Places To Eat

The Crown Hotel, Exford, Somerset

This 17th century coaching inn is just what you'd expect from a village pub in the heart of Exmoor National Park; with heaps of rustic character and a friendly atmosphere it's a good one to stop by for a pint of the local brew after a walk on the moor. Book for tasty home cooked food made using as much local produce as possible.Pan fried sea bass, Confit of duck leg with butter bean cassoulet, South West beef and Exmoor ale pie? Yes please. 

T: 01643 831554

The Exmoor White Horse Inn, Exford, Somerset

This 16th century creeper clad pub is right by the bridge in Exford. Now that's a lovely spot to sit with a nice cold pint or a cream tea in the summer! Good food, all home cooked, local produce a plenty - Rosemary and garlic roasted duck breast, Slow roasted belly of pork, Exmoor venison tenderloin, Poachers pie. Walks and Land Rover Safaris from the pub. 

T: 01643 831229   

The Royal Oak, Withypool, Minehead, Somerset

A charming country pub in a charming Exmoor village; sit by the log fire in the colder months, sit outside and make the most of the outdoor bar in the summer sunshine. Good beer, good wine and good food from a seasonal menu that showcases the abundance of local produce in this part of Somerset. Venison sausages, Game Pie, Pan fried sea bass, and a jolly splendid afternoon tea with Prosecco.

T: 01643 831506

Withypool Tea Rooms, Withypool, Exmoor, Somerset

This charming little tea room is right in the middle of the tiny village of Withypool, just a stone’s throw from the six arch stone bridge over the River Barle. Sit outside in the sunshine and tuck into a freshly made baguette, a pasty or a cream tea, admire the 1950’s petrol station and the glorious views of the Exmoor hills. It’s like a step back in time.

T: 01643 831279   

The Ship Inn, Porlock, Somerset

This is one of the oldest inns on the whole of Exmoor, and the setting in the peaceful village of Porlock is lovely. It gets busy in the summer and is bustling with people dining inside or sitting outside where there's a play area for the children. The hospitality is excellent and the food is tasty home cooked fare. Come here after a walk with the dog in the winter and find a cosy spot by the fire.

T: 01643 862507

Rest & Be Thankful Inn, Wheddon Cross, Somerset

A traditional and relaxed inn, in the highest village on Exmoor. A cosy and welcoming atmosphere and a menu of classic pub fare with more fancy dishes on the evening menu. If you're out exploring around Dunster and Dulverton give it a try.

T: 01642 841222

Tarr Farm Inn, Dulverton, Somerset

This former farmhouse stands in the most wonderful location on a hillside just up the lane from Tarr Steps, so sometimes, when you sit outside on a quiet day all you can hear is the river burbling on and the birdsong. It's a lovely old place that was named as one of the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK in 2107; that speaks volumes for the food, but it's good to go to whether it's just for a drink out on the terrace, for lunch or for dinner. Be warned though, it can get very busy in the summer.

T: 01643 851507

Kitnor’s Tea Rooms and Garden, Bossington, Somerset

An absolute gem tucked away down winding narrow lanes in the Exmoor village of Bossington. You'd be hard pushed to find a more relaxing place on a warm day for lunch or tea, and they're busy at it here, making scones and cakes early each morning. All the food is homemade in fact and ingredients generally come from just a few miles away; they even have their own blend of tea perfected to work in harmony with the water. Idyllic.

T: 01643 862643

Woods Bar & Restaurant, Dulverton, Somerset

Award-winning Woods Wine Bar & Restaurant has always been popular, which comes as no surprise as the welcome is warm and the atmosphere is lovely and cosy with hand-built rustic interiors, beams, wood panelling and a log fire in the winter. Food is excellent, traditional dining with a continental twist, backed up by a very impressive wine list. Ingredients are, wherever possible, sourced locally, with some of the meat from animals raised and grazed on teh owner's farm in the Exmoor hills.

T: 01398 324007

Raleghs Cross Inn, Brendon Hill, Exmoor, Somerset

A big country inn where the Sunday carvery is very popular - not just with people exploring the hills of Exmoor but also with locals. There's a pub classics menu too, so you should find something for all palates. The atmosphere is lively and friendly.

