15 Short Walks on Dartmoor South - Ivybridge and Princetown

Discover the untamed beauty of southern Dartmoor, where windswept tors, wooded valleys, bubbling rivers and historic villages combine to create a walker’s paradise.

This collection of 15 short walks around Ivybridge, Princetown and the surrounding moorland is designed to be completed in under three hours, offering circular routes that are perfect for families, weekend visitors, or anyone seeking memorable Dartmoor scenery without the commitment of a full-day hike.

• Walks range from 5 to 11 km (3 to 7 miles) and include detailed step-by-step instructions with 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey maps and GPX files, allowing you to confidently explore Dartmoor’s tors, lanes, rivers, and wooded paths
• Experience the region’s iconic landscapes, from the ancient oaks and mossy stones of Wistman’s Wood to the rugged tors of Great Staple Tor and Buckland Beacon, and the prehistoric stone rows and historic quarries of Drizzlecombe
• For each route, practical guidance covers parking, terrain notes, public transport options and nearby cafés or pubs, helping you plan enjoyable, stress-free half-day walks
• Explore Dartmoor’s heritage and natural highlights, including Princetown’s granite-built village, atmospheric quarries at Foggintor and Swelltor, and medieval settlement remains, combining scenic walking with cultural interest
• Many routes include flexible options to lengthen or shorten your walk, letting you tailor your adventure to the weather, your available time, or your energy levels

From windswept moorlands and hidden wooded valleys to riverside paths and ancient stone monuments, southern Dartmoor offers surprises on every short walk. With this Cicerone Short Walks guide in hand, you can explore the area with confidence, enjoying its dramatic landscapes, rich history and charming villages, whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or discovering new routes close to home.