Picnic spots are in abundance on the moors - you can literally choose anywhere whilst enjoying the very best of everything the Dartmoor National Park has to offer. We realise this can be quite an overwhelming decision to make, so here are some of our recommended picnic spots on Dartmoor.

Reservoirs 

Fernworthy Reservoir

Fernworthy is a drinking water supply that feeds the areas of Torquay, Totnes and Brixham. Not only does Fernworthy boast a rich abundance of wildlife, archaeology and areas to stroll, it has an official perfectly located picnic area overlooking the lake itself. The views across the reservoir to the forest and Thornworth Tor are truly stunning. 

Avon Dam

This popular picnic spot is a pleasant walk or cycle from Shipley Bridge car park. Although there are picnic spots on the bank of the River Avon and along the Avon Dam Reservoir Valley, we recommend heading up to the dam for a spot with an unbeatable view.

Tors

Haytor

Probably Dartmoor’s most popular Tor… Haytor is the perfect picnic spot with flat rocks for seating and stunning views across the moor and of the South Devon coastline. With easy parking, plenty of hiking routes and fantastic views, what’s not to love?

If you want to really ‘work’ for your picnic, climb the Tor or hike to nearby Hound Tor and back and you will have really worked up an appetite!

Bellever Tor

Bellever Forest near Postbridge is a beautiful place for a walk. Keep strolling all the way up to Bellever Tor and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful tranquil setting and stunning panoramic views across the moors.

Rivers

Spitchwick

Wild swimming, picnicking, walking, Spitchwick offers it all. This large, grassy area runs along a bend in the River Dart, popular with families having picnics and wild swimming throughout the summer months. This stunning area is accessible from Ashburton, South Devon and beyond. 

Dartmeet

Dartmeet is a famous beauty spot, where east and west branches of the River Dart meet in a steep, wooded valley. Many families choose to gather by the stone clapper bridge, where the kids can play on the stream in the rocks whilst adults set up picnic on the grass. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy some riverside views. 

Nearby is the magical garden of Pixieland, the renowned home of the Dartmoor Pixie. Within the Flora and fauna, you will find many gnomes and pixies busy doing their daily chores and activities. There’s even a gift shop where you can pick up your own pixie or gnome for your garden!

A Devon picnic isn't complete without some delicious local Devonshire foods... Check out the varied range of picnic perfect hampers which you can order online now from Devon Heaven Hampers.

Looking for hotels in Dartmoor? Check out some of the finest countryside stays in Devon.