T: 01984 640343

Exmoor Wildlife Safaris, Exford, Minehead, Somerset

See the hidden parts of Exmoor on a 4x4 Wildlife Safari with guides who know the national park like the back of their hand. Spot Exmoor ponies and red deer grazing, see rare butterflies and the myriad birdlife. Get well off the beaten track and deep into the wilds, taking in historic sites, fast flowing rivers, steep wooded hillsides and bracken clad moors. Book tours for 3 hours, half days or full days, or a summer evening trip by prior arrangement.

T: 07977 571494

North Devon Hawk Walks, Withypool, Minehead, Somerset

Ever fancied trying your hand (excuse the pun) at falconry, inspired by the likes of Game of Thrones and Assassin's Creed? That's what this is all about - a wonderful falconry experience where you learn to send the bird away, get her to come back to you and feed her on your hand. There are various length walks for up to 4 people and they can even bring the birds to private parties. Have your camera ready.

T: 01598 740114

Exmoor Adventures, Porlock Weir, Minehead, Somerset

Outdoor pursuits with qualified instructors in the spectacular scenery of Exmoor National Park, although Exmoor Adventures also cover the Quantock Hills and North Devon. Choose from mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, stand-up paddle boarding, raft building, coasteering, orienteering and tree climbing. Whoops and shrieks all round, great fun for families, hen parties and corporate groups. Bike hire too!

T: 07976 208279

Burrowhayes Farm Horse & Pony Hire, West Luccombe, Minehead, Somerset

Escorted rides for all abilities taking in the sights and scenery of Exmoor National Park, without a doubt one of the best ways to see the moors. Trek up to Dunkery Beacon and Ley Hill, and around the picturesque chocolate-box village of Selworthy. Treks are 1 to 3 hours long, depending on experience and younger children can walk and lead smaller ponies.

T:  01643 862463

West Anstey Farm Stables, Dulverton, Somerset

1-2 hour lessons startng from this family run riding farm near Dulverton. What really appeals is that there's no road riding at all - you're straight out into the beautiful landscape of Exmoor National Park. They have horses and ponies for all abilities and can cater for most shapes and sizes, with Shetlands for toddlers. Open year round.

T: 01398 341354

Channel Adventure, Minehead, Somerset

Heaps of fun and adventure right on the seafront at Minehead, with a choice of activities for families, hen parties, and corporate groups. What will it be? Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, coasteering, tree climbing, archery, bushcraft...? They have all the top notch equipment and qualified instructors - just make sure you've got suitable shoes, something comfy to wear under a wetsuit, and a towel. 

T: 01643 708715

Wimbleball Lake, Brompton Regis, Somerset

This will appeal to nature lovers and those with a sense of adventure. You can go windsurfing, kneeboarding and raft building on the waters, play on high ropes and test your skills at archery, or build dens in the woodlands. There are nature trails and cycle tracks, a play area and heaps of space to run around and let off steam - and the quirky Duck Cafe for good home cooked food. A great place for star gazing.

T: 01398 371460 

Rock and Rapid Adventure Centre, South Molton, Devon

Grab yourselves a whole lot of fun at Rock and Rapid where you can choose from abseiling and low ropes, a climbing wall, coasteering, a mobile climbing wall, outdoor climbing and watersports. Exciting opportunities for families, groups of friends and corporate team bulding days.

T: 01769 309003

OSKC Watersports, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, Devon

Head over to Ilfracombe and hire kayaks and stand up paddle boards to play on the waters, or book lessons with very experienced instructors amidst the truly awesome scenery of the North Devon coast. Explore coves and secluded beaches, opt for kayak guided tours, or, something that's proving to be very popular, kayak steering - a mix of kayaking and coasteering - one for the adrenalin seekers. Tremendous fun for groups and families.

T: 07976 555004

Keypitts Offroad Adventures, Ilfracombe, Devon

Quad biking, 4x4 Landrover Experiences, Battlezone Archery and Axe Throwing in the beautiful surroundings of the North Devon countryside. Brilliant fun for families, hen parties and corporate groups looking for exciting team building activities. Booking essential, check the website re age restrictions and what's supplied and what's not, and what to wear.

T:  07446 078190  

Easy Divers, Ilfracombe, North Devon

It's not every day you get to try something like this. At Easy Divers North Devon they offer sea and swimming pool try dives with qualified instructors for age 12+, the only criteria being that you can swim 25m in water too deep to stand in. They can also take you out snorkelling in the sea - a wonderful way to see the marine life of these waters. PADI qualified divers can go on a Lundy seal dive and get up close to seals. Great for corporate groups.

