Exmoor National Park lies in north Devon and extends into Somerset, forming one of the county’s most varied natural landscapes. It is known for its combination of open moorland, wooded valleys and a dramatic coastline with high cliffs. The park covers a large upland area and includes some of the least developed parts of southern England. It is widely visited for walking, wildlife and coastal scenery, with access points across both inland and coastal sections.
About Exmoor National Park
Exmoor covers approximately 692 square kilometres and includes a mix of moorland, farmland, river valleys and coastline. Compared with Dartmoor, the landscape is more varied, with a stronger combination of inland and coastal environments.
The moorland areas are generally lower and more rolling, while the coastline includes some of the highest cliffs in England, particularly along the stretch between Combe Martin and Porlock. River valleys cut through the landscape, often wooded and enclosed, providing contrast to the open upland areas.
Exmoor has a long history of settlement and land use, including farming and hunting, and is known for its wildlife, particularly red deer and Exmoor ponies. The park includes small villages and scattered settlements, with access via a network of minor roads.
Landscape and Key Features
Exmoor combines inland moorland with a distinctive coastal edge and varied terrain.
Open moorland – Rolling upland areas covered in grass and heather, with wide views and a quieter, less exposed feel than Dartmoor.
Coastal cliffs – High cliffs along the Bristol Channel, offering elevated views and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in England.
Wooded valleys – Deep, sheltered valleys with rivers, woodland and a more enclosed landscape contrasting with the open moor.
Valley of Rocks – Dry valley near Lynton with unusual rock formations and coastal views, often associated with wild goats.
Wildlife – Habitat for red deer, birds and ponies, particularly in quieter inland areas and along valley edges.
Things to Do
Exmoor offers a mix of inland and coastal activities, with an emphasis on walking and nature.
Walking – Extensive network of footpaths and open access land allows routes across moorland, valleys and coastal sections.
Coastal walking – Sections of the South West Coast Path provide access to cliff-top routes and coastal viewpoints.
Wildlife watching – Opportunities to see red deer, Exmoor ponies and birdlife, particularly at dawn or dusk.
Exploring villages – Small settlements such as Lynmouth and Porlock provide access points and local facilities.
Scenic driving – Quiet roads cross the moor and follow the coastline, linking viewpoints and access locations.
Key Locations and Access Points
Exmoor can be accessed from both Devon and Somerset, with several key entry points.
Lynton and Lynmouth – Coastal towns providing access to cliffs, the Valley of Rocks and coastal walking routes.
Porlock – Village near the western edge of the park, with access to moorland and coastal areas.
Dulverton – Southern gateway to Exmoor, providing access to river valleys and inland walking routes.
Combe Martin – Eastern access point with connections to coastal paths and cliff sections.
Simonsbath – Remote central area offering access to quieter moorland and river landscapes.
Practical Information
Exmoor is accessible by car via a network of minor roads, with parking available at villages, viewpoints and designated car parks. Public transport is limited, particularly in central areas, and most visitors rely on private transport.
Facilities are available in larger villages such as Lynton, Lynmouth and Porlock, including shops, cafes and accommodation. Outside these areas, services are limited.
Navigation is generally straightforward on marked paths, though some moorland areas are less clearly defined. Weather conditions can change quickly, and coastal paths may include steep or uneven sections. Appropriate footwear and awareness of conditions are recommended.
When to Visit
Exmoor can be visited year-round, though conditions vary by season. Spring and summer provide longer days and generally more stable weather, making them suitable for walking and exploring both inland and coastal areas.
Autumn offers quieter conditions and seasonal colour in wooded valleys, while winter can bring strong winds and rain, particularly along the coast. Visibility can vary, especially in mist or low cloud on higher ground.
Summary
Exmoor National Park is one of Devon’s most varied landscapes, combining moorland, wooded valleys and a dramatic coastline. Its quieter character and range of environments make it suitable for walking, wildlife observation and scenic exploration. It can be explored as part of a wider visit to North Devon or combined with nearby coastal towns and villages.