Two Moors Way

From Exmoor's high moors to Dartmoor's granite skyline.

The Two Moors Way is a long-distance route running from Lynmouth on the north coast of Devon to Plymouth on the south coast. Crossing the heart of Devon, the trail links Exmoor National Park and Dartmoor National Park through a continuous journey of open moorland, wooded valleys, farmland, rivers, and historic settlements.

As a self-guided journey, the route connects places such as Lynmouth, Withypool, Knowstone, Chagford, Ivybridge, and Plymouth while passing through some of southern England's most distinctive upland landscapes. Moorland tracks, riverside paths, woodland trails, farm tracks, and quiet country lanes create a route defined by changing scenery and a strong sense of progression across the county.

The character of the route changes steadily as it moves south. Exmoor's open ridges, steep-sided valleys, and remote moorland create a dramatic beginning before the trail descends into the gentler farmland and rolling countryside of Mid Devon. Further south, the landscape rises once more onto the granite uplands of Dartmoor, where tors, open moor, rivers, and expansive views dominate the final stages of the journey.

The contrast between Devon's two national parks gives the route its identity. Exmoor feels rugged, windswept, and coastal in character, while Dartmoor is broader, higher, and defined by granite and open space. Between them, farmland, villages, and river valleys provide a quieter and more settled landscape.

With established waymarking, regular settlements, and a wide variety of scenery, the Two Moors Way offers one of the finest inland long-distance journeys in South West England. The trail combines moorland, countryside, and heritage, creating a rewarding crossing of Devon from coast to coast.

Overview

Distance 117 miles / 188 km

Duration 9–12 days

Difficulty Moderate

Start Lynmouth, Devon

Finish Plymouth, Devon

Terrain Moorland ridges, granite uplands, river valleys, farmland paths, woodland tracks, and market towns

Waymarking White cross on black background