Family-Friendly Dartmoor Hike: Burrator Reservoir to Princetown Circular

Event Description:

Join us for a free group hike for parents and kids on one of Dartmoor’s most scenic and beginner-friendly routes! We all know kids can get bored and moan about tired legs on long walks so lets join forces so they can make friends and enjoy themselves and the grown ups can do the same!

We’ll walk the Burrator Reservoir to Princetown circular route (approx. 7.9 miles) — a gentle path following the old railway line with beautiful moorland views, peaceful woodland sections, and plenty of space for kids to explore safely.

This relaxed, social hike is perfect for families looking to spend a day outdoors together.

📍 Route Overview

• Start & Finish: Burrator Reservoir Quarry Car Park (PL20 6PE)

• Distance: ~7.9 miles (optional shortcuts available)

• Duration: Around 2.5–3 hours walking time — we’ll allow extra time for breaks and exploring

• Difficulty: Easy / Beginner-friendly

• Terrain: Mostly flat or gently sloping paths along the old railway line, with some uneven ground typical of Dartmoor

Highlights

• Peaceful walk through open moorland and woodland

• Great views towards Princetown and surrounding tors

• Optional detours to explore tors or Foggintor Quarry

• Family atmosphere – suitable for kids aged 7+ who are comfortable walking several miles

🗓 When & Where

• Date: Sunday 16th November

• Time: Meet at 9.45am. Depart by 10:00 am.

• Meeting Point: Burrator Reservoir Quarry Car Park (look for the group near the entrance sign)

Please arrive a few minutes early so we can set off together.

🥾 What to Bring

• Sturdy walking shoes or boots

• Waterproof jacket (Dartmoor weather can change quickly!)

• Snacks, water, and a packed lunch

• Optional: hot drink in a flask, binoculars, and a sense of adventure

👧 Family Notes

• Recommended for children aged 7 and up due to distance.

• We’ll keep a steady, child-friendly pace with rest stops.

• Parents are responsible for their own children at all times.

• Dogs on leads are welcome!

🗺 Route Variations & Shortcuts

If you’d like a shorter option, you can:

• Start further along near Sharp Tor to join the railway path later, or

• Take the Foggintor Quarry shortcut (turn right after the bridge near Burrator) to skip Swell and King’s Tors, saving around 30–40 minutes.

These flexible options make the walk perfect for all comfort levels.

✅ Good to Know

• Public toilets available near Burrator Reservoir car park.

• Free parking at the Quarry Car Park (arrive early to guarantee a space).

• The route may be muddy in parts — wear suitable footwear.

• This is an informal, community-organized walk; everyone joins at their own risk.

🎟 Cost

Free – just bring your enthusiasm and walking shoes!
Please register your spot on Eventbrite so we know how many families to expect. Only adults need a ticket.

Contact

For questions or last-minute updates, message Jo through Eventbrite.

Incase of bad weather, the hike will be rearranged for an alternative date.