Ultimate Guide to Exploring Exmoor National Park: Wildlife, Trails & Heritage

Nestled in the heart of South West England, Exmoor National Park offers a stunning blend of rugged landscapes, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastlines. As we wander its vast moorlands and picturesque villages, we can’t help but feel a deep connection to nature’s timeless beauty.

Exmoor’s rich history and diverse wildlife make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether we’re hiking its scenic trails, exploring medieval castles, or spotting red deer and Exmoor ponies, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Join us as we delve into the wonders of Exmoor National Park and uncover the secrets that make it a truly unique destination.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Landscapes: Exmoor National Park features a unique blend of moorlands, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastal scenery, offering a visually rich experience for nature enthusiasts.
• Rich Wildlife: Home to iconic species like the Exmoor pony and red deer, the park also hosts a variety of bird species and rare plants, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
• Outdoor Activities: Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, cycling, horse riding, and water sports, supported by an extensive network of trails and natural waterways.
• Historical Sites: The park is rich in cultural heritage, with medieval villages, ancient settlements, and historical landmarks like Dunster Castle contributing to its historical significance.
• Conservation Efforts: Active initiatives focus on sustaining natural habitats and protecting native species, involving community participation through educational programmes and volunteer opportunities.
• Visitor Amenities: A range of accommodation and dining options are available, from camping sites to luxurious country inns, alongside convenient transportation links for easy access and movement within the park.

Overview of Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park, covering 267 square miles, combines varied landscapes with rich natural and cultural heritage. Located in South West England, this park spans across Devon and Somerset counties. Established in 1954, it was designated to protect its natural beauty and promote public enjoyment.

Diverse Landscapes

Exmoor’s terrain includes rolling hills, classically known as moorland, and deep valleys intersected by swift rivers. Coastal cliffs, some of the highest in England, offer panoramic views. Woodland areas, such as ancient oak forests, shelter abundant wildlife.

Flora and Fauna

Exmoor boasts a myriad of plant species, including rare whitebeams and carpets of bluebells in spring. Fauna is equally diverse, with iconic red deer and the native Exmoor pony roaming free. Birdwatchers can spot species like merlins, peregrine falcons, and dovekies.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking, cycling, and horse riding are popular activities due to the extensive trail network, including sections of the famous South West Coast Path. Anglers enjoy fishing in rivers like the Exe, known for its trout and salmon.

Cultural Heritage

The park is peppered with historical landmarks. Medieval villages, Iron Age hill forts, and remnants of ancient settlements illustrate the area’s long history. Dunster Castle, a historic fortress, offers stunning views and insights into the past.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation is pivotal to Exmoor. Organisations collaborate to sustain natural habitats and protect native species. Projects focus on maintaining the balance between human activity and environmental preservation.

Visitor Information

Exmoor National Park Authority provides resources and guides to help visitors. Information centres in Lynmouth and Dulverton offer maps, brochures, and expert advice. Visitors can also find accommodation options ranging from camping sites to cosy bed and breakfasts.

Natural Beauty and Landscapes

Exmoor National Park offers some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the UK. From expansive moorlands to lush woodlands and dramatic coastal scenery, the park provides a visual feast for nature lovers.

Moorlands and Heathlands

Exmoor’s moorlands and heathlands are iconic, covering vast areas with distinctive rolling hills and open spaces. Heather, gorse, and bracken dominate the scenery, creating a unique habitat for wildlife. These landscapes provide a haven for species like the skylark, stonechat, and the rare heath fritillary butterfly. They also serve as important grazing grounds for the Exmoor pony and red deer.

Woodlands and Forests

Our woodlands and forests are rich with diverse flora and fauna. Ancient oak woods, such as those in Horner Wood, house a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and tawny owls. The undergrowth teems with bluebells, wild garlic, and ferns during springtime. These areas are perfect for leisurely walks, offering shaded paths and tranquil spots for picnics.

Coastal Scenery

Exmoor’s coastline is a dramatic blend of cliffs, coves, and rocky outcrops. The cliffs at Valley of Rocks offer panoramic views and are home to wild goats and peregrine falcons. Our coastal paths wind through picturesque villages with sandy beaches, like those at Lee Bay and Porlock Weir. The coastline provides a stunning backdrop for activities such as kayaking, fishing, and rock pooling.

Wildlife and Conservation

Exmoor National Park’s rich biodiversity plays a crucial role in its charm and appeal. Efforts to preserve its unique wildlife and natural habitats are ongoing and essential.

Native Species

Exmoor is home to several iconic native species. The Exmoor pony, with its ancient lineage, is a symbol of the park. Known for their resilience and hardiness, these ponies roam freely and contribute to the area’s natural grazing balance. The red deer, Britain’s largest wild land mammal, also thrives here, offering majestic sightings, especially during the autumn rut.

Birdlife is diverse, with species like skylarks, stonechats, and the rare heