Exploring Chagford: A Dartmoor Base for Walkers and Foodies

Forget any notion of a typical Devon village. Chagford is a unique place, a magnet for visitors drawn to its historic charm and wild Dartmoor setting. Nestled into the hills on the north-eastern side of Dartmoor and easily accessed from the A30, this stannary town is small but perfect. It’s a living, working community with a strong artistic streak and a reputation for excellent food. If you’re looking for a base to explore Chagford Dartmoor that has its own distinct character and plenty of comforts after a day on the tors, you’ve found it.

Local history and heritage

Chagford has a weight of history that you can feel. Its name, from the Saxon, means “the ford where the gorse grows.” In 1305, it was officially established as one of only four Dartmoor stannary towns. Here, miners brought their tin for weighing and taxing at the Stannary Court. The eight-sided Market House, a focal point in the square, stands on the site of that old court.

The Church of St Michael the Archangel, dating back to the 15th century, is a testament to this prosperous past. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Mary Whiddon, who was shot on her wedding day in 1641 – a story thought to inspire Lorna Doone. Look up at the roof bosses to see the famous ‘Tinners Rabbits’, a symbol of three hares chasing each other in a circle, sharing only three ears between them.

What to see and do in the village

A lot of the pleasure here is in simply wandering. The central square, dominated by the historic Market House (known locally as the Pepperpot), is the natural hub. You’ll see old thatched granite buildings, many dating back to the 16th century.

Shopping in Chagford mirrors the vitality of the town. You’ll find all your everyday needs alongside an exciting mix of unique independent shops. A standout is Bowdens, the famous hardware store running since 1862 and known as “the shop that has everything.” It’s a town built for pottering, not for rushing. For a unique local experience, visit the largest fresh water, open-air swimming pool in the south-west, opened in 1933 and recently refurbished.

Traditional restaurants and pubs

This is where Chagford truly excels. You will not go hungry or thirsty here. The town boasts superb pubs and hotels, each with its own particular character, offering excellent food and a warm welcome.

The Three Crowns

The Three Crowns Chagford is arguably the most famous. Housed in a 13th-century coaching inn, it’s a building full of character with low beams and open fires. The food is a cut above standard pub grub, focusing on quality local produce. You can find their menus and book a table on their website.

The Globe Inn

Just down the road, the 3 Crowns Chagford has a rival in the form of The Globe Inn. It has a similarly cosy and historic feel, with a strong focus on real ales and a menu of hearty, quality pub food. Their details are here.

The Chagford Inn

Another excellent option is The Chagford Inn, a family-run, dog-friendly pub dedicated to serving local ales and classic, well-executed pub food in a relaxed setting. You can learn more about their approach on their website.

The Old Forge

The Old Forge is a tea house run by locals Simon and Claire offering excellent, high-quality food in a more relaxed setting. It’s the perfect choice for a full English and a coffee or Cream Tea with freshly-made scones. Open Wednesday to Saturday 9:30 AM til 4 PM.

Activities in Dartmoor and the surrounding area

You come to Chagford Dartmoor for the access. Step outside the town and you are essentially already on the moor. This is prime walking territory.

A short drive or a decent walk will bring you to iconic tors like Kestor and Meldon Hill, offering panoramic views back towards the town and across vast swathes of open countryside. The walk up to the nearby Hunter’s Tor is a favourite for an evening stroll.

For a more substantial adventure, the deep river valleys of the Teign Gorge are close by. Here, you can walk through ancient woodland owned by the National Trust at places like Fingle Woods, with the river rushing below.

It’s not all about strenuous hikes. The nearby Dartmoor National Park Visitor Centre at Parke provides an excellent introduction to the area’s ecology and history.

For a change of pace, the picturesque village of Drewsteignton, with its famous thatched pub, The Drewe Arms, is a short drive away and sits proudly above the Teign Gorge.

Tips for organising your visit

A little planning will make your trip much more enjoyable. Firstly, parking in the main square is limited and often has a time restriction. It’s best to use one of the larger, free car parks on the edge of the town, such as the one near the recreation ground. It’s only a two-minute walk into the centre and saves any hassle.

The weather on Dartmoor is famously changeable. Even if it’s sunny in the town, the higher tors can be shrouded in mist and wind. Always pack a waterproof layer and sturdy footwear if you plan on walking. The paths can be rocky and wet underfoot.

Many of the shops and some cafes are closed on Sundays. It’s also wise to book tables for dinner at the popular pubs like the Three Crowns Chagford well in advance, especially at weekends and during the holiday season. They tend to get quite busy.

Come and explore Chagford

Chagford offers a rare combination: the deep, quiet history of a Dartmoor town, a thriving community with excellent food and drink, and immediate access to some of the wildest landscapes in the country. It’s a place that feels authentic, a proper base for an exploration of Devon that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for location.

To do it justice, you need more than a day trip. Staying over lets you experience the village atmosphere after the day-trippers have left and gives you a full day on the moor without a long drive home. Fresh Escapes has a selection of holiday cottages and characterful properties in and around Chagford, from central bolt-holes to more remote farmsteads on the edge of the moor.

Browse our Chagford properties now