How are we today? Have you got any plans for trips this year? Me – contrary to the last year, when I went to Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, and Japan, I have very little planned for 2024. And therefore, I am very much looking forward to any getting away this year. First up is my trip to Dartmoor National Park.
Have you been to this part of England? I haven’t yet – hence me looking forward to it! Here’s what I am planning to do and see when I’m there.
Castle Drogo
This impressive building was the last castle to be built in England. Finished in 10th century, it’s a country house and a castle, which was commissioned by a self-made millionaire Julius Drewe (what to do with your money…)
Image credits: Visit Dartmoor
I’m looking forward to exploring its grounds and the gardens. It all looks quite enchanting!
Stone Lane Gardens
This corner of Dartmoor National Park looks beautiful and calming. And I’m positive I will need calm and peace during my trip so this place sounds ideal.
The Gardens are a stone throw from Castle Drogo. The place was founded by Kenneth and June Ashburner who kept growing their gardens and lands.
Images credit: Visit Dartmoor/Visit Chagford
Now there is also an annual exhibition of art so I’m hoping to be wandering around the beautiful grounds while admiring outdoor sculptures.
Becky Falls
Another part of the world that looks most picturesque.
Becky Falls are 12000 years old. Yup, you read that right. Formed in the last Ice Age, the waterfall is all created by nature. The pictures show quite a spectacular view, so I’m hoping the weather doesn’t play a trick and ruins my visit.
Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey is in the southern part of Dartmoor National Park, and I’m thinking of visiting it on my way to Brixham.
The Abbey was originally founded in 1018. It has been through quite a lot, including being demolished and subsequently rebuilt.
Images credit: Visit Dartmoor
The grounds and gardens look simply beautiful, and I’m also keen to learn about the life of monks who live in the Abbey.
Again, let’s hope the weather doesn’t ruin my plans.
Brixham in Devon.
The last point on my Dartmoor National Park trip itinerary is Brixham. A small town by coast in Devon, it’s part of so called English Riviera. I’m not going to get my hopes too high about the Riviera aspect, but the town looks colourful and picturesque.
Images credit: Love Exploring / Trip Advisor
I think it will be a good spot for lunch and a wander around the harbour, before I hit the road to drive home.
Quite a few of my spots to visit are outside so I am really hoping the weather is kind to me.
Also, a Thank You to my friend who has suggested a few of the places listed here to me 🙂