If you’re wondering what to do in Exmoor National Park, prepare for dramatic coastlines, rolling moors and plenty of postcard-perfect villages. On my recent trip, I was overwhelmed by the scale of the landscapes and the range of things to do — from cream teas and heritage railways to panoramic viewpoints and wild ponies.
Dotted among the great rolling hills are many quintessential country towns, dramatic viewpoints and stunning landmarks inherited by the National Trust. With a few days to spare, you could easily explore the best of Exmoor’s adventurous lands but be prepared for the longing to return.
Here are the best places to visit in Exmoor.
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What to do (and see) in Exmoor National Park
1. Have a classic British afternoon at Kitnors Tea Room and Gardens
In the tiny town of Bossington, Kitnors Tea Room and Gardens is a summer favourite, offering homemade baked goods and light lunches to neighbours and those lucky enough to find it. Using local produce cooked up in a 15th century thatched cottage, it has served cream teas for over 50 years in its beautifully kept lush garden… a perfect stop off after exploring Bossington Beach and the surrounding countryside.
2. Explore the gardens of Dunster Castle
The ancient Dunster Castle is an obvious sight to include in your Exmoor plans, however make sure to leave time to explore the surrounding gardens that spiral up to the towers. The sound of running water can be heard among thick nature paths, leading on towards old bridges and patches of open gardens.
If you are visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday, you can also take advantage of the historic Dunster Castle Express which steams ahead through coastal views on to Dunster Station.
3. Sit on the top of Dunkery Beacon
At 519 metres above the sea, Dunkery Beacon is the highest point in Exmoor, topped with a large cairn that is perfect for perching on. Panoramic views take you from Dartmoor to Wales stretching across fields and the ocean. But don’t fear, the hike isn’t long or steep, with just a 20 minute slight uphill walk from the nearby car park.
4. Ride the Lynton/Lynmouth Railway
The famous funicular railway that connects the Cliffside towns is an unmissable experience, offering beautiful views of the coastline as you descend to the harbour town of Lynmouth below. Completely powered by water, the two cars pull each other along the cliff face, controlled by friendly guards.
5. Look out for Exmoor’s beautiful wildlife
Rich in moorlands and dense forests, Exmoor is home to a range of habitats providing a home for some of the UK’s most beloved wildlife. Otters, rare butterflies and bats can be seen among the long grass and if you’re lucky, you may even spot one of the majestic red deer who populate this part of the country.
6. Spot the Exmoor ponies
Perhaps the most exciting find among the National Park are the Exmoor ponies, commonly seen on the open moors. The ponies themselves are not completely wild – as all are owned by someone – but roam free among the park in herds. Of course be careful when approaching all wildlife and make sure to keep any gates you come across shut in order to keep the animals safe from the roads.
7. Paddle in the streams at Watersmeet
A short downward walk through thick forest to the sound of trickling water will take you to Watersmeet, a beautiful river gorge hidden from the roads and towns above. Here you’ll find a former fishing lodge serving cream teas and hot pasties to the dozens of families that flock to paddle in the flowing streams. Bring a picnic if you want to avoid the queue!
8. Drive along the Heritage Coast
The jagged cliffs that line Exmoor come together to create the Heritage Coast, a number of beaches, seaside towns and monuments along the way. Start at Combe Martin making your way to Minehead and Bossington. Slightly further East, you’ll reach Lynmouth, the Valley of the Rocks and Woody Bay, where a small beach can be found as well as dramatic views and harbours. Take a drive along the narrow winding road that follows the hilly coast but go easy… there’s not a lot between you and the tumbling cliffs!
9. Dangle on the edge of Castle Rock
The Valley of the Rock’s pièce de résistance is Castle Rock, a mammoth natural structure leaning out over the sharp drop to the ocean. An amateur path leads you to the top where the most daring can perch on the edge. I nervously bum shuffled over and refused to dangle my legs (for the fear of losing my shoes I told myself), but it was worth it for the total feeling of freedom!
10. End the day at Porlock Weir
A perfect spot to end a day in Exmoor is Porlock Weir, a small town surrounding a harbour packed with sailing and rowing boats. Overnight parking makes it a popular spot for touring caravans and the beautiful calm blue waters against the darkening sky make for a magical evening.
Looking for more things to do in Exmoor?
If you’ve ticked off the top 10 and still have time to spare, here are a few more places to visit in Exmoor…
11. Stargaze in Europe’s first Dark Sky Reserve
Exmoor is one of the best places in the UK to go stargazing, thanks to its lack of light pollution. On a clear night, you’ll be able to spot constellations, meteor showers and even the Milky Way with the naked eye. Head to designated spots like Webbers Post or Brendon Common for the best views, and bring a blanket — it gets chilly once the sun drops.
12. Visit Tarr Steps
Deep in the Exmoor woodlands lies a clapper bridge dating back to the Bronze Age. Tarr Steps stretches across the River Barle with 17 giant stone slabs that look like they’ve been placed by hand (and probably were). It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by ancient woodland, with walking trails that circle through the valley.
13. Take a dip at Wild Pear Beach
Not far from Combe Martin is Wild Pear Beach — a little cove that feels completely hidden from the world. The path down is steep and not for the faint-hearted, but the reward is a pebbled beach with turquoise waters that’s ideal for wild swimming when the tides allow. Just check tide times and bring proper shoes — it’s a bit of a scramble.
14. Browse the shops in Dulverton
If you need a break from the outdoors, Dulverton is a charming market town known as the southern gateway to Exmoor. You’ll find independent shops, traditional pubs and bakeries, and a few art galleries tucked into its winding streets. Stop for coffee and a slice of cake, or pick up a bottle of local cider to take home.
15. Take a wildlife safari on the moors
For a more in-depth way to explore the park, you can join an Exmoor wildlife safari in a 4×4 vehicle, led by expert guides who know exactly where to look. You’ll drive across the open moorland in search of red deer, birds of prey and the elusive Exmoor ponies — while learning about the park’s unique ecology along the way.
Planning your Exmoor National Park trip
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, there are endless things to do in Exmoor National Park — from wild swimming and stargazing to cosy tearooms and clifftop walks. Make sure to pack layers, check tide times if heading to the coast, and don’t forget to leave time to just enjoy the view.
For more inspiration for planning a trip to Exmoor, you can read my posts about Bossington, Selworthy and Dunster, and about the Heritage Coastline.
5 Responses
beautiful place! cute ponies:)
This looks gorgeous. I love your photography. I’ll have to ad Exmoor to our bucket list.
I also really like your instagram tiles across the top of your site. Is that a plugin or part of your theme?
Thanks Lindsay! It’s part of my theme which is one of the Pigdig ones 🙂
I used your blog a lot throughout a stay in Exmoor. Great ideas and fabulous suggestions for us and the dog
Thank you
Laura that’s so great to hear! Thank you for letting me know 🙂