 |
| Valley of the Rocks. Image credit: Mr D. Healy |
Exmoor, the exquisite National Park beside the sea:
wooded river valleys, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, heather hills and sandy
beaches; sheep, red deer, ponies and wheeling buzzards; rose-covered cottages, pretty
villages and good food pubs. There’s so much to explore. Here are some of our
favourite attractions…
The Lynton
and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, which connects Lynton to
neighbouring Lynmouth, offers a unique perspective (you may have seen this
photo posted on our Facebook page). Opened on Easter Monday in 1890, the
railway has been in continuous use ever since with spectacular views of Exmoor
and the north Devon coastline as you glide up and down the 862 foot length
of track. Railway fans can also visit the nearby Lynton & Barnstaple Railway or West Somerset Railway. Alight
at F57.
For more breathtaking views, don’t
miss a walk or drive through the Valley of the Rocks on Lynton’s edge or a climb
up to Dunkery
Beacon (Exmoor’s highest hill) overlooking stunning Porlock Vale. In early
spring, a stroll through Snowdrop Valley near Wheddon
Cross is lovely. Put your feet up at F101.
 |
| Dunster Castle (Image from http://bit.ly/PgJmov) |
Not many villages can lay claim to an imposing castle.
Dating back to the 11th century (Norman times), Dunster Castle boasts
sub-tropical gardens and superb views toward the Bristol channel, the Quantock
hills and up to the moors. The agricultural
show on the castle lawns and ‘Dunster by Candlelight’ are both
super events to catch.
A warm welcome awaits at F45.
Inland, in the beautiful river Barle valley, you’ll find the
tiny town of Dulverton (popular with artists) and nearby, the ancient clapper
bridge at Tarr
Steps. This is one of the oldest things you’ll ever lay eyes (let alone
feet) on: the bridge possibly dates to around 1000BC. The stone slabs weigh up
to one to two tons apiece and span 180 feet (55m) across the river. Hop
over to F10.
You’ll find a number of family-friendly wildlife attractions
on Exmoor too. The Exmoor
Owl & Hawk Centre offers the opportunity to interact with birds of prey
in a safe environment. As well as owls and hawks, the centre has eagles,
kookaburra and palm nut vultures.
Make your nest at F32.
Browse our holiday
cottages in Exmoor to find the perfect base from which to explore.
We’ll be taking a look at the wealth of outdoor activities on offer in Exmoor
in a future blog.
