Dartmoor elopement photographer | How to plan a magical adventure elopement on Dartmoor
How to Elope on Dartmoor – A photographer’s insider guide to secret locations & best light
For couples who love the wild outdoors, Dartmoor offers the perfect backdrop for an adventurous, nature-filled elopement. From sweeping moorland and ancient stone circles to secluded tors and babbling rivers, Dartmoor is as stunning as it is remote. If you’re dreaming of an elopement that celebrates your love for each other and the natural world this part of Devon is utterly magical. Dartmoor is wildly beautiful, unpredictable, and quiet which is exactly why it’s such an incredible place to elope. I’ve photographed elopements here for years, in all seasons and all weathers, and this guide is designed to help you plan an intimate Dartmoor elopement that actually works – logistically, legally, and photographically.
This isn’t a generic Pinterest-style guide. It’s real, practical advice: when to elope, where to go, how to plan it, how to get the best light – and how to keep it feeling private and meaningful.
Why choose Dartmoor for your elopement?
Dartmoor offers something that very few places in the UK can.
- Vast, cinematic landscapes that feel completely untamed
- Incredible variety – tors, rivers, ancient woodland, open moorland
- A sense of solitude, even in peak seasons (if you know where to go)
- Weather that adds drama and atmosphere rather than ruining plans
- Plenty of roaming highland cows, ponies and sheep which add the the magic
Eloping on Dartmoor isn’t about perfection – it’s about presence, freedom, and authenticity.
The legal side: How to actually elope on Dartmoor
You have a few solid options when it comes to legality
1. Legal ceremony nearby + symbolic ceremony on the moor
This is the most popular and flexible option.
- Complete the legal paperwork at a registrar’s office
- Then hold a symbolic ceremony on Dartmoor with a celebrant
- This gives you total freedom of location and timing
2. Licensed venues on the edge of Dartmoor
There are some gorgeous licensed venues right on the moors, but If your dream is barefoot vows by a river or windswept tors, with just the two of you, a Dartmoor elopement is the way to go.
When is the best time to elope on Dartmoor?
Each season brings something completely different
Spring (March–May)
- Fresh greens, flowing rivers, wild ponies with foals, spring flowers
- Changeable weather – layers are essential
- Soft, moody light on overcast days
Summer (June–August)
- Long evenings and golden sunsets
- Heather beginning to bloom later in summer
- Early mornings or evenings off the beaten tract to avoid the crowds
Autumn (September–November)
- My personal favourite
- Rich tones, misty mornings, dramatic skies
- Quieter moorland and incredible atmosphere
Winter (December–February)
- Stark, cinematic, and deeply romantic
- Snow, frost, and low winter sun
- Best for adventurous couples who embrace the elements
- I have a few suggestions on where to this would work really well
The best time of day for light (this matters more than you think)
Light on Dartmoor changes fast – and it’s one of the reasons it photographs so beautifully
Early morning
- Quiet, peaceful, and private
- Soft light, mist, and stillness
- Ideal for intimate vows and portraits
Late afternoon / sunset
- Warm, directional light (when the sun appears!)
- Long shadows and depth in the landscape
- Perfect for relaxed portraits after your ceremony Overcast days are actually brilliant on Dartmoor – they soften the light and bring out texture in the land.
Where to Elope on Dartmoor (Without the Crowds)
This is where local knowledge matters
Popular tors are beautiful – but they’re also busy. Over the years, I’ve found quieter locations that offer:
- Expansive views without footpath traffic
- Sheltered spots near rivers and woodland
- Natural ‘amphitheatres’ perfect for ceremonies
I don’t publicly share exact locations, and that’s intentional.
When you book me, I suggest locations based on:
- The season
- The weather forecast
- Your accessibility needs
- How private you want the moment to feel
This keeps Dartmoor protected and your elopement truly personal.
What to wear for a Dartmoor elopement
Style matters – but comfort matters also as Dartmoor can be a tad chilly
- Dresses that move beautifully in wind
- Boots, walking shoes, or barefoot options
- Layers: shawls, knitwear, wool coats
- Neutral tones photograph beautifully against the moor
This is not the place for stiff, restrictive outfits. Dartmoor rewards ease and movement.
