Exmoor, located in southwestern England, is a captivating region known for its diverse landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking tranquillity, Exmoor has something to offer everyone. Let’s delve into the highlights of this stunning area!
Moorland and Coastline
Exmoor’s moorland is a defining feature. Picture vast expanses of heather-clad hills, rugged cliffs, and rolling greenery. The moors burst into colour in summer, creating a picturesque backdrop for hikers and photographers. Take advantage of the breathtaking views from Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor’s highest point.
The coastline is equally enchanting. Explore hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches—the South West Coast Path winds along the shore, offering unforgettable vistas. Watch for wildlife—Exmoor ponies, red deer, and seabirds call this place home.
Farmers Markets
Visit local farmers’ markets to sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade treats. The bustling stalls are a feast for the senses, and you’ll discover unique flavours that reflect Exmoor’s character. The Dulverton Farmers Market is highly recommended, held on the last Saturday of every month from May to September.
Water Adventures
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing—Exmoor’s rivers and lakes invite water enthusiasts. Wimbleball Lake is a popular spot for water sports, surrounded by wooded hills and picnic areas.
Events
Exmoor hosts various events throughout the year. Check the local Exmoor events calendar for:
- Festivals: Exmoor celebrates its culture with lively music and food festivals.
- Outdoor Concerts: Imagine listening to live music amid the moorland or by the sea.
- Nature Walks: Join guided walks to learn about Exmoor’s flora, fauna, and history.
Exmoor Ponies
Exmoor ponies are a fascinating part of the landscape in southwestern England. Here’s what you need to know about these hardy and ancient native ponies. Exmoor ponies have a distinctive appearance—their colour ranges from dun (a smokey-brown) to bay (red-brown) or dark brown. Underparts, the area around the eyes, and the nose are a mealy buff, while the mane, tail, and points are dark brown or black.
Exmoor ponies grow a thick, two-layered protective coat in winter to withstand the harsh weather. They thrive on low-quality moorland grazing. They are well-adapted to the rugged terrain and roam freely on Exmoor. Around twenty different herds graze the rough pasture, with some owned by the National Park. Visitors should remember to close gates when exploring the moor, as many commons share boundaries.
Foals are born in spring and early summer. During summer, they run with their mothers (dams) and build fat stores for the winter. In autumn, the herds are driven to farms for inspection and micro-chipping. Foals are either sold or returned to the moor for winter.
The Exmoor pony is Britain’s oldest native breed, but it’s currently listed as an endangered rare breed. Approximately 3,500 Exmoor ponies survive worldwide, with around 350 still living free on Exmoor.
The Moorland Mousie Trust, based at the Exmoor Pony Centre, promotes and protects these special ponies12. Remember, when driving on Exmoor, be cautious of ponies—especially in open moorland areas. Keep your speed down, and never try to feed or touch them. These ponies are a living part of Exmoor’s history and natural beauty!
North Devon Beaches
North Devon, located in the southwest of England, is renowned for its stunning coastline, which features some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the UK. This region is a haven for beach lovers, offering everything from long stretches of golden sand to hidden coves and dramatic cliffs.
Woolacombe Beach
One of the most famous beaches in North Devon is Woolacombe Beach. This award-winning beach stretches for three miles and is known for its golden sands and excellent surfing conditions. Woolacombe is a family-friendly beach with plenty of amenities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists. The beach is dog-friendly, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the sand and sea.
Saunton Sands
Another notable beach is Saunton Sands, characterized by its vast expanse of dunes. This beach is perfect for those who enjoy long walks and exploring the natural landscape. Saunton Sands is also a favourite spot for surfers, thanks to its consistent waves. The beach is backed by the Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which adds to its ecological significance.
Croyde Bay
Croyde Bay is another gem in North Devon’s coastal crown. Known for its picturesque scenery and excellent surfing conditions, Croyde Bay attracts surfers from all over the country. Rolling hills surround the beach and offers stunning views, making it a great spot for photography and nature walks. The village of Croyde itself is charming, with traditional thatched cottages and a friendly atmosphere.
Barricane Beach
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Barricane Beach is a must-visit. This small, rocky cove is located near Woolacombe and is famous for its unique shells carried to the beach by the Gulf Stream. Barricane Beach is a great span, excellent rock pooling and exploring marine life.