T: 07833 020424

Obsession Boat Charters, Ilfracombe, Devon

Charter a boat and take to the open sea off the beautiful North Devon coast, a fantastic experience for families and friends and a sure way to impress your corporate guests. They do fishing trips, Lundy Island diving trips, Coastal and Sunset Cruises, Dolphin & Seal Watching Trips, Team Building and Kayaking. If you're looking for adveture, you know who to call!

T: 07971 462024

Ilfracombe Coastal Cruises, Ilfracombe, North Devon

Sit back and relax on a wildlife cruise along the beautfiul North Devon coast; see seals, porpoises and dolphins, enjoy the fascinating commentary. Choose from a Smugglers Caves (1 hour), Exmoor Cliffs & Waterfalls Cruise (1.5 hours), or a Seals and Lighthouse Cruise (2 hours). Seating on the upper deck, loos and cold drinks on board. They also do rib rides and speedboat experiences. 

T: 01271 879727 or  07838 569667

Ilfracombe Sea Safari, Ilfracombe, Devon

Adventure on the North Devon coast rib riding on the Lundy Explorer or the 11 metre Pioneer, and  wildife cruises on the Sea Swift Catamaran. A fantastic opportunity to see the sights, spot dolphins and swim with seals off Lundy island. Sunset Safaris along the Exmoor Coast, fishing trips and private charter available. Rides for all ages, dogs and all, but not for those who suffer from sea sickness. Trips last 1-6 hours. 

T: 07827 679 189 or book online

Porlock Bay, Somerset

If you like quieter beaches you should come and explore this part of the Exmoor coastline that runs from Porlock Weir to Hurlestone Point; it's good for rockpools, dog walks, and for wildlife, with spoonbills and osytercatchers spotted in the grassy marshes. 

Porlock, Somerset

A charming village on the Exmoor coast, with old thatched cottages, a few small shops, an aquarium and places to eat. The backdrop is of steep wooded hills, and honestly, the whole place is just so winsome, you must go and spend a little time there.

Bossington Beach, Somerset

A pebbly beach backed by salt marshes, with a backdrop of the glorious hills of Exmoor, reached via narrow winding roads through the pretty village of Bossington. It's a half a mile walk from the car park to the beach; whilst you're here have a pot of tea Alice in Wonderland style at Kitnor's Tea Rooms just up the road.

Lynton, Devon

Lynton is set on a clifftop above the the harbour village of Lynmouth and the two are connected by the Lynton and Lynmouth cliff railway. It's a sweet little town and it's nice to have a mooch around the streets, or to stroll to the Valley of Rocks or Watersmeet then come back for a cream tea.

Lynton & Lynmouth, Devon

A peaceful harbour town on the North Devon coast with a gorgeous setting within Exmoor National Park. Wander out to the tower at the end of the quay or along the river to Watersmeet, have a ride on the Victorian cliff railway and have a bite to eat in the Pavilion Dining Room or the Riverside Restaurant.

Minehead, Somerset

Have some bucket and spade fun on this long sandy beach, go to the harbour for a boat trip, or just stroll along the promenade and soak up the sheer ambience. You can get here by steam train on the West Somerset Railway, for something a bit different, have a bite to eat or some fish and chips and pootle back through the countryside.

Blue Anchor, Somerset

A quiet spot on the Somerset coast with a backdrop of hills and fields. It's popular with families who come to play on the beach and with dog walkers; come here by steam train from Bishops Lydeard and have lunch at The Smugglers Inn or the Driftwood Cafe.

Watchet, Somerset

The beach at Watchet is a half a mile long stretch of sand and rocks by the harbour, revealed at low tide. It's great for dog walking but you'll need boots and you'll need to be aware of tide times. Watchet is a lovely little town; it's nice to get fish and chips and eat them sitting on the harbour or the esplanade

Combe Martin, Devon

Combe Martin beach tends to be quieter than the beaches further along the North Devon coast, probably because it's shingle sand and lacks the surf, but it's a good one for families, especially at low tide when more of the sand is exposed, along with rockpools and caves to explore. It's good for swimming too as the sheltered position means there aren't any strong currents. The beach is over 2 miles from the town but there are shops and loos close by. 

Wild Pear Beach, Devon

Wild Pear Beach is a peaceful little cove, sandy and rocky, naturally secluded by the cliffs and private apart from the daily passing of the pleasure boat from Ilfracombe and a distant view from the coast path. Access is via a steep path, which tends to put people off, but not the naturists so if you like bathing and swimming in the altogether, here you go.

