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Nature & wildlife · Plymouth

Top 7 nature & wildlife things to do in Plymouth

Wildlife, forests, gardens, and the green pockets of Plymouth that make it bearable in monsoon and beautiful by November. Day trips and short drives where the landscape is the point.

  1. Dartmoor National Park and the Hound of the Baskervilles, Plymouth1

    1. Dartmoor National Park and the Hound of the Baskervilles

    Explore the haunting landscapes of Dartmoor on a unique tour inspired by the legendary Hound of the Baskervilles. Discover chilling ghost stories and local folklore dating back to the 1600s, while visiting real locations that influenced Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s dark narrative. Engage with tales of cursed maidens and eerie happenings as you traverse the moors. This immersive journey not only deepens your appreciation for the classic novel but also provides insight into Dartmoor's mysterious history. - Visit iconic locations including Holy Trinity Church, Ashburton, Grimpen Mire, Grimspound, and HM Dartmoor Prison - Learn about local ghost stories and folklore intertwined with Dartmoor's history - Enjoy a guided experience that reveals the true tales behind the Hound of the Baskervilles - Perfect for fans of literature, history buffs, and those intrigued by the supernatural

  2. Pirates, Poetry and Prosperity: An Audio Tour of Fowey, Plymouth2

    2. Pirates, Poetry and Prosperity: An Audio Tour of Fowey

    Fowey has earned its living from the sea for over a thousand years. On this self guided audio tour, you’ll discover how this Cornish harbour town prospered through trade, survived brutal attacks, and developed a talent for brandy smuggling. The tour starts at the Bodinnick Ferry near Caffa Mill Car Park, where China clay was loaded onto ships bound for the world. You’ll walk along Fore Street’s historic merchant quarter, and along the Town Quay where deep water still allows cruise ships to anchor. Along the way, you’ll find out how the River Fowey connected inland Cornwall to global trade routes, and why controlling this waterway meant controlling wealth and power. The tour ends at St Catherine’s Castle, a fortress built by Henry VIII to ensure this strategic harbour would never fall again.

  3. Dartmoor Audio Driving Tour: 10,000 Years of Human History, Plymouth3

    3. Dartmoor Audio Driving Tour: 10,000 Years of Human History

    Dartmoor’s granite was forged 280 million years ago. On this audio driving tour, you’ll trace 10,000 years of human history across one of Britain’s most extraordinary landscapes, from Bronze Age settlements to Napoleonic prison walls. The tour starts at the Haytor Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre, where you can climb one of Dartmoor’s most iconic granite tors before setting off. You’ll wind south through the villages of Widecombe in the Moor and Ponsworthy, their very names encoding the Old English and Latin of early settlers. From Merrivale’s Bronze Age hut circles and stone rows, to the ancient oak woodland of Wistman’s Wood and the twin granite rings of Grey Wethers, you’ll encounter a landscape that was once densely settled and then gradually abandoned as the climate turned colder. The last stop before heading back up to Haytor is at the House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey, a working glass and marble studio housed in the original Victorian pottery buildings.

  1. Dartmoor National Park - Private Tour (incl. Transport), Plymouth4

    4. Dartmoor National Park - Private Tour (incl. Transport)

    · 8 hours

    Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Dartmoor, where wild beauty, ancient history, and hidden gems await at every turn. This private tour, designed for groups of up to four guests, offers a relaxed and flexible experience tailored entirely to your interests. Guided by James — Dartmoor resident and second generation guide, you’ll enjoy insights and stories that bring this magical part of the world to life. Explore moorland life, granite outcrops, and tranquil river valleys alive with wildlife. Savour a handcrafted picnic hamper, thoughtfully prepared to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re seeking an invigorating walk across the moor or simply wish to take in the sights at a gentler pace, this tour offers a unique chance to connect with nature & uncover Dartmoor’s timeless charm - Full-day private tour - Complimentary pick-up & drop-off service - Enjoy a picnic hamper - tailored to your preferences & allergies - Led by local guide - uncover Dartmoor's hidden gems!

  2. Stand Up Paddling Adventure, Plymouth5

    5. Stand Up Paddling Adventure

    5.0· 9 reviews· 1.5 hours

    We use a protected stunning part of the estuary suited perfectly towards learning to SUP. Boasting incredible views and scenery this is an amazing adventure packed with wildlife and tranquil paddling.

  3. Half Day Guided Canoe Trip in Totnes, Plymouth6

    6. Half Day Guided Canoe Trip in Totnes

    4.8· 18 reviews· 4 hours

    The River Dart is a special place. Stunningly beautiful scenery, never busy, and always something to discover. You might even spot a seal! Our guides will look after you and make sure that you are safe as well as show you the prettiest corners of the Dart estuary. Small group sizes and experienced guides will help you relax and connect with nature.

  4. 1.5-Hour Swanaford Vineyard Tour And Tasting Experience, Plymouth7

    7. 1.5-Hour Swanaford Vineyard Tour And Tasting Experience

    4.8· 9 reviews· 1.5 hours

    A tour of Swanaford Vineyard gives visitors a fascinating insight into growing grapes and making wine in England. Visitors will walk through the vines, seeing the five varieties that we grow on site, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier which are the traditional champagne grapes. A visit in the spring will allow visitors to see the vines emerging from winter hibernation, with new shoots forming on the recently pruned vines. In high summer or early autumn, expect lots of vigorous growth and, of course, grapes! The vineyard is set in a beautiful valley within the Dartmoor National Park and is surrounded by breathtaking countryside. Our group sizes are kept deliberately small to ensure that each visitor has a comfortable and engaging experience. Our guides are all highly knowledgeable and extremely friendly. We welcome questions and are happy to talk about all aspects of vineyard management and winemaking. Food is available after the tour, see our website.

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