Attractions and Places To See around Ashburton - Top 20

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit Haytor Rocks, which offers vistas across the moorland and, on a clear day, extends to the coast. Hound Tor also provides magnificent views over Dartmoor from its distinctive granite formations. Another excellent spot is Bellever Tor, known for its big views in all directions and impressive granite rock formations.

Yes, you can explore the fascinating industrial past of Dartmoor at Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies, a disused quarry that now features beautiful water lilies. Another unique spot is the Lichen Grove Stone Bridge, offering a magical change of scenery with its trees and river, perfect for a tranquil walk.

Ashburton is a gateway to numerous hiking trails within Dartmoor National Park. Popular routes include loops around Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, as well as trails leading to Bellever Tor. You can find detailed routes and difficulty levels in the Hiking around Ashburton guide.

Absolutely. The area around Ashburton offers diverse cycling experiences, from challenging mountain biking trails to scenic road cycling routes. You can explore the River Dart loop or tackle more demanding routes like the Combestone Tor loop. For more options, check out the Cycling around Ashburton and Road Cycling Routes around Ashburton guides.

Ashburton, an ancient stannary town, boasts several historical sites. You can visit the 12th-century St Andrew's Church, the historic St Lawrence Chapel (now a community center), and the Ashburton Town Hall. The Ashburton Museum offers insights into the town's rich past. Additionally, the Haytor Quarry Pond area also features evidence of ancient human habitation, including Bronze Age hut circles.

Yes, Ashburton has a vibrant cultural scene. The Ashburton Arts Centre, located in a former Methodist chapel, regularly hosts concerts, theatre, comedy, and workshops. The town is also well-known for its numerous antique and vintage shops, offering unique browsing and shopping experiences.

Many natural attractions are suitable for families. Haytor Rocks and Bellever Tor are both considered family-friendly, with Bellever Tor even having paths suitable for pushchairs to its base. For a dedicated adventure, the River Dart Country Park offers a variety of activities set in woodlands.

The natural attractions around Ashburton, particularly those on Dartmoor, can be enjoyed year-round. For pleasant hiking and cycling conditions, late spring to early autumn (May to September) is ideal. Visiting Haytor Rocks in the late afternoon towards evening is recommended for stunning sunsets and stargazing, often with fewer crowds.

Visitors frequently praise the magnificent views from the granite tors like Haytor Rocks, Hound Tor, and Bellever Tor. The unique rock formations are popular for climbing and photography, and the sense of vastness and natural beauty of Dartmoor is often highlighted. The mystical atmosphere of places like Lichen Grove Stone Bridge is also a favorite.

Yes, the River Dart flows nearby, and its scenic sections, such as around Holne Bridge, are popular for kayaking and canoeing. The Lichen Grove Stone Bridge crosses a beautiful stream, offering a tranquil riverside experience. Additionally, the Ashburton Outdoor Swimming Pool is open from May to September for recreational swimming.

Ashburton town itself has a selection of cafes and pubs. When exploring Dartmoor, you'll find various establishments in nearby villages. Some cycling routes, like the 'Rafikis Café – Viewpoint at Hockmoor Head loop', specifically highlight cafes along the way, providing convenient stops for refreshments.

The granite formations, known as tors, are iconic to Dartmoor. They are not only natural monuments like Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor, but also reveal the region's industrial past. The granite from quarries like Haytor Quarry was historically transported via a tramway, playing a significant role in local industry.