Westward Ho! Beach
Westward Ho! Beach is another popular destination, especially for families. This long, sandy beach faces west into Bideford Bay and is ideal for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. The beach is backed by the Northam Burrows Country Park, which offers additional opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting.
Combe Martin Beach
Combe Martin Beach is a picturesque beach in a small village of the same name. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs and offers a mix of sand and pebbles. It’s a great spot for kayaking and exploring the nearby rock pools. The village of Combe Martin is also worth exploring, with its quaint shops and historic buildings.
Lynmouth Beach
Lynmouth Beach is situated at the mouth of the East Lyn River and offers a unique blend of sand and shingle. Dramatic cliffs surround it, making it a great spot for walking and enjoying the area’s natural beauty. The nearby village of Lynmouth is known for its charming harbour and historic water-powered cliff railway.
North Devon’s beaches offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, a surfing adventure, or a peaceful nature retreat. The region’s diverse coastline, combined with its stunning natural beauty and charming villages, makes it a must-visit destination for beach lovers.
Historic Environment
Exmoor’s landscape is a living record of how people lived here in the past. From ancient settlements to historic landmarks, every stone tells a story. The rocks beneath Exmoor define its habitats and settlement patterns, shaping the land over millennia.
Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle is a former motte and bailey castle, now a country house, in the village of Dunster, Somerset, England. The castle lies on the top of a steep hill called the Tor, and has been fortified since the late Anglo-Saxon period.
After the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, William de Mohun constructed a timber castle on the site as part of the pacification of Somerset. A stone shell keep was built on the motte by the start of the 12th century, and the castle survived a siege during the early years of the Anarchy. At the end of the 14th century the de Mohuns sold the castle to the Luttrell family, who continued to occupy the property until the late 20th century.
Tarr Steps
Tarr Steps is a clapper bridge across the River Barle in Exmoor National Park, Somerset, England. It is in a national nature reserve about 2.5 miles southeast of Withypool and 4 miles northwest of Dulverton. The bridge’s listing assesses a typical clapper bridge construction as medieval in origin.
Lorna Doone Valley
Discover the Lorna Doone Valley in Exmoor, which was made famous by R.D. Blackmore in his novel “Lorna Doone”. The novel was set in this picturesque location, and fans of the story will recognize the various settings described in the book. The valley is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. Put on your walking shoes and take a stroll through the landscape that inspired R.D. Blackmore to set his novel in this beautiful area.
You can find the abandoned medieval village along Badgworthy Water, which was the fictional home of the feared “Doones”. Explore Waterslide, the waterfall where the hero John Ridd meets Lorna Doone for the first time. Enjoy wandering through the heather-covered valleys of Exmoor, the vast moorland landscapes, and the ancient woodland.
Climate Action
Exmoor takes positive action to limit climate change. Initiatives include planting new woodlands and preserving peatlands, ensuring the region thrives now and in the future.
Where to Stay in Exmoor?
Choose from cosy B&Bs, historic inns, or self-catering cottages. Many accommodations offer stunning views and warm hospitality—book in advance, especially during peak seasons. We have put together some top Exmoor accommodation suggestions here.
Why Visit Exmoor?
Exmoor is a place to rejuvenate your spirit, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. Whether hiking the trails, savouring local delicacies, or simply breathing in the fresh air, Exmoor will leave an indelible mark on your heart. We’ve only just scratched the surface on this page; there’s simply so much to do and explore. Check out some more recommendations and websites below that will help you plan the perfect day out!
- Dulverton Heritage Centre
- Visit North Devon
- Visit Lynton & Lynmouth
- Valley of the Rocks (Lynton & Lynmouth)
- Visit Exmoor
- Visit England – Exmoor
- TripAdvisor – Things To Do In Exmoor
- Latest Events In Exmoor – Exmoor National Park
- Red Stag Safari Exmoor
- Exmoor Distillery Tours
- Cleeve Abbey
- Knighthayes Court
- Dartmoor National Park
- Quince Honey Farm, South Molton
Embark
ON A HIKING
adventure and explore the beauty of nature’s besT
…IN EXMOOR.