Ilfracombe, Devon

A hot spot for surfers and families alike; wide sandy beaches and quieter bays with rockpools and smugglers caves, and the town is good for a mooch about as there's a range of shops and places where you can have a bite to eat, a quaint harbour, and a leisure park. Take the kids to the aquarium or the museum and if you're brave enough, go to Chambercombe Manor, allegedly one of the most haunted houses in Britain.

Woolacombe, Devon

3 miles of gently sloping golden sands, and as in keeping with the beaches on this part of the North Devon coast, it's a good 'un for the surf, so every summer the village of Woolacombe gets very busy with families and people wanting to catch the waves. The beach huts and the backdrop of rolling hills add to the timeless charm, the lifeguards bring peace of mind.

Croyde, Devon

Croyde has some of the best surfing waters in the world so it pulls the dudes all through the year. It's also brilliant for families wanting a day out by the sea; there are three sandy beaches, the main one is 3 miles long and backed by sand dunes and then the rolling green hills of North Devon. The village is a dear, lots of old thatched cottages hung with flowers, and charming little tea shops. 

Culbone Church, Porlock Weir, Minehead, Somerset

Walk up over the cliffs to the smallest parish church in England, seating only 33 people. It was used as the setting for John Rudd's wedding in a televised version of Lorna Doone and on the hillside are the romantic ruins of Lord Byron's daughter's gothic mansion and tunnels carved in the hillside.There's also a lovely little tea room; a lovely spot.

T: 01598 741270

Tarr Steps, Dulverton, Somerset

One of those things you just have to see if you're round these parts. This clapper bridge crosses the River Barle - it's not the original one, that was swept away, but it's identical. Walk from here along the river bank and up to Winsford Hill to see Exmoor ponies grazing. Just up the road is Tarr Farm Inn, a nice spot for a bite to eat.

The Exmoor Pony Centre, Ashwick, Dulverton, Somerset

The Exmoor Pony Centre is run by a charity that works to promote and protect the rare-breed Exmoor pony and though admission is free they rely on donations and fundraisers to to help support their work. Go and meet the ponies and stroke them, have a taster groomng session or go for a trek. They have fun days, demonstrations and talks, and you can even have a pony party or adopt a pony. Open 1st April-end Oct, indoor and outdoor picnic areas.

T: 01398 323093

The Valley of Rocks, Lynton, Devon

The Valley of Rocks was formed when the natural recession of the cliffs dissected a former tributary of the East Lyne River. You can walk here from Lynton, it's only a mile or so; you'll be rewarded with spectacular sea views and you might even see the wild goats that feed here. Walk back for scones in one of the little tea shops in Lynton.

T: 01598 752384

Dunster Castle, Dunster, Somerset

A fairy tale castle owned by the National Trust; it stands high above the streets of Dunster and has over 1,000 years of history to find out about. Lots to see in the house, dungeons to visit, a secret passage and family trails. Have a game of snooker in the Billiards Room and then explore the parkland. 

T: 01643 821314

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, Parracombe, Barnstaple, Devon

Have cream tea on board an old fashioned steam train as it pootles along this short route through the rolling hills and wooded valleys of North Devon, or dismount at Kilmington Lane Holt and stroll to the Fox & Goose Inn for lunch. What a lovely thing to do.

T: 01598 763487

Exmoor Zoo, Bratton Fleming, Barnstaple, Devon

A seriously good zoo with some very unusual creatures - the big hairy armadillo, rusty spotted cat, cotton-top tamarind and bat-eared fox for example! Stroke alpacas, handle a snake, hear the cacophonous black and gold howler monkeys and singing dogs. Take a picnic or go to the African Cafe.

T: 01598 763352

Quince Honey Farm, South Molton, Devon

Quince Honey Farm is so much more than somewhere to buy a jar of honey! This place is absolutely lovely! The views over the Devon countryside are gorgeous for a start, and there's plenty to do here - landscaped nectar gardens to explore, guided tours, candle rolling, Critter Encounters, indoor and outdoor play areas, beekeeping demonstrations, mini bee-keeping experiences, and a shop and cafe. You really ought to go.

