Dartmoor National Park Authority has acquired Buckfastleigh Moor, following a successful funding bid. The purchase brings 858 acres of common land here under the management of the authority, ensuring, they say, its long-term protection.

The area runs southeast from Ryder's Hill, the highest point in southern Dartmoor, incorporating Snowdon [not that one - Ed] and Puper's Hill. Subject to commons grazing rights, Buckfastleigh Moor contains upland heathland, blanket bog, species rich valleys, natural springs and significant archaeological features. As well as sections of the Two Moors Way and Abbot's Way, it includes rivers such as the Mardle and Dean Burn – already identified as priority areas for reducing flood risk.

In November 2023, Defra announced additional funding available for Protected Landscape teams to bid for, to improve the water environment and in recognition of the role National Parks and National Landscapes have in restoring nature. This funding paid for the Buckfastleigh Moor purchase in full.

Authority Chair Pamela Woods said: "We're delighted to bring this special part of Dartmoor into our care, so it remains protected for public benefit, farming and nature. 

"With the essential support of commoners, we look forward to delivering the aspirations in Dartmoor's Partnership Plan so our unique National Park can be enjoyed by everyone in years to come."

The acquisition adjoins Holne Moor, part of which the Authority already owns. Connecting the two areas encourages wildlife to spread, they say, while the grazing rights provide opportunities to work with local commoners on long-term management plans.

Buckfastleigh Moor's national and international importance for ecology is reflected in its designations as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It contains a range of grass species and trees include hawthorn, rowan and oak. These habitats support species such as the bilberry bumblebee and pearl-bordered fritillary as well as birds including whinchats, cuckoos and reed bunting.

Rich in archaeology, the area boasts cairns, tin workings, Bronze Age reaves and former field boundaries. On Ryder's Hill stands Petre's Bound Stone, which can be traced back to 1240 when King Henry III and 12 of his knights completed the first perambulation of the Royal Forest's boundaries.

As in all UK National Parks, land in Dartmoor is owned or managed by many different entities and individuals. In addition to Buckfastleigh Moor, the Authority itself owns land at Holne Moor, Haytor Down, Wray Cleave near Moretonhampstead and Hawn and Dendles near Cornwood.