With its diverse landscape full of coastal paths, moorland, woodland and farmland, you never have the same experience twice on a visit to the Exmoor National Park. Its diversity is part of its charm and there is always something new to see, even if you’ve been one hundred times before. This summer, with more people choosing a staycation rather than venturing abroad, we thought we’d tell you our five top reasons why you should visit Exmoor this summer.

Exmoor’s Dark Skies

Did you know that Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve? Well, not only is it one, but it was one of the first to be named in the UK. Because of the lack of light pollution in the Exmoor region, on a clear night, the skies above the park are stunning.

Every year the team that look after the National Park run a series of Dark Skies-related events so you can really experience the beauty of the starscape.

The landscape

It isn’t just the sky that is breathtaking on Exmoor, the land is pretty stunning too. From coast to moorland to woodland to rock faces, you won’t find a dull view here. One of our favourite spots is the Valley of the Rocks, which inspired a number of the great romantic poets – it isn’t hard to see why!

There are 37 miles of coast

Yes, 37!
While you might think of Exmoor as being mostly green, it has plenty of coast to explore, it actually has one of the highest sections of the English coast, so you have an amazing vantage point when enjoying those sea views.

The wildlife

Exmoor is perhaps most well known for its iconic ponies and you’ll find them all over the moor. Just remember, while they aren’t technically wild (they are owned by various land owners) they also aren’t tame, so make sure to enjoy them from a distance!

As well as being home to the Exmoor Pony, there are also herds of wild mountain goats and red deer to be seen, as well as birds of prey! If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some of the region’s marine life while exploring the coastal areas!

It is home to England’s tallest tree!

On the outskirts of Dunster is a place called Nutcombe Bottom where you can find England’s tallest recorded tree. It has been growing in the area since 1876 and when it was last measured, it stood at 60m tall! If you want to visit it, make sure to pick up a copy of the Tall Trees Trail and follow the map, the trail is smooth and level and is even suitable for those using mobility aids, so everyone can experience it.

Not yet convinced to visit Exmoor this summer? You can find out more about the region here.