6 September 2005
There’s Moor to stay for on Dartmoor
Come to Dartmoor this autumn and winter because now, thanks to the Dartmoor National Park Authority, there is much more to stay for. Why not enjoy a weekend break, or longer stay, on Dartmoor and take advantage of the exciting range of special events and activities in Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Moor to stay for programme, for all ages to enjoy.
In partnership with the National Trust, English Nature, the Forestry Commission, RSPB, Devon Discovery, and several Dartmoor-based organisations, the National Park Authority has put together a rich mix of themed weekends, dedicated to celebrating Dartmoor’s heritage, archaeology, wildlife, poetry, photography, cooking, myths and legends, and much more. The programme begins in September 2005 and runs right through to May 2006.
Jeff Haynes, Director of Understanding and Enjoyment, Dartmoor National Park Authority, said:
‘We piloted Moor to stay for in autumn 2004 with the help and support of many Dartmoor-based organisations and accommodation providers, who were keen to extend an out of season warm welcome to visitors and ensure that they made the most of their stay.
The campaign generated a great deal of interest, and I am delighted that, this year, the Moor to stay for programme is being extended, with even more to enjoy. There really is something for everyone.’
Philip Davies, Chairman of the Dartmoor Tourist Association, said:
‘Many of our members will be promoting their own special offers right through the campaign period, to encourage more visitors to stay overnight, or even longer, when they see what is on offer. The Moor to stay for programme contains a superb variety of events and activities providing great opportunities to enjoy this beautiful area. And by enjoying a short break on Dartmoor this autumn or winter you will be providing the local economy with a very welcome boost.’
A free full colour publication, listing all the Moor to stay for events and activities will be available from all National Park Authority Information Centres, Tourist Information Centres, libraries and many other outlets on Dartmoor, from mid-September 2005, or simply call the Dartmoor Tourist Association on (01822) 890 567.
Ends
For Further Information from Dartmoor National Park Authority
Steve Widman, Tourism & Recreational Transport Officer
Claire Partridge, Information Officer (Activities)
Mike Nendick, Communications Officer, Dartmoor National Park Authority
Tel: (01626) 832093
For Further Information from the Dartmoor Tourist Association
Penny McInnes, Dartmoor Tourist Association
Tel: (08122) 890 567
Agendas for full Dartmoor National Park Authority meetings and Dartmoor National Park Authority planning meetings are now available on the Authority's website
You can receive an e-mail notification each time a News Release is issued by the Dartmoor National Park Authority.
News Releases from all UK National Parks
Notes for Editors
The Moor to stay for programme includes the following themed weekends and events:
Heritage Weekend (9 - 11 September 2005)
Step back in time to celebrate Dartmoor’s rich archaeological, architectural, cultural and industrial heritage with specially themed historical walks, illuminating talks and a host of special events (many of them free). This weekend coincides with Heritage Open Days 2005, a national celebration of our diverse cultural heritage, organised by the Civic Trust and English Heritage. Moor to stay for Heritage Weekend includes some activities and properties taking part in this event.
Wealth of Wildlife Weekend (23 - 25 September 2005)
A weekend designed to appeal to all those with an interest in wildlife. Discover more about Dartmoor’s wonderful world of nature, with a series of walks and special activities to choose from.
Moor Fun Week (22 - 30 October 2005)
A fun week for all the family, offering a host of exciting events and activities, designed to make this half-term an unforgettable experience for you and your children.
Dartmoor Myths & Legends (5 - 6 November 2005)
Pixies, witches, headless horsemen, hairy hands, heartbreak and romance. Dartmoor abounds with myths and legends that never fail to intrigue. This weekend of walks and talks will appeal to everyone with an interest in Dartmoor’s mysteries.
Dartmoor Beer & Cheese Challenge (26 - 27 November 2005)
A weekend when Dartmoor’s eating establishments will be challenged to produce the most original menus, using Princetown produced Jail Ale, and the finest west country cheeses.
Winter Wonderland (December 2005)
Think of roaring log fires, great food and good company. During the month of December, Dartmoor accommodation providers will be offering special deals to tempt you to enjoy the festive season in style.
Archaeology Weekend (28 - 29 January 2006)
Dartmoor is one of the most important areas in Western Europe in terms of its Bronze Age archeology. There are medieval farmsteads and associated field systems, and the remains of a tin industry at least 700 years old. This weekend of special walks and talks is dedicated to helping more people appreciate Dartmoor’s exceptional archaeological value and importance.
Dartmoor in Focus (February 2006)
With its spectacular landscape, wealth of wildlife, rich archaeological remains, and fascinating cultural heritage, there is something to inspire us all to take out our cameras. The Dartmoor Tourist Association is sponsoring Dartmoor in Focus, a photographic competition. The winners will be chosen by visitors to the Tourist Association’s website, where the images will be on display.
Poetry Please (22 April 2006)
Schools, pubs, clubs, hotels, restaurants and many other establishments will be participating in Poetry Please special events, recitals and workshops.
Gardens in Trust (20 - 21 May 2006)
Talks and special tours, hosted by the head gardeners of Castle Drogo (the last castle to be built in Britain) and Buckland Abbey (the home of famous Elizabethan sea farer Sir Francis Drake) will take place during this two day event. A must for all interested in gardens and gardening.
National Parks cover 10% of the land area of England, Wales and Scotland. They are of special value to the whole nation because of their great beauty, their wildlife and cultural interests and the opportunities they offer for quiet enjoyment. However, they are not nationally owned - the land is in the hands of many landowners or occupiers including farmers. Over 33,000 people live inside the Dartmoor National Park and many millions of visits are made to it each year.
Return to General Interest News Releases 2005 Archive
This page last updated 6 September 2005
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