The North Devon and Exmoor area is known as England’s Adventure Coast – so why not have an adventure yourself this summer by visiting Exmoor?
Full of beautiful coastline, wild countryside and those iconic Exmoor ponies, Exmoor is a hub of adventure this summer, so don’t miss out!
Interested in spending some time in Exmoor? Here are our suggestions of things to do.
- Go to the beach
Did you know that Exmoor has the highest coastline in England and Wales? It also has some amazing beaches, including sandy ones, like the one in Combe Martin and rocky ones, like at Heddon Valley!
Local beaches to visit include: Combe Martin Beach, Dunster beach, Hele Bay, Ilfracombe Beach, Kilve Beach Lee Bay, Lynmouth Beach, Minehead Beach, Porlock Beach, Watermouth Cove, Wringcliff Bay - Go Rockpooling
Speaking of rocky beaches, they are perfect for rockpooling! Combe Martin Beach in particular is great for rockpooling, just remember to return everyone where you found them! - Go surfing
Did you know parts of Exmoor fall within the UK’s first surf reserve? Though the beaches of Exmoor are better suited to more confident surfers, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the waves - Ride the Cliff Railway
Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and has been running since 1888! It is the world’s highest and steepest fully powered railway and is a great way to see some of the views that Exmoor has to offer!
Image: Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway - See how many ponies you can spot
Exmoor is home to the iconic Exmoor Pony, the oldest native breed in Britain. Currently, they are an endangered rare breed, but you’ll be able to spot them while visiting Exmoor. Just remember they are wild creatures, so don’t get too close! - Enjoy a walk
The South West Coast Path covers parts of Exmoor, particularly around Lynton, Lynmouth and the Valley of Rocks – this incredibly beautiful walking route is very popular and is also home to a herd of mountain goats! - Visit Watersmeet
This is where the east Lyn and Hoar Oak Water meet – hence the name! You’ll find it near Lynmouth and it is now managed by the National Trust. As well as being very picturesque, there are some lovely walking routes and picnic spots here. - Go stargazing
Did you know Exmoor is a UK Dark Skies Reserve? That means there is very little light pollution, so you can easily see the stars with the naked eye. In the autumn, there is an annual Dark Skies Festival, but in the summer, you just need a clear night.
- Have a picnic at Whistlandpound Reservoir
Another picturesque place to stop for a picnic, the reservoir is a haven for wildlife and has some lovely walking routes. There are two main paths to explore and plenty of wild and plant life to see along the way, including orchids. - See some wild animals
While you’re likely to see wild animals while out and about on Exmoor, you can guarantee an encounter by visiting Exmoor Zoo or Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park, where you can see some exotic and endangered creatures! - Have a romantic adventure
Exmoor has long served as inspiration to romantic poets and writers – Lorna Doone, the romantic epic is based around the Exmoor area, giving you plenty of romantic-looking places to explore. Similarly, Kipling Tor is named for Rudyard Kipling, the author of the Jungle Book and you’ll find lots of references to the great romantic poets here. - Enjoy some nostalgia
Exmoor is a great place for enjoying some history and culture, in Combe Martin you’ll find a building inspired by a pack of playing cards and elsewhere, there is Arlington Court. Managed by the National Trust, Arlington Court is a stately home and carriage museum and is free for members to visit. Over the summer, they are holding their Summer of Play, with a host of extra activities for the whole family!
Convinced to visit Exmoor this summer? Then you’ll need somewhere to stay! You can find a host of options here.