Explore exquisite Exmoor…

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.

Forget camping: go 'gramping'…

We’ve noticed a new trend this year. It seems that many more holidaymakers are making multigenerational bookings for their summer holidays.

Research (for www.mumsnet.com) has shown that 75% of families with young children are going 'gramping' in 2011. As families pull together to support each other, practically and financially, grandchildren can benefit tremendously - sharing meals with the extended family, spending quiet time with Granny, or going fishing with Gramps. Meanwhile, Mum and Dad gain some much needed 'time out' and the chance to spend some quality time with their parents. Holidaying in larger groups can also bring down the cost per person too.

Sound appealing? If so, Helpful Holidays has 65 holiday homes, sleeping eight or more, currently available to book this August, all suitable for some top class ‘gramping’! Here are a couple of examples…

A mile from Raddington, just south of Exmoor National Park, is The Granary, a handsome, south-facing, detached house with lovely long views over peaceful countryside. It has been created from an 18th century granary with flair, style and an eye to detail. Inside there’s a large living room, with plenty of space for everyone to sit – and there’s even a piano for family sing-alongs. Outside, you’ll find 60 acres of countryside with unrestricted walking. There’s also a 70 foot long games barn with table tennis and darts – perfect for family tournaments. You can save 25% during August, so it’s just £137 per person per week when eight share.

Or how about spoiling yourselves with a 5 star retreat? About a mile inland from Branscombe, one of the prettiest villages on the south coast, is fabulous Edge House, a beautifully built, detached, New England-style property. Everything in this house is on a grand scale with spacious interiors and expansive views. It also has that all important games room with pool table and table tennis for some competitive play. There are five bedrooms, all with their own TV, so everyone can disappear for their own private time if needed! Nearby, the Donkey Sanctuary makes for a fun and worthwhile visit, as does Pecorama with its famous modern railway exhibition – great for kids and just as interesting for Dad and Grandad! During August, it’s £238 per person per week based on nine sharing.

We’ve lots of larger holiday cottages suitable for ‘gramping’ so email us on help@helpfulholidays.com or call on 01647 433593 if you need help finding just the right place for a memorable family holiday.

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