Dartmoor National Park is asking people to ‘be kind’ to each other with continued social distancing and respect for the parks this bank holiday weekend.

When the Government introduced new travel and exercise guidance many people took the opportunity to go to Dartmoor for some fresh air.

Last weekend, Dartmoor was busier than ever and the same is expected this coming bank holiday weekend.

The national park has offered the following advice:

Car parks, visitor centres and toilets

National park authority car parks are open. If car parks are full, please don’t park on verges or in front of gates. Access needs to be kept clear for farmers, residents and emergency/public services.

Public toilets and visitor centres remain closed and will only open when it is safe to do so.

It is great to see the vast majority of people following social distancing guidelines and being considerate of the environment, each other and local communities. Our thanks to all of you for doing your bit.

Help us to ‘Love Moor Life’

We’re encouraging you to ‘Love Moor Life (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/enjoy-dartmoor/love-moor-life) ’ and do a few simple things to help keep each other, and the moor’s wildlife and habitats, safe and able to thrive.

We appreciate how loved Dartmoor is; it’s an incredible place and one that people feel connected to both mentally and physically.

We are working hard to balance your needs against those of our communities and the landscape itself.

We’re inviting you to:

Share the space: Keep within your own household group and follow social distancing guidelines. There are lots of animals roaming free on Dartmoor so be mindful of them – drive carefully and within speed limits.

Why not take the opportunity to explore somewhere new or visit a little earlier or later in the day? That way, you’ll help prevent popular places and parking areas from becoming too crowded.

Care for the countryside: Since we’ve been away wildlife has flourished. The cuckoo has returned from its epic 10,000-mile migration from the Congo and if you’re lucky you may spot rare blue ground beetles scuttling around in moss-covered boulders or tree trunks. Keeping dogs on leads at all times will protect moorland birds nesting on the ground and protect your dog from adders basking in the sun on the open moor.

Get to know your Countryside Code (https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/701188/countryside-code.pdf) before you come. When you leave, take all your litter home so these special and rare creatures can enjoy their homes here too.

Consider communities: Many are home to vulnerable people and some may still be self-isolating or shielding. Lots of tourism businesses remain closed but farmers are still hard at work.

Don’t light barbecues or fires – the ground is very dry and prone to catching fire quickly, putting extra pressure on emergency services and public services.

And finally… Be kind: Perhaps now more than ever, we need to be kind to each other and the environment. By doing that and staying up to date with our advice (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/about-us/how-we-work/coronavirus-update) , you’ll make a huge difference. Don’t forget the Rangers are there to help keep you and Dartmoor a safe and welcome place – so give them a smile and a wave if you see them!

Donate for Dartmoor supports a variety of projects across Dartmoor.

Donations of time and money are essential for us to be able to look after the heritage and wildlife of Dartmoor and to make it a place for everyone to enjoy today, tomorrow and for the future.