Church of St Michael, Princetown

The granite church sitting on Princetown's high moor feels properly austere - all weathered stone and no-nonsense angles. Built in 1814, St Michael's was funded by the man who developed the prison down the road, so it carries that same fortress-like atmosphere. Inside, it's surprisingly spacious and bright, with decent windows letting moorland light flood across the pews.

Walkers will appreciate this more than casual visitors. It's the sort of place you stumble upon mid-ramble across Dartmoor rather than drive to specifically. The surrounding moorland is the real draw - the church is just a logical stopping point, somewhere to catch your breath and take in the wildness around you. Families with older kids might find it worth a quick look if you're already in the area, though younger ones will be restless after ten minutes.

It's free to visit and sits at around 1,400 feet, so the approach is exposed and windswept - bring a jacket even in summer. Access isn't tricky from Tavistock, though you'll need a car to reach it properly. Allow maybe 20-30 minutes if you're coming specifically, longer if you're combining it with a proper moorland walk.

Pair it with time at Dartmoor National Park just down the road. The landscape here defines the whole area - Langstone Manor is another solid option for base camp if you're staying over. The church works best as part of a broader moorland day rather than a destination unto itself.