If you’re spending some time on the North Devon coast this summer, why not opt for a change of scenery and enjoy a couple of walks around Exmoor? The National Park is beautiful whatever the season, but at this time of year, there are some beautiful colours among the wild flowers and you often find a refreshing sea breeze coming in off the coast.
Here are some of our favourite Exmoor walks to give you some inspiration for your North Devon breaks this summer.
Watersmeet, Lynton and Lynmouth
Watersmeet has some lovely paths and trails to explore and being managed by the National Trust, there is also a tearoom perfect for some refreshments and a car park should you want to call in on your journey.
Valley of the Rocks
While we’re in the Lynton area, we can’t not mention Valley of the Rocks. The dramatic landscape and beautiful sea views are just one reason why these trails are featured on this list. The herds of wild mountain goats are also delightful and you can often see some of the younger goats in the herd at this time of year.
Gallox Bridge
At the Somerset end of the Exmoor National Park, this starting point will give you plenty of options for a leisurely walk, including a wander through the Dunster Deer Park and the Dunster Crown Estate.
County Gate
Stradling both Somerset and Devon, you can enjoy both open moorland and sea views here and plenty of paths giving you access to beautiful wildflowers.
Dunkery Hill
If you fancy a bit of a challenge, give this walk a go. The trail will take you up to Dunkery Beacon, which is the highest point in the south of England outside of Dartmoor. There is a car park at Dunkery Gate and the way is sign posted.
Wimbleball Lake
A lovely place to go for picnics and sight-seeing, Wimbleball Lake has loads of footpaths and tracks for you to explore.
Badgworthy Water
If you love the novel Lorna Doone, one of the most epic, romance novels in English Literature, this is the walk for you as the book is set around this area of Exmoor.
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