Explore Dartmoor’s hidden heritage with ponies and Bronze Age ruins for free

Families looking for a fun, free day out this summer are being encouraged to visit Bellever on Dartmoor, home to ancient history, striking moorland views and a roaming herd of native ponies.

The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT), which manages the site in partnership with Forestry England, says Bellever offers a unique blend of nature and archaeology, with the added bonus of free activities and facilities.

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Visitors can explore Bronze Age hut circles, burial cairns and stone rows, enjoy panoramic views from Bellever Tor, and meet the iconic Heritage Dartmoor Ponies, a hardy breed vital to conservation efforts across the moor.

Mike Lithgow, chairman of the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust, said: “Bellever is a jewel in the crown of Dartmoor, and we are delighted to welcome everyone to experience its wonders this summer.

“Our Heritage Dartmoor Ponies are not only iconic; they are vital to the health of this unique environment. By visiting, you're embracing the beauty of Dartmoor and understanding the living legacy we work so hard to protect.”

The ponies play a key role in conservation grazing, helping control invasive grasses such as Molinia to allow native wildflowers and wildlife to flourish.

Alongside the wildlife and heritage, Bellever offers a free children’s play area, picnic spots, riverside access, ample free parking, and public toilets at the nearby Postbridge Visitor Centre.

The DPHT is also offering free guided walks for groups of six or more. 

These must be booked in advance by emailing admin@dpht.co.uk.

The walks are led by knowledgeable guides and cover the area’s ecology, history, and the important role ponies play in maintaining biodiversity.

For more information, visit www.dpht.co.uk or email the trust directly.