Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park

Dartmoor National Park is a protected area in South West England, covering an area of 368 square miles (954 square kilometers). It was established in 1951 to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the region.

Geographically, Dartmoor is a rugged upland area consisting mainly of granite and covered in heather, grasses, and peat bogs. It has numerous tors (rocky outcrops) and is crisscrossed by rivers and streams. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including birds, otters, badgers, and ponies, which are free-roaming on the moor.

Dartmoor has a rich and fascinating history. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and there are numerous prehistoric sites to be found, including standing stones, stone circles, and ancient settlements. During the Middle Ages, Dartmoor was used for farming and mining, and many of the old mining ruins and buildings can still be seen today. Dartmoor was also used as a training ground for the military, and during World War II, it was a key location for commando training.

Interesting facts about Dartmoor National Park include:

• Dartmoor has the highest concentration of archaeological remains in Western Europe.
• The park is home to the famous Dartmoor ponies, which have been living on the moor for thousands of years.
• The famous Sherlock Holmes novel "The Hound of the Baskervilles" was set on Dartmoor.
• The park has inspired many artists and writers, including the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge and the novelist Agatha Christie.
• Dartmoor was used as a location for the popular television series "War Horse" and the movie "The War of the Worlds."