About
Visiting Grimspound with your dog is a fantastic way to explore one of Dartmoor’s most fascinating archaeological sites while enjoying the rugged beauty of the moorland. This Bronze Age settlement offers an atmospheric experience, and the wide open spaces make it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and dog lovers.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your dog-friendly visit to Grimspound.
Dog Access and Rules
Grimspound is a dog-friendly site, perfect for a day out with your canine companion. Since it’s an open moorland area, dogs can explore alongside you. However, as with all areas on Dartmoor, keeping your dog on a lead or under close control is essential, mainly because of the livestock that freely graze the moor. You’ll often encounter sheep and ponies, and ensuring your dog doesn’t disturb them is essential.
Things To See & Do
Grimspound is located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, near the village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. This ancient site dates back to the late Bronze Age (about 1450–700 BC) and is one of the best-preserved examples of a prehistoric settlement on Dartmoor. Today, it consists of the remains of 24 stone roundhouses and a boundary wall about 150 metres in diameter.
The site is considered a farming settlement, offering a fascinating glimpse into life during the Bronze Age. The dramatic landscape surrounding Grimspound, with its views of rugged tors and rolling hills, adds to the site’s allure, making it a captivating place to explore with your dog.
There’s plenty to do with your dog in and around Grimspound, making it an excellent destination for a day of adventure. Walk through the ancient stone enclosure and imagine what life was like for the Bronze Age inhabitants. Your dog will enjoy sniffing around the stone walls and huts; there’s plenty of space to roam.
Grimspound is surrounded by stunning Dartmoor scenery, making it a perfect spot for hiking. Several trails lead to and from the site, including routes to nearby tors like Hookney Tor and Hameldown Tor. These walks offer fantastic moor views and are a great way to enjoy the fresh air with your dog.
Access and Facilities
Reaching Grimspound is part of the adventure, as it involves a scenic drive through Dartmoor and a short walk to the site. Located near Widecombe-in-the-Moor in Dartmoor. You can park in a layby along the B3212 road, which is the closest access point. It’s a short but slightly uphill walk to the site, taking about 15-20 minutes. The walk is manageable for most dogs but be prepared for uneven ground.
Public transport options to Dartmoor are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach Grimspound.
If you’re already exploring Dartmoor on foot, Grimspound can be included in a longer hiking route. The site is close to several popular walking trails, making it a great stop.
As a remote site, Grimspound has no facilities other than parking at the nearby layby.
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