Stayed a night a couple of years ago, I think it was April/May - nobody else there. We were giving the dug her first night in a tent, she wouldn't stop barking and set the farm dugs off so we gave up and let her sleep in the car.
Facilities were adequate but basic. There were ponies and dugs wandering around the camping field - all very laid back and friendly. It was dry when I was there, ground's a bit lumpy but plenty of decent pitches to choose from if it's quiet.
Nearest pub's the one in Postbridge and the Warren House but worth checking their Winter opening hours.
Have just spent the bank holiday weekend at Runnage Farm. Will not be returning. If you have a family size tent it is extremely difficult to pitch on the uneven ground. O.K the ground was very wet which is beyond their control but the facilities are extremely poor, very few toilets and showers which sometimes worked but more often than not poor flow rate and cold. The washing up facilities were outdoors, no shelter and consisted of two sinks with cold water only, draining out across the farmyard having soaked your feet. We appreciated it is a working farm but the scrap metal and junk lying about hardly lends itself to the ambience of the National Park. No pride appears to be kept in the place. Overflowing rubbish bins. I would not recommend this place to my worst enemy. Had we not been with a group who had booked this site we would have taken one look and left.
early this year my lad and I chose the wettest imaginable week to be out on Dartmoor, so bolted to Postbridge for a bunkhouse. I knew there were two, possibly three, there.
We were drawn mysteriously to the Feathers pub and their bunkhouse. Not the best choice as it turned out. Too late for food in the bar we used the kitchen in the bunkhouse. Let's say it could have been cleaner. And I'm not that fussy.
The bunks were only 5'9" long I swear. I,m 5'10" and couldn't straighten my legs.
Next day we found the Fox Tor cafe two doors down. Great breakfast - nice people - GOOD bunkhouse.
Just returned from Runnage Farm after spending two days there with an eight and a six year old. The set-up is pretty basic but that's how we like it and it is a working farm in the heart of Dartmoor and the toilet/shower block was clean and the family friendly. The camping field was uneven but there was no problem pitching our 6 man tent. Open fires were allowed and the stream and woods in the field were perfect for the kids to explore while the adults relaxed. It was also quiet after 10.00pm. I'd definitely return.
Jon - of course I did! Senility is a wonderous thing.
I wonder if my warnings are still valid - I know the FoxTor Caff was as good as ever back in March this year. The Feathers might have improved but I'll not be trying to find out.
If you're looking to stay on Dartmoor and fancy a bit more comfort there are some great holiday cottages which start to get very cheap at this time of year.
This place in Lustleigh on the SE edge of Dartmoor is nice and the pub is only 350 yards away. http://www.lustleighholiday.co.uk
I should add that I might have a vested in interest
I stayed here I May 2010 whilst on an expedition. We found the facilities to be clean and modern although the field was a little bit uneven. Washing up was OK, but no shelter. Admittedly, we were there quite early in the season so it may get a bit dirty and worn throughout the year.
There was no sign of the owners and, according to one of the teachers on the expedition, it's usually that way so I can understand why you've not heard from them.