Weather backup plans (because It’s Dartmoor)
Here’s the truth: there is no bad weather, drama and romance are the weather
- Rain brings drama and intimacy
- Wind adds movement and emotion
- Mist creates cinematic magic
I always plan multiple location options so we can adapt on the day without stress.
Making your elopement feel personal
Some ideas to help you plan your Dartmoor elopement
- bring your pets along
- have personal vows
- a hand fasting ceremony
- champagne by the river
- a slow walk across the moor instead of posed photos
Your elopement doesn’t need an audience, just intention.
Final Thoughts
Eloping on Dartmoor isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about choosing a place that feels alive, grounding, and deeply meaningful.
If you want guidance from someone who knows Dartmoor intimately, the light, the seasons, the quiet corners – I’d love to help you plan something honest, beautiful, and completely your own.
Want to see a real Dartmoor elopement?
Check out Sophie and Andy’s wild stone circle elopement
I had the honour of planning and capturing Sophie and Andy’s Dartmoor elopement last April , and it was a dream from start to finish. As a couple, they’re everything I adore about working with adventurous, nature-loving souls. They love exploring wild, untouched landscapes, and they wanted their elopement to reflect their connection to the outdoors. With their two little ones, Nelson and Vienna and their loyal dog, Millie the sprocker in tow, the day was an adventure in every sense of the word.
Planning an elopement in a remote location like Dartmoor takes a little extra thought and care. Sophie and Andy had their official ceremony at Larkbeare House in Exeter, but for their elopement day, they wanted something truly unique. After lots of discussions, we settled on a secluded spot featuring a stone circle, a clapper bridge over a dartmoor river and open moorland that would provide plenty of space for their family (and their excitable toddler, Nelson) to explore.
Location, location, location
The location was breathtaking but came with its challenges. Dartmoor’s terrain can be boggy, uneven, and unpredictable, especially after rain. With Sophie wearing a gorgeous white dress and Andy dressed sharply for the occasion, we had to carefully plan how to get to the location without them being covered in mud. They were absolute troopers, though, balancing the logistics of hiking with children and their dog, plus all the gear needed for the day. It was an adventure, but that’s what made it so special.
The Big Day
The day of the elopement dawned crisp and bright, with Dartmoor showing off its raw, untamed beauty. Sophie and Andy stayed at the charming Mill End Hotel, which made for a perfect base close to the moors. When we arrived at the elopement spot, the landscape felt otherworldly—rolling hills, ancient stones, and the endless BIG skies of Dartmoor.
Nelson, their three-year-old, was a little shy at first, but as soon as he saw the wide-open space, he was off! Between the stone circle, the puddles, and the wild energy of the moor, he couldn’t have been happier. By the end of the session, he’d warmed up so much that he wouldn’t let go of my hand. Watching their family laugh and play in such a stunning setting was a reminder of what elopements are really about: love, connection, and creating memories that are truly your own.
Even their dog joined in the fun, tail wagging and full of energy as we wandered the moors together. The combination of Sophie’s stunning dress, Andy’s joy, and the laughter of their children created a day that felt as wild and free as Dartmoor itself.
To keep costs down and look incredibly stylish outfits were all sourced of the incredible Vinted which can be fantastic for sourcing wedding outfits and accessories and keeping costs down.The flowers were by the very local and sustainable florist, Moth Florist from Exeter and they looked gorgeous and added a pop of colour.
Thinking about your own Dartmoor elopement?
If Sophie and Andy’s story has inspired you, Dartmoor could be the perfect place for your own adventure elopement. Whether you’re drawn to its rugged tors, hidden valleys, or ancient landmarks, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. With years of experience photographing in Devon and planning elopements, I can help you find the perfect location, recommend accommodation, celebrants, florists, MUA’s and hairdressers and ensure you’re prepared for Dartmoor’s unique terrain and weather.
If you’re ready to start planning your own wild and heartfelt elopement on Dartmoor, let’s chat. Whether it’s just the two of you, or you’re bringing your little ones and furry friends along for the adventure, I’d love to capture your story in this truly magical place.
