Dartmoor National Park in Devon covers 350 square miles and is bordered by Torbay, Exeter and Plymouth. Newton Abbot, Bovey Tracey and Ashburton are also worthy of mention. Between here and Okehampton you will be hard pushed to find more than a handful of hamlets, but some stunning scenery. And as you pass the ruined mine head of Wheal Betsy, consider that this was once one of the most profitable, modern and philanthropic mines in the world, and all due to the presence of water power. Anyway, this is a good place to stop for walkers, riders, and cyclists, and has an excellent pub or two. On the northern edge of the National Park is Okehampton, a great centre for walkers and the start of the annual Ten Tors race. This is a two day 'yomp' across the moor for the young, the oldest participant allowed is only twenty, and takes place over three different courses, dependent on age. The longest route takes you over 55kms and you have to carry all your supplies and equipment, so there is no nipping into the Prison for a cosy night with the warders. The Army have a substantial training camp just outside the town on the moor and look after the 2400 teenagers who try this event every year. The town is basically grey, being made of the local granite, and has most of the local amenities you would expect in a small town anywhere else in England. There is a large ruined Norman Castle, a museum of Dartmoor Heritage, and a couple of shops that will kit out the novice or experienced walker. A range of Devon holiday cottages, pubs, restaurants, and cafes completes the picture. To the north the green and rolling hills and cottages in north Devon, to the south, the bleak and granite-strewn moor land. Now this is not to say that there is nothing to do on Dartmoor as you can try walking from one side to the other, or go by pony. Challenge the elements with your camping prowess, but be prepared the weather can change here just as quickly as it can in the Scottish Highlands. You can visit Neolithic cairns and stone circles, secluded country houses, castles and nature reserves; see hidden waterfalls, or even try and find the famous Prison. This is the only wilderness in England so if you bump into anyone else you will be unlucky. Haytor is a tract of moor and heathland. The distinctive granite tor is common land and has long been an attraction to visitors. Dartmoor National Park was immortalised recently in Warhorse, the Hollywood blockbuster filmed on location on Dartmoor. The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust's charitable mission is to preserve the indigenous famous Dartmoor Pony; unfortunately this tough breed is at serious risk, the herd is numbering less than 300 mares. Buckfast Abbey founded in the 11th century, in Buckfastleigh from where The South Devon Railway operates a heritage steam railway to Totnes running alongside the River Dart. Widecombe Fair, well known in the folk song of the same name featuring Uncle Tom Cobley (and all!) is famously held on the 2nd Tuesday in September, attracting thousands of visitors to the tiny Dartmoor village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
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