Dartmoor retains almost mythical status for those who live within striking distance of its 954 sq km perimeter. Made up of open moorland, forests, woodland, reservoirs and many a small village, this is one of the UK’s most well protected national parks. Although public transport will just about get you there, county Devon is somewhere to have a car, and Dartmoor is no exception. Gather a few friends and head off for an early morning walk one weekend and don’t forget a pair of wellington boots, or outdoor trainers at least, as the terrain remains notoriously muddy for much of the year. Wind, mist and fog have all been known to appear without a moments notice, but so can horizons peppered with wild horses, rare birds overhead and some of the most glorious visions of the English countryside this side of a BBC period drama.