Essentials to know about Letterboxing before you go

Dartmoor in general

  • Dartmoor is home to 31,000 people, so don't disrupt their daily lives
  • You have a right to walk no Common Land or Access land by Law, but repect the land as much of it is privately owned
  • Dogs must be kept on a lead (or under close control) to prevent worry to other animals. Park Rangers can require a dog to be leashed.
  • The Military has several firing ranges on the north of the moor which will be closed to the public during use. Red flags will be clearly flying at the edges of the ranges when they are closed to the Public. It is dangerous to cross onto the ranges at these times and should never be done under any circumstances. For details on firing times phone 01752 501478 or contact a National park information centre
  • Military debris may be left on the ground after firng has stopped, under no circumstances should it be touched, contact the Army if any is discovered, using the information supplied on one the Range notice boards
  • Dartmoor is a dangerous place, with the weather able to change very quickly, and thick fog appearing. always go well prepared, taking a jacket and warm clothing, after all you can take a jacket off if you are warm, but you can't put another T-shirt on to keep dry!
  • Take a map and Compass with you, as it can be very easy to get lost in some areas, especially as it is so vast and certain bits look very much like others
  • Dartmoor is part of our national heritage, and should be treated with repect and care at all times. Damage is costly and can't always be repaired
  • Leave only footprints, take only photos

    Letterboxing

    letterboxes are not situated:-

  • On private land
  • Where it will disturb wildlife
  • In conservation areas
  • In any archaeological feature
  • In ruined buildings

    The gate at Grimspound.

    When searching for Letterboxes

  • Don't damage or disturb the Land
  • Replace the box (and any covering stones, grass etc) exactly as you found it
  • Do not endager your own or someone else's life
  • Follow the Country Code
  • Enjoy yourself

    The Country Code

  • Guard against all risk of Fire
  • Fasten All gates after use
  • Keep your dog on a lead or under close contro
  • Keep to paths accross Farmland
  • Avoid Damaging fences, haedges and Walls
  • Leave no litter
  • Safeguard water supplies
  • Protect Wildlife, wild plants and trees
  • Go carefully on country roads
  • Respect the life of the Countryside

    Please contact me with any relevant information about letterboxes, ie any new ones discovered, unsual boxes, or boxes that you have placed and want people to know about  

    Website design (c)John Finch 1998. Contact john@plympton.info for details