Exmoor is one of North Devon’s greatest treasures, a landscape where rolling moorland meets dramatic cliffs, ancient woodlands blend into peaceful valleys, and every winding path promises a new discovery. Covering a vast stretch of North Devon and West Somerset, Exmoor National Park is a place where nature thrives, history whispers through the hills, and outdoor adventures come with a side of breathtaking scenery.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in wild, unspoiled landscapes and escape the bustle of everyday life, exploring Exmoor is an experience you won’t forget.
Wild Moorland and Rugged Coastlines
Exmoor’s iconic moorland is a sight to behold. Vast expanses of open heath, covered in purple heather and golden gorse, create a striking contrast against the deep greens of the wooded valleys below. Walking across these high, windswept plateaus offers a sense of freedom and space that’s hard to find elsewhere. From here, the land seems to fall away into the sea, as Exmoor’s dramatic coastline reveals itself with towering cliffs and secluded coves.
One of the most rewarding experiences is standing atop a clifftop and gazing out over the Bristol Channel, where, on a clear day, you can see across to South Wales. The South West Coast Path weaves its way along these rugged edges, offering challenging but unforgettable hikes with panoramic views.
Ancient Woodlands and Hidden Valleys
While the open moors are Exmoor’s crown jewel, the park is also home to ancient woodlands that feel almost enchanted. These wooded areas, with their moss-covered trees, babbling streams, and dappled sunlight, provide a completely different atmosphere. Walking through these forests is like stepping into a storybook, where every twist in the path could reveal a hidden waterfall or a glimpse of wildlife.
Tucked between the hills are secret valleys, known locally as combes, where peaceful rivers meander through lush greenery. These sheltered spots offer quiet respite and are perfect for gentle walks, picnics, or simply soaking up the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.
Wildlife Encounters and Dark Skies
Exmoor is a haven for wildlife, and exploring its varied habitats gives visitors the chance to encounter some of the UK’s most iconic species. The Exmoor pony, with its sturdy build and gentle nature, roams freely across the moorland, a living symbol of the region’s wild heritage. Red deer, Britain’s largest native land mammal, can often be spotted in the early morning or evening, especially during autumn when their dramatic rutting displays take place.
Above, the skies are home to buzzards, kestrels, and the occasional soaring peregrine falcon. At night, Exmoor transforms into one of the best stargazing locations in Europe. As the first International Dark Sky Reserve in the country, the park offers clear, unpolluted views of the night sky, with countless stars, planets, and even the Milky Way visible to the naked eye.
A Journey Through Time and Nature
Exploring Exmoor isn’t just about stunning scenery. The landscape is steeped in history, with ancient stone circles, Iron Age hillforts, and medieval bridges telling the story of those who have lived and worked here for centuries. Each village, each winding lane, and each remote corner has a tale to tell, whether it’s of folklore, farming, or resilience against the elements.
Every visit to Exmoor feels like a journey both through nature and time. It’s a place where you can challenge yourself with a hike to a windswept summit or find peace by sitting quietly beside a woodland stream. It invites slow exploration, rewarding those who take the time to look beyond the obvious and truly connect with the landscape.
Explore Exmoor, Embrace the Wild
In a world that moves too fast, Exmoor offers space to breathe, explore, and reconnect with the wild. Whether you come for the far-reaching views, the wildlife encounters, the quiet woodlands, or simply the chance to walk without a deadline, Exmoor welcomes you with open arms and endless horizons.
For those seeking authentic, untouched beauty, exploring Exmoor is not just a day out—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left the moor behind.