Outdoor Active in and around Tavistock

Tavistock offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature lovers and those looking for an active lifestyle. Being situated on the western edge of Dartmoor National Park there are a number of fantastic opportunities to get out and explore the dramatic landscape. Hike up the towering peaks and tors, glide along miles upon miles of cycle paths or even ride across the moors on a horse. As Dartmoor is such a vast and dynamic landscape, there’s so many different environments to explore. Across the 368 square miles of land, we boast stunning reservoirs, immense granite tors, mesmerising woodlands and winding rivers to traverse.

Here are some of the best outdoor activities in and around Tavistock:

Hiking and Walking

• Tavistock Canal Walk: A peaceful and scenic walk along the Tavistock Canal, offering beautiful views and a tranquil environment.

• Tavistock Meadows: Ideal for a leisurely stroll, this park features open spaces, a river, and pathways perfect for walking or jogging.

• Dartmoor National Park: Just a short drive away, Dartmoor offers extensive trails for all levels of hikers, with breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and diverse wildlife.

Cycling

• Drake's Trail: A 21-mile cycling and walking route that runs between Tavistock and Plymouth, featuring stunning views, viaducts, and tunnels.

• Granite Way: A scenic, mostly traffic-free cycle route on the edge of Dartmoor, stretching for about 11 miles between Okehampton and Lydford.

Water Activities

• Kayaking and Canoeing: The River Tamar offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Guided tours and rentals are available.

• Fishing: There are several fishing spots in and around Tavistock, including Tavistock Trout Fishery and the River Tavy.

• Swimming: Mount Kelly Swim Centre.  They have two indoor swimming pools. The Olympic pool features 8 lanes, Olympic starting blocks, underwater 5m sprint markings and a Pool Pod to assist with accessibility. They also have a 4 lane, 25m pool which is suitable for those learning to swim. Both pools have anti-wave lane lines. All sessions have lifeguards in attendance. They also  offer free parking.

  
  

Horse Riding

• Cholwell Riding Stables is a family-run business that has been providing escorted rides and riding lessons on Dartmoor for fifty years.

Golf

• Tavistock Golf Club: An 18-hole course located on Whitchurch Down, offering stunning views of Dartmoor and a challenging game.

  
  

Adventure and Outdoor Centers

• Tree Surfers: An adventure center located in the Tamar Valley, offering high ropes courses, zip lines, and woodland trails.

• Tamar Trails Centre: Provides a range of activities including mountain biking, tree surfing, archery, and walking trails.

  
  

Tavistock and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

For more information on getting outdoors around Tavistock please visit Things to See & Do in Tavistock | Visit Tavistock (visit-tavistock.co.uk)