way on moorland roads. There is a strict speed limit of 40 mph throughout. It is a fineable offence to feed any of the animals in the park, and visitors are also advised to keep a distance for their own safety—these are feral animals and may kick or bite.