Best New Year walks to try across Dartmoor’s rugged landscape

Dartmoor’s granite tors, wide moorland views and ancient woodland make it one of the most atmospheric places in the South West for a New Year walk. 

The open landscape changes character dramatically in winter, offering clear, crisp mornings on good days and windswept drama on others. 

Whatever the weather, these routes remain reliable choices for anyone looking to start the year outdoors.

Haytor and Hound Tor

Haytor is one of Dartmoor’s most recognisable landmarks and a popular starting point for both short strolls and longer rambles. 

The path to the top is steep in places but manageable for most walkers, rewarding them with panoramic views across the moor and towards the coast. 

A circular route between Haytor and Hound Tor adds variety, taking in granite outcrops, grazing ponies and the long lines of the disused granite tramway. 

It’s an excellent introduction to Dartmoor for those who want a straightforward but scenic walk.

Bellever Forest and Bellever Tor

For a sheltered option, Bellever Forest offers quiet tracks through pine woodland, ideal during unsettled winter weather. 

Walkers can follow the forest paths up to Bellever Tor for sweeping views across the central moor. 

The area is rich in history, with Bronze Age hut circles and ancient stone rows dotted through the trees. 

Families often choose this route for its mix of woodland and open moorland, and the paths remain accessible even during wetter spells.

Postbridge and the East Dart River

Postbridge is best known for its clapper bridge, but the area also offers peaceful riverside routes along the East Dart. 

These paths provide a gentler alternative to the steeper tors, making them suitable for slower-paced walks. 

Winter brings a stillness to the valley, with the sound of flowing water carrying through the cold air. 

The landscape here is rich in wildlife, and the open views are especially clear at this time of year.

Burrator Reservoir

One of Dartmoor’s most popular all-ability walks, Burrator Reservoir offers a complete contrast to the open moor. 

The circular path around the water is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for families, cyclists and anyone wanting a straightforward New Year route. 

The woods surrounding the reservoir remain green through the winter, and the reflections on the water are striking on bright days. 

It’s also a good option during cold snaps, as the sheltered tracks are less exposed to strong winds.

Stop off for a pint afterwards at the dog friendly Burrator Inn.

Great Mis Tor and the Walkham Valley

For a more challenging start to the year, Great Mis Tor provides a dramatic route across open moorland.

The climb is steady but rewarding, with far-reaching views across the northern moor from the summit. 

Walkers can extend the trip into the Walkham Valley, where the river winds between steep sides and granite boulders. 

This route requires good footwear and care in poor visibility, but on a clear winter’s day it is one of Dartmoor’s most impressive landscapes.

Dartmoor’s combination of big skies, open ridges and sheltered valleys gives walkers plenty of choice throughout the winter.