T: 01769 572401

Cleeve Abbey, Washford, Somerset

Go and soak up the hallowed tranquility of this beautiful abbey - the 15th century refectory, cloister buildings and gatehouse. If you go by steam train and get off at Washford it's only a ten minute walk here, and you can picnic in the peaceful grounds.

T: 03703 331181

Tropiquaria Wildlife Park, Watchet, Somerset

Take the family to explore the 5.5 acres of grounds here and to see the animals - wallabies, meerkats, monkeys and tapirs; watch the fish in the Aquarium,spot free flying birds and geckos in the Tropical Hall. There are outdoor and indoor play areas and a cafe. 

T: 01984 640688

Doniford Farm Park, Watchet, Somerset

A lovely place to stop off for a couple of hours or so, especially if you’re hungry because they have a very good café that does breakfast, lunch, tea and cake, and a carvery on Sundays. There are animals to say hello to – chickens, goats, pigs, llamas and ponies, and if it’s raining you can take the tinies inside to romp about in the play barn.

T: 01984 634535     

Cobbaton Combat Collection, Umberleigh, Devon

This is a massive collection of military displays, mostly from World War II, but there are some from the Boer War and more modern times up to the Gulf War. If that's what floats your boat you'll enjoy looking at it all - tanks, guns, helmets, artillery, grenades and bombs, gas masks, black out lamps, uniforms and even Home Front ration books. Take a picnic or have a snack in the NAAFI canteen wagon if it's open. 

T: 01769 540740

Watermouth Castle, Ilfracombe, Devon

Fun, fun, fun at this castle and theme park where there are rides a-plenty in Adventure Land and Merry Go Land. Grab yourselves a taste of Victorian life, explore the Dungeon Labyrinths, and pay a visit to Gnome Land; the Hall of Mirrors and the Tilting House will have you chuckling, and there's also a Soft Ball Cannon Shooting Area. A brilliant day out for the whole family.

T: 01271 867474

Ilfracombe Aquarium, Ilfracombe, Devon

This small aquarium is right by the historic harbour at Ilfracombe, a very apt and charming setting. Go and find out about the wonderful underwater world of the North Devon area, see all kinds of aquatic creatures - over 75 fish species, starfish, anenomes, octopus, hermit crabs and oh, loads more! Quiz trails, interactive activities, talks; top it off with a pasty in the cafe and a gift from the shop.

T: 01271 864533

West Somerset Railway, Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, Somerset

The West Somerset Railway is a lovely old fashioned steam railway that stops at several places along the Somerset coast; catch a train to the seaside at Watchet, Blue Anchor or Minehead, go and see Dunster Castle, or have a pootle round Bishop's Lydeard. You can have drinks or lunch on the train, book up for events like Murder Mysteries, or hire a carriage for a special occasion.

T: 01643 700398

Crealy Theme Park & Resort, Clyst St Mary, Devon

Crealy Theme Park & Resort is an award winning theme park that makes for a brilliant family day out. There are over 60 rides, indoor play areas, entertainment and live shows, and it’s home to Sooty Land. Ride the Vortex, the Twister and the Soak Zone, little ones will love Neptune’s Tea Cups. Go say hello to the 200+ animals who live here including meerkats, wallabies and alpacas. Lots of food outlets on site. Book online.

Lundy Island, North Devon

Catch the boat from Ilfracombe or Bideford to Lundy Island and spend the day here; you might see seals and puffins whilst you're exploring. Join a rockpool ramble, find the Lundy Bunny on the letterboxing trail, go snorkelling or fishing. There's a shop and a pub on the island, but it's best to take a picnic. Dogs are not allowed on the island.

T: 01237 431831

The Exmoor Stores, Exford, Somerset

A lovely little local shop where you can get all your essentials and plenty else, including kindling, logs and a few gifty things. Meat can be ordered from local suppliers, fish is delivered on Thursdays. Stroll along on the sunshine for a newspaper and a pint of milk; simple pleasures, simple pleasures. 

T: 01643 831244   

South Molton Pannier Market, South Molton, Devon

Every Thursday and  Saturday between 8.30am and 1.00pm you can shop at the Pannier Market in South Molton where you'll find over 70 traders all under one roof. Their wares are for the larger part, locally made, reared or grown - meat, fruit and veg, jams and pickles, cheeses, pasties and pies, cakes and bread, plants, flowers, antiques and collectibles, and gifts. The atmosphere is very upbeat, with people filling their baskets high.

