About Dartmoor
Dartmoor has evolved over many thousands of years, both by natural process, and with the help of man.
Within its 368 square miles, we are presented with remains including prehistoric stone rows, medieval fortified villages, Saxon longhouses, 12th century mining, as well as more recent evidence of human enterprise.
Once covered entirely by woodland, the landscape is now a rich mixture of
boulder strewn rivers
, bustling market
towns and villages
, lush green farmland, beautiful flooded valleys, and of course, granite topped tors. The moor is the largest area of wild open countryside in the whole of southern England.
Today over 30,000 people live or work within the National Park. On the outskirts, towns such as
Tavistock
, Ashburton and
Mortonhampstead
provide well, as they have always done, for locals and visitors alike.
Meanwhile, beautiful villages like North Bovey, Manaton and Buckland nestle quietly within the moor, seemingly unchanged as the centuries pass by.
Whilst we enjoy the splendours of the area, we must remember that this is a living, working landscape. Farming utilises over 90% of the moor, mostly open grazing on common land by sheep and cattle, with arable and dairy farms towards the fringes.
Local granite was used in the construction of many of London's famous landmark buildings,
including the 1831 London Bridge.
Ponies still roam freely, though now in far fewer numbers than half a century ago. Not all are pure Dartmoor, some Shetlands and other breeds have found their way here ! Despite what many people think, they are not wild (but they are untamed), and each one is owned, branded and tagged.
Click here for more information about Dartmoor-ponies.
So, as you see, lots of unique subjects and beautiful landscapes to photograph. Ready? Ok, so let's start with some simple
photography tips
to improve your images.
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