Two Bridges for the moorland setting
Choose the hotel at Two Bridges when the countryside setting is part of the reason for staying. A meal and an unhurried return to the property can be the reward after one well-chosen outing.
Good for: Visitors who want the hotel and moorland setting to form one break.
Before you choose: Arrange arrival transport and meals in advance. A rural hotel address does not put every Dartmoor route outside the door or guarantee an evening bus home.
Tavistock for a western town base
Tavistock suits visitors who want market-town browsing and a local evening as well as time on Dartmoor. The Bedford provides a different setting from the interior hotel, with particular family and ground-floor layouts to enquire about.
Good for: Families and couples who want a town alternative to a rural evening.
Before you choose: Staying at the western edge means choosing outings around that side of the park. Do not plan each day from a county-wide list without checking the journey.
Choose the outing before the driving loop
The national park’s visitor centres at places such as Postbridge and Haytor can help you plan an appropriate visit. Select a route that matches experience, weather and daylight, with a shorter alternative.
Good for: First visits and mixed-ability groups.
Before you choose: A scenic road journey is not the same as a prepared walk. Check current route, access and any relevant range information rather than relying on a hotel’s general walking description.