T: 01769 572252 

Porlock, Somerset

The pace of life slows down when you come to Porlock; it's a quiet Exmoor village where charming old cottages and welcoming shops line the narrow streets. Watch the world go by on the harbour at Porlock Weir, have a cream tea in Whortleberry Tea Rooms or pub grub at the 13th century Ship Inn. 

Allerford, Somerset

Picture postcard stuff; a charming little village within the Holnicote Estate on Exmoor. There's a shop and post office, a working forge, centuries old cottages, and most famously of all, a 15th century packhorse bridge. Have a cream tea in the tiny tea shop, or at Cross Lane House Hotel just up the road; take the family to Exmoor Owl and Hawk Centre close by.

Selworthy, Exmoor, Somerset

It doesn't get much more chocolate-boxey than this; thatched cottages, an ancient church and a quiet village green. The backdrop of Exmoor's heather topped moors and the views out over Porlock Vale are breath taking; walk to Selworthy Beacon and head back to Periwinkle Cottage for a traditional Devon cream tea.

Dulverton, Somerset

A quiet town on the River Barle in Exmoor National Park, where it's nice to stroll around the streets and browse the independent shops. There's a well stocked second hand bookshop, an excellent wine bar and a good pub on the bridge by the river, or go to one of the welcoming tea rooms for a fat slice of cake.

Minehead Somerset

Minehead is great for those traditional family days out at the seaside; the long sandy beach has the backdrop of a lively promenade packed with shops, cafes and bars, and in the town you can stroll around Blenheim Gardens where there's a bandstand and a putting green. Board a boat down at the harbour for a cruise around the bay, come back for fish and chips from Alcombe Fish Bar or cream tea at Apple on the Avenue tea rooms. One of the best ways to get here is by steam train with The West Somerset Railway; it all adds to the fun.

Dunster, Somerset

A medieval village with a castle towering high above the streets, a working water mill, an octagonal 17th century Yarn Market and lots of attractive cottages, shops and cafes. In December each year they hold Dunster by Candlelight, a very festive event with a wonderful atmosphere.  

South Molton, Devon

South Molton is a nice little town to stop off for a browse round when you're on your holidays in Devon. It's known as the Gateway To Exmoor, so is surrounded by startlingly beautiful countryside. Shops are mostly small and family run, there's a lively Pannier Market twice a week, and if you're peckish, well, you'll find somewhere.

Ilfracombe, Devon

Ilfracombe is famous for its fantastic surfing beaches, but other than that it's a nice town with plenty to see and do. There's a peaceful harbour, an aquarium, a theatre, a park, and one of Britain's most haunted houses, Chambercombe Manor. Walk along the seafront, browse the various shops and have a bite to eat in one of the many tea shops and pubs.

Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club, Minehead, Somerset

A classic links course with the rugged backdrop of the Brendon Hills and some spectacular sea views. The 18 hole par 72, 6,264 yard course has the finest greens and some challenging features; unwind after a round in the club house. Visitors and corporate groups are very welcome.

T: 01643 702057

Road Cycling Routes Around South Molton, Devon

This website gives you 10 cycle rides around South Molton ranging from 13 miles to nearly 100, so you ought to find something to suit you. Beautiful countryside, pubs and cafes en route for refreshments. 

Pompys Cycles, Minehead, Somerset

Hire bikes from this family run business in Minehead and go and explore Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills. Hire includes a helmet and they'll happily lend you a route map, and note that if you're staying at The Old Rectory or Bossington Hall and you want 4 bikes or more they'll deliver them to you.
Pompys Cycles also does sales, servicing and repairs - worth knowing if you've got your own wheels and you get any problems.

T: 01643 704077 

Tarka Trail, Barnstaple, Devon

The Tarka Trail covers 180 miles of spectacular scenery in Devon and Somerset, following the route of Henry Williamson's Tarka the Otter. It's a figure of 8 trail with the southern loop inclduding the longest contnuous off-road cycling route in the UK. Plenty of places to visit and to stop for eats along the way, absolutely beautiful scenery. 

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire, Barnstaple, Devon

Tarka Trail Cycle Hire are right beside Barnstaple Railway Sation so you can't miss them. They have over 130 bikes for hire with something to suit everyone - hybrids, mountain bikes, road bikes, tandems, electric bikes, kids bikes, tag-a-longs, child trailers, weehoos, piggybacks and child seats. Get your wheels sorted and explore the fantastic scenery along the Tarka Trail.

