Chapter 2
Rugged, Wild and Moor

Time to explore more of Agatha Christie’s Devon, today we venture together to Dartmoor National Park, discovering myths and legends along the way. Heading initially to the lovely town of Ashburton, the gateway to the moors, let us introduce stories of some very famous inhabitants and some surprising literary connections …

2 Guests ask for price for additional guests

7 Days a Week: 9am to 5pm

Full Day Excursion

From £375

Details & Itinerary

Our journey will continue onto the breathtaking landscape that is Dartmoor, an area the size of London but with less than 40000 inhabitants. Lunch may include a wonderful English pub or a picnic on the moors (depending on our British weather!). There’s a Bronze Age village to visit and wild and rugged Haytor – enjoying far reaching views to both Lyme and Tor Bay. Look out for the famous Dartmoor Wild Ponies and understand how this famous place became the inspiration for other world-renowned authors such as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. We really hope the hounds from the Sherlock Holmes stories won’t appear tonight…

Our final stop will be a must see visit to Lustleigh – Devon’s most photographed village. Here, our guided walk begins at the 13th century church continuing through woodland, across babbling streams and passing the village cricket pitch. You will see “chocolate box” thatched cottages and the gorgeous Primrose Tea Rooms – and of course, here is the opportunity for a traditional Devon Cream Tea. We are often asked to combine Dartmoor for morning only and then onto Burgh Island. We can do this, please just ask details.

Pricing
  • Price from £375 up to two people 
  • Please enquire for additional guests 
  • Includes transport and Miss Lemon.
  • Refreshments and meals not included
Schedule
Collection from your accommodation is suggested at 8:45am and return around 5pm. The schedule varies for this excursion as Dartmoor has very different weather! But it is a full day out and full itinerary will be communicated a few days before your trip. There is just so much we want to pack into the trip!
What You Should Bring
It is important you allow for the changing weather on Dartmoor, sometimes you can have all four seasons in a day. Good walking shoes, warm, layered clothing and hats are essential for this trip, along with your water bottle. Walking poles are helpful and can be provided. It can be very windy on Dartmoor, so a neck buff is always a great idea.
Best Times for This Excursion
We love Dartmoor and we will travel whatever the weather! Depending on the time of year, we may adjust timings to include a sunrise or sunset as these can be particularly spectacular on this stunning setting. Autumn is probably Miss Lemon’s favourite, but this unique landscape is truly inspiring all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can you collect me from an airport or railway station?

Yes absolutely, in fact we would love to do so, as it gives us chance to get to know each other before our wonderful custom days out.

Do you mix groups of travellers?

No, this is very much a private tour, custom made and tailored for single or duo travellers. We want you to write your own travel story and so exclusivity is really important to us.

Can I bring a dog?

Well behaved dogs are welcome on walks, but unfortunately, we can’t transport them in our own vehicle. Some venues and attractions also do not allow dogs (other than guide dogs), so please do chat to us before booking with English Riviera Custom Tours.

Can you arrange my accommodation?

While we ask you to book directly, we are very happy to offer guidance and suggestions using our extensive local knowledge. We also work closely with some providers and ask you mention English Riviera Custom Tours at the time of booking, to ensure you receive any preferential rates.

Can I book all year round?

Absolutely! The English Riviera has a mild climate and benefits from some of the best weather anywhere in the UK. There are some attractions and venues that operate with more opening times through the high season, but we are an all year round destination and welcome guests throughout the year.

I am thinking of hiring a car, can you help me with that?

We can certainly provide information for local car hire.

Do I need special walking clothes and equipment?

While we say no, obviously we ask you to consider your footwear for our lovely walks. The English Riviera coastline is stunning and every opportunity to see crystal clear waters and our rich geological landscape cannot be missed. So comfortable and appropriate clothing is essential. We can provide walking poles if needed. The Dartmoor chapter is probably the most important to consider layers of clothing, as it can change so quickly on the rugged moors.

Do I need to be a very good walker?

For most of our walks, no. We consider all the practical elements (including toilet stops) and terrain and so will assess your booked tours in advance for you. Some of the coastal walks have some undulating terrain and so a reasonable level of walking ability is needed. If you are unsure before choosing your custom tour, please ask.

I am driving to the area, what are the roads like and the parking?

Devon has more roads than any other UK county ( fun fact!) and while we have plenty of great major roads, some of our country roads can be a little challenging for first time users. Reversing skills need to be honed! Greenway House only allows prebooked parking – but all other attractions here on the English Riviera have good parking facilities. But do not worry, Miss Lemon will ensure you have all the info you require for each adventure.

What’s the weather like?

Well everyone knows we British are obsessed with the weather, so Miss Lemon will keep you updated on whether you need your suncream or your winter woollies, so do not fear! After all, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!

I’ve heard of wild swimming, what is it?

Really it is just a posh name for sea swimming, but we do take it very seriously here on the English Riviera. Both Miss Lemons are seasoned all year round swimmers and so are very safety conscious and aware of the power of the sea. But if you’d like to give it a go, we suggest a sunrise swim for the most perfect start to the day. Let us custom make your day and maybe add a swim every morning – you might just love it!

I would love to find some great eateries, can you help me with this?

Definitely! We are happy to make bookings and recommendations and have some really great places to eat on the English Riviera. There really is something for everyone and we might even share some of our best kept secrets!

Have you got a question we haven’t thought of? Please drop us a note and ask us, Miss Lemon is here to take care of your every need.

Interested in this tour? If you would like to book or need more information, please get in touch with us below.

Contact Miss Lemon