‘THE end of an era’ is how the Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) has described the closure of one of its visitor centres.

From November 1, the Princetown Visitor Centre will close.

Since opening in the early 1990s, the centre has welcomed innumerable visitors, offering a warm and welcoming space to learn more about Dartmoor’s landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage.

‘We would like to thank our dedicated members of staff from across the decades for their hard work and dedication in always providing visitors with a warm Dartmoor welcome’, says the DNPA.

‘And to everyone who has taken the time to visit, chat with our team, browse the shop, and enjoy the exhibitions - thank you for being a part of this special place’, the DNPA added.

It was announced in 2024 that the centre would close the following year due to funding challenges, the DNPA saying it had seen a 40 per cent decline in funding since 2011.

The DNPA says that the decision to close ‘was not made lightly’ and that it reflected ‘the well-documented financial challenges facing England’s National Parks’.

‘We remain committed to the Princetown community and are working with the Duchy of Cornwall to help explore future options for the building’, the DNPA said.

The DNPA operate two other visitors centres at Haytor and Postbridge.