Land on Dartmoor is used by the Ministry of Defence for the purposes of training the armed forces.
This land is known as the defence training estate.
Much of this land is privately owned and training is permitted under license from landowners.
On Dartmoor, there are three training ranges: Okehampton, Merrivale and Willsworthy.
Military training can involve the use of live ammunition in these areas.
There are also training areas at Cramber Tor, Ringmoor and Sheeps Tor.
No live ammunition is used there.
It’s important to remember that they are still active military working environments. For your safety, and to protect the personnel training there, you should still be cautious and respectful during your visit.
You should always check firing times and access guidelines before you visit these areas.
Unexploded ordnance
Unexploded ordnance, sometimes called UXO, refers to items such as bombs, artillery shells and small arms ammunition.
If you encounter unexploded ordnance anywhere on the moor, you should:
- Leave it where it is – do not touch or move the object
- Move to a safe area, making a note of its location
- Inform Okehampton Camp on 01837 657210 or call 999 and request police assistance
Safe access: what you need to know
You can help keep yourself and Armed Forces safe by following the MOD’s Respect the Range guidance:
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Look out for red flags and lights – these indicate that live firing or other high-risk activity is taking place
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Check firing times and access guidelines online before you visit
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Pay close attention to signage, information boards and live indicators – they are there for your safety
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Stay on public footpaths, bridleways, PROW and byways – do not enter restricted or closed areas
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Keep your dog under control and in sight at all times – uncontrolled dogs can stray into danger zones and disrupt training. Always pick up after your dog.
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Do not touch military debris – report anything you find so it can be safely removed
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Be courteous to other users, and follow any further guidance offered by military personnel and safety officers
Dartmoor Steering Group
The Dartmoor Steering Group was established in 1978 on the instructions of the Secretaries of State for Defence and Environment following the recommendation of Baroness Sharp’s non statutory public inquiry into the military use of Dartmoor in 1975.
It brings together the Ministry of Defence plus the key statutory and landowning bodies that have an interest in the management of Dartmoor Training Area to keep under review the best possible reconciliation of the requirements of military training, conservation and public access.
Its members include representatives of Commander 43 Wessex Brigade and Commandant Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, Defence Estates, Dartmoor National Park Authority, Dartmoor Commoners Council, Duchy of Cornwall, English Heritage and Natural England.