Exmoor

Easily accessible from a variety of Devon towns, Exmoor’s wild and diverse landscape suggests an area far more remote. Rocky headlands, high coastal cliffs, soft green valleys, wooded hills and fresh cold rivers and streams all abound in a relatively small area and are waiting to be discovered.

Never a dull moment

Walking is the top activity on Exmoor and it’s not hard to see why. Follow one of the vertiginous coastal paths, meander along a shady tree-lined valley or clamber up steep-sided hills for the reward of a stunning view when you get to the top. From long-distance routes, to gentle strolls, there’s no excuse not to get outside. And for those who prefer a little more adrenalin-fuelled fun, there’s mountain bikingriding, kayaking, coasteering wild swimming and climbing to enjoy.

Iconic ponies 

You don’t need to go too far to come across the famous Exmoor Pony, and there’s nothing quite like seeing these hardy horses in their own natural habitat. Out in all weathers, this ancient breed were even mentioned in the Domesday book! Look for them up on the open moorland.

Home to half the Red Deer in England, you’d think the other famous natives would be easy to spot on Exmoor. Unfortunately not. However, with patience and good binoculars you might be lucky, particularly in the autumn. Lovers of wildlife flock to Exmoor and here you’ll find a wide diversity of flora and fauna, depending on the season. Pop in to an Exmoor National Park Centre to discover what to look for and where.

Scattered with small villages, Exmoor has a picturesque charm. The twin delights of Lynton and Lynmouth, linked by a Victorian, water-powered Cliff Railway, are often referred to as ‘Little Switzerland’ due to their scenic beauty and dramatic topography. Just along from Lynton you’ll find the other-worldly beauty of Valley of Rocks. On a stormy day its jagged rocks are stark and thrilling against the sky and sea. A great place for a picnic, and in the summer there is often an outdoor theatre event.

Look out for local shops, farmers marketscafes and restaurants selling local Exmoor produce. From Gin and Cider to fresh oysters, red Ruby Devon beef, venison, ice-cream, jam and cheese you’re sure to enjoy a taste of Exmoor.

Europe's first Dark Sky Reserve

And as the sun sets, the stars come out. There’s a reason Exmoor was the first Dark Sky Reserve in Europe. With very little light pollution it’s amazing what the naked eye can see. Just let your eyes adjust to the dark for ten minutes and the secrets of the celestial sky will be revealed. 

Here on Exmoor, you really can escape the everyday. The sheer drama and loveliness of our landscape often belies description, so come and visit Exmoor and see for yourself.

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What’s on in Exmoor this month

  • 2 minute read

The Exmoor National Park is a beautiful place to visit, especially in the spring when you have the new pony foals staggering around and the new spring colours popping up across the heathland and the coastal paths. If you’re planning a trip to Exmoor in March, here are our top tips for events to…

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Things to do on Exmoor this year

  • 3 minute read

Thinking of spending some time exploring the Exmoor National Park this year? Here are some of the things you can expect to do while out and about on Exmoor. Go stargazing The Exmoor National Park forms part of a Dark Skies Reserve, it was actually the first one in Europe and continues to have some…

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Stargazing in North Devon

  • 3 minute read

Did you know that North Devon is home to the UK’s first surf reserve? Yes? Ok, well did you also know that it was not only the UK’s first Dark Skies Reserve, but Europe’s too? Dark Skies Reserves are places with low levels of light pollution that are protected so that we can enjoy the beauty of the…

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Countdown begins to Exmoor Dark Skies Festival

  • 2 minute read

This annual festival which celebrates Exmoor as a Dark Skies Reserve, will be kicking off on 13 th October and running through to 29 th with a series of over 60 events for all ages. The festival will kick off in Tiverton on 13 th October with an astronomy lecture about galaxies, stars, black holes and…

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Where to stay for a literary break in North Devon

  • 4 minute read

North Devon is one of the most romantic and inspiring places in the UK. Over the years it has provided the backdrop for epic novels like Lorna Doone and for a time, was a home from home for the great romantic poets of the time like Wordsworth and Shelley. You can find evidence of their time in the…

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