Tavistock is situated on the boundary between two distinct areas of landscape character; Dartmoor and West Devon Pasture.

Dartmoor contains the largest area of upland moorland in the south of England, the largest expanse of unglaciated upland in GB, and the largest granite surface in England. It is characterised by an austere but beautiful landscape, with wind swept tors surrounded by blanket bog and valley mires. Lower moorland slopes are often covered with an intimate mix of gorse and heather, including a few areas of lowland heath. Small enclosures become increasingly common towards the perimeter of the moor.

West Devon Pasture is characterised by generous large-scale rolling upland, strongly dissected by deeply incised river valleys. Steep valley sides are wooded or permanent pasture. Fields are bounded by well-kept hedgerows containing many species of wildflowers which are quite spectacular when flowering in May. Ridges between valleys are exposed with extensive views interrupted by hedgerow trees. Roads and lanes follow ridges and dip across valley streams. Stone bridges and mill buildings are located at crossing points.

In both areas of landscape character, native woodland, principally oakwood, dominates the sides of the major river valleys.