T: 01271 324202

Bike Trail Cycle Shop & Cycle Hire, Fremington, Barnstaple, Devon

A great selection of bikes for hire right by the Tarka Trail, including electric bikes, road bikes, cruisers, hybrids, tandems and handcycles. They'll deliver bikes to you within reason and don't forget that if you have you have your won bike with you and you have a problem with it, they do repairs as well. Basically anything bike related, they'll do it.

T: 01271 372586 or 07788 133738

Exe Valley Way, Somerset/Devon

A 50 mile walking trail that follows the course of the River Exe through a stunning landscape of lush valleys and hills in Somerset and Devon. It starts near Exford on Exmoor and winds its merry way through Withypool, Dulverton, Bampton, Tiverton and Exeter before entering the sea at Exmouth on the Jurassic Coast. The trail can be broken down into 10 shorter sections with some wonderful spots for picnics or lunch at a riverside pub.

Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor, Somerset

At 519m this is the highest point on Exmoor and it's worth the hike to the top because you feel like you're king of the world and you can see for miles and miles and miles. It can get busy in the summer and at times it's almost like a pilgrimage with all the people walking up there, but everyone says hello and it's all very jolly, so don't let it put you off.

Withypool Hill, Withypool, Exmoor, Somerset

Here’s a nice walk: park at Withypool and walk up to the top of Withypool Hill where you can see a Neolithic bowl barrow and cairn, and on the slopes, one of only two complete stone circles on Exmoor. Amazing views, so take a picnic and soak it all up, otherwise head back down for a local venison burger at The Royal Oak, or for cream tea at Withypool Tea Rooms.

Tarr Steps, Dulverton, Somerset

Tarr Steps is a lovely place for a walk whether you want a gentle amble or more of a hike. Most people just manage to stroll down the hill to the river and the ancient clapper bridge and then back up to Tarr Farm Inn for cream tea, but you can do so much better than that. Walk up to Winsford Hill to see Exmoor ponies feeding or do the circular to Dulverton and back. 

Holnicote Estate, Exmoor, Somerset

A huge estate covering 12,000 acres of gorgeous Exmoor countryside. Walk through ancient woodlands, along quiet beaches, on wild moors and along winding country lanes. Climb Dunkery Beacon, go to Bossington Beach and the tea rooms in the village, to Selworthy and Allerford; it's all so incredibly perfect and picturesque.

Horner Wood, Exmoor, Somerset

An ancient woodland within the Holnicote Estate on Exmoor; oh, it's lovely - huge pollarded oaks, moss covered tree trunks, tinkling streams and well worn paths to follow. The perfect autumn walk in the woods, kicking up the leaves, catching them when they tumble down on the breeze.

Bossington Hill, Bossington, Somerset

One of the few Easy Access sites on Exmoor; two trails of 830m and 350m have more or less level paths that are suitable terrain for wheelchairs and buggies. On the top of the hill there's a rather romantic stone hut where you can stop to admire the breath taking views.

Watersmeet, Lynton, Devon

One of the most beautiful spots on Exmoor, where the East Lyn River and the Hoar Oak Water meet. Stroll along the river bank and through the ancient woodlands of this deep gorge and then have a slice of cake in the tea garden that used to be a fishing lodge. Fresh air and wonderful scenery; it's a must.

T: 01598 753348

Exmoor National Park, Somerset/Devon

Exmoor National Park is a land of steep wooded hillsides, lush river valleys, open farmland, heather-clad heaths and rugged moors where wild ponies feed. Inbetween are peaceful hamlets and villages and little market towns. It's a very diverse landscape with so many beautiful places that really are worth seeing; put Tarr Steps, Watersmeet, Porlock Weir, Culbone Church, and Bossington on your list. For days by the sea, go to Minehead, Blue Anchor or Watchet.

Tall Trees Trail, Dunster, Somerset

A 600m long trail with wide and even waymarked trails suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. See England's tallest tree - a Douglas Fir that stands 61.3m high, and a magnolia that has reached a height of 24m. This was originally an arboretum planted in the 1870's by the family who lived in Dunster Castle.

Heddon Valley, Exmoor, Somerset

A great place to go walking within Exmoor National Park, with fantastic scenery of towering cliffs and deep wooded valleys. Take your pick from narrow winding lanes, clifftop paths or woodland tracks. Have a picnic along the Heddon River or go to the Hunters Inn for home made chicken pie.

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