Two Moors Way
Explore the Scenic Beauty of Two Moors Way: A Diverse Hike Across Britain's Heart
Stretching across the picturesque landscapes of South West England, Two Moors Way offers hikers a captivating journey through a diverse blend of terrains. This 188-kilometer point-to-point trail weaves its way from the rugged expanse of Dartmoor to the lush valleys and rolling hills of Exmoor. As you traverse this historic path, you'll encounter breathtaking views of forests, grasslands, and ancient moorlands, each teeming with a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. The hike is a splendid mix of secluded paths and quaint villages, promising an immersive journey through the heart of Britain's natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the mysterious allure of mist-covered moors or the tranquility of wooded glades, Two Moors Way promises an unforgettable adventure, combining moderate challenges with the serene beauty of the English countryside.
Route Overview
The Two Moors Way is a long-distance hiking trail running approximately 117 miles (188 kilometers) from Wembury on the south Devon coast to Lynmouth on the north coast of Exmoor, Somerset. Starting at Wembury, walkers traverse a diverse route that crosses two of south-west England’s iconic moors: Dartmoor and Exmoor. The path leads north from Wembury, passing through locations such as Ivybridge, Holne, Postbridge, Chagford, and Drewsteignton before reaching the mid-Devon town of Morchard Bishop. From there, it continues through Witheridge, Knowstone, and Hawkridge, ultimately entering Exmoor National Park, with the route culminating on the dramatic coastline at Lynmouth.
Most hikers tackle the route in eight to twelve days, depending on pace and overnight stops. The path is a mixture of recognised footpaths, bridleways, quiet lanes, river valleys, open moorland, and farmland, providing ever-changing trail conditions. Walkers should expect challenging sections across upland moors, potentially boggy ground in places, and exposed areas, particularly on Dartmoor and Exmoor, where weather can change rapidly. Lower sections may take you through patchwork farmland, quaint villages, and woodland, offering more sheltered walking and well-maintained paths.
Waymarking along the Two Moors Way is generally good, but navigation skills are recommended, especially in misty or poor weather conditions typical of the moors. Accommodation options are available in the towns and villages en route, but some remote sections require forward planning for overnight stays. Hikers should be prepared for variable weather, rough terrain underfoot, and potentially long stretches between services in rural parts of the route. The Two Moors Way is suitable for well-prepared and experienced walkers seeking a classic British long-distance trail.
A Journey Through Time
The Two Moors Way holds a deep historical resonance, tracing paths that have been in use for centuries. It navigates through regions once bustling with ancient trading routes, where merchants and locals moved goods across these moody, dramatic landscapes. Dartmoor and Exmoor's storied past is marked by their role during the Bronze Age, evident in prehistoric remnants such as cairns, stone circles, and ancient settlements scattered throughout the area. These moors were once lands of ancient communities known for their stunning megalithic structures and remnants of past civilizations. The pathway also traverses areas that played significant roles during medieval times, with the remnants of old tin mining industries still visible in places, narrating tales of economic prosperity and decline. As hikers walk the Two Moors Way, they are literally stepping through layers of history, accompanied by the echoes of those who walked long before them.
Notable highlights
Haytor Rocks: These towering granite formations are a striking feature of Dartmoor, offering panoramic views across the moorland. They are not only a delight for rock climbers but also provide a picturesque backdrop for photographers capturing the rugged beauty of the moors.
Meldon Reservoir: Nestled in a dramatic valley on the northern edge of Dartmoor, this serene spot offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a perfect place for a peaceful pause, surrounded by the mellow tones of the Devon landscape.
Exmoor Ponies: As you traverse the rolling hills of Exmoor, look out for these iconic native ponies. Wild and roaming freely, they are emblematic of the moorland, adding a dynamic touch to the lush green scenery.
Withypool Stone Circle: Just east of Withypool village, this prehistoric stone circle is an archaeological gem, hinting at the moor's ancient past. It's a place steeped in mystery and offers an intriguing insight into the lives of its early inhabitants.
Tarr Steps: This ancient clapper bridge in Exmoor is a mesmerizing piece of megalithic engineering. Made of massive stones, it is believed to date back to the Bronze Age and serves as a captivating historical landmark nestled in a woodland setting.
Challenges to expect
Hiking the Two Moors Way presents several challenges that adventurers should consider preparing for. The trail navigates through diverse terrains, including dirt and rocky paths that can become particularly muddy after rain, making some sections slippery and difficult to traverse. The moorland sections can be exposed to sudden weather changes, with strong winds and unexpected showers being common, particularly across Dartmoor and Exmoor's higher elevations. These conditions not only demand adequate clothing but also preparedness in terms of navigation, as the pathway can be obscured by fog or poor visibility. The remoteness of certain segments along the trail means reliable water sources can be sparse, requiring careful planning for water supplies. Although the route is generally moderate, sections with steep climbs and unpredictable weather require a good level of fitness and experience in hiking under variable conditions. Wildlife is generally benign, but hikers should remain respectful and cautious around local species like Exmoor ponies.
United Kingdom 
England - Mountainous
- Forest
- Grassland
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Muddy
- Guesthouses
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Wild camping spots
- Hotels
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly On Leash
- Restrooms
- Potable Water Sources
- Established Campsites
- Shelters
- Picnic Areas
Your journey begins at Wembury on the south Devon coast, starting with scenic coastal walking before heading inland through rolling countryside and farmland. You’ll pass through the villages of Brixton and Yealmpton, navigating quiet country lanes and wooded sections. The day concludes with a gradual ascent towards Ivybridge, the gateway to Dartmoor National Park.
From Ivybridge, the route enters Dartmoor proper, traversing open moorland with wide views and remote landscapes. The path skirts the edges of tors and follows old tracks across the high ground near Harford and Pupers Hill. After passing along the River Dart valley, hikers finally descend into the picturesque moorland village of Holne.
Setting out from Holne, the route continues through the heart of central Dartmoor. The path passes through Buckfastleigh Moor, the enchanting valley of Dartmeet, and onto Widecombe-in-the-Moor. After tackling more moorland paths and several river crossings, you’ll end the day in the historic town of Chagford, nestled on the northeastern edge of Dartmoor.
Leaving Dartmoor behind, the trail follows riverside paths and lanes, meandering through rural villages such as Hittisleigh and Colebrooke. Farmland predominates, with undulating hills and occasional wooded patches. The section concludes in Morchard Bishop, a traditional mid-Devon rural community.
This stage travels further into the Devon heartlands, navigating quiet country lanes, patchwork fields, and sections of woodland. You’ll head through villages such as Black Dog and Washford Pyne, with generally gentle gradients throughout the day. Arriving in Witheridge offers a well-earned rest in another small rural village.
Continuing north, this moderate section leads you through scenic farmland, quiet tracks, and small hamlets. The landscape gradually becomes hillier and more exposed as you near the edge of Exmoor National Park. Knowstone marks the transition between the rolling Devon countryside and the approach to moorland farther north.
From Knowstone, the route climbs onto the southern fringes of Exmoor, entering more open moorland terrain with extensive views. You’ll pass through the tiny settlement of Hawkridge, navigating the high ground and descending into the village of Withypool, located beside the River Barle.
The final stage follows the River Barle north into the heart of Exmoor, crossing wild moorland and wooded valleys. After passing the historic Tarr Steps and ascending onto high open ground, the route makes a dramatic descent through the lush East Lyn Valley, finishing at the picturesque seaside town of Lynmouth on the Exmoor coast.