From Exmoor’s wild coast to Dartmoor’s granite tors
The Two Moors Way runs for 117 miles across Devon, linking Exmoor National Park in the north with Dartmoor National Park in the south. It’s one of South West England’s classic long-distance walking holidays, crossing wild uplands, rolling farmland, deep river valleys, and traditional villages.
Starting on the North Devon coast at Lynmouth, the route climbs through Exmoor’s heather moors, dips into wooded combes and quiet hamlets, then traverses the heart of mid-Devon before reaching the open granite landscapes of Dartmoor. The trail ends in the cathedral city of Plymouth, where the River Plym meets the sea.
For walkers, it’s a journey through Devon’s contrasting landscapes — from remote high ground to fertile valleys and historic market towns — with a strong sense of continuity and adventure.
Trail Overview
- Type: Long-distance walking route (waymarked with the white cross on a black background)
- Distance: 117 miles (188 km)
- Start: Lynmouth, Exmoor National Park (North Devon)
- End: Plymouth, South Devon
- Time required: 9–12 days (for the full route)
- Terrain: Moorland ridges, river valleys, farmland, wooded combes, historic towns
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging — a mix of high moorland and rolling countryside
- Accessibility: Well waymarked; can be split into shorter sections or day walks
Explore the Route
Lynmouth to Withypool (Exmoor)
Climb from the Bristol Channel into Exmoor’s deep valleys and open moors, with highlights including the East Lyn River and the village of Withypool.
Withypool to Morchard Bishop (Mid-Devon)
The trail leaves Exmoor for Devon’s rural heartland, passing through farmland, woods, and small villages. This middle section feels quieter and more pastoral.
Morchard Bishop to Chagford (Dartmoor North)
The landscape rises again onto Dartmoor, with granite tors, wide skies, and ancient trackways leading towards Chagford.
Chagford to Ivybridge (Dartmoor South)
Cross the wild expanses of southern Dartmoor, including remote ridges and rivers like the Erme, before descending towards Ivybridge.
Ivybridge to Plymouth
A gentler finish along riverside and woodland trails, leading into the historic naval city of Plymouth at the southern coast.
Stay and Explore
- National Parks: Exmoor & Dartmoor — inns, farm stays, and moorland B&Bs
- Market towns: Chagford, Withypool, Ivybridge — full of heritage and cosy pubs
- Rural escapes: Family-run guesthouses and cottages in mid-Devon’s countryside
- Food & drink: Devon cream teas, Exmoor lamb, Dartmoor ales, and local farm produce
- Attractions: Exmoor ponies, Dartmoor tors, historic churches, and Plymouth’s maritime heritage
Adventure Highlights
- Starting by the sea at Lynmouth and finishing at Plymouth
- Exmoor National Park: moorland ridges, wooded valleys, red deer, and wild ponies
- Mid-Devon countryside: a patchwork of farmland and quiet villages
- Dartmoor National Park: granite tors, stone circles, wide open landscapes
- River crossings including the Teign and Erme
- Historic market towns and villages along the way
