Dartmoor - Devon: Has Something For Everyone To Enjoy The Region

The Hounds of Baskerville is one of Sherlock Holmes most mysterious novels and that is partly because the frighteningly eerie setting from the moors of Dartmoor - Devon, England. This moorland is part of Dartmoor National Park which is an expanse of the true wilderness of this nation. With unusual and surprising weather patterns that can change in a blink of an eye it is unknown and interesting topography that covers hundreds of miles.

The Dartmoor National Park has lots of paths for hiking. Along the way you can see prehistoric remains and Dartmoor Prison which is in the heart of the park. This prison was built in 1806 to house the prisoners taken from the Napoleonic Wars. It then served to hold the rebel American prisoners from the War of 1812 being considered one severe prison. Still in use today it has mellowed throughout time and now only low risk prisoners are housed here.

Wishing to enjoy the beautiful landscape by hiking through it is a terrific way to see the moors. But you can also spend time at Lyford Gorge which is the home of White Lady Waterfall. This paradise holds hikes that wind you through the gorge while exposing you to lush plants, animals and bird.

This land is home to a native animal that has been running through the hills for over a thousand years. The Dartmoor ponies are powerful, strong and sweet tempered animals that not only were perfect for work but for the little ones of the Devon area. They have become endangered so see them soon.

Water was used to run mills and foundries of old. But at the Finch Foundry it is still doing so. With three large water wheels still active you can see the power that they create and how they utilized this power to manufacture hundreds of tools a day when this foundry was at their peak.

A castle that was created in the early twentieth century stands looking at the lush expanse over the moor. Built by Julius Drewe for his family they have lived here since the completion of the building in the thirties. The family remained in residence until they gave the home to the love and protection of the National Trust which is the guardians of the history and homes of England. Touring the Castle Drogo and the grounds makes for a lovely day out.

The history of the area is balanced only by the magnificence of these moors. This large expanse of area called Dartmoor - Devon gives you ample opportunity to see the land, trod over it by foot, and immerse yourself in the culture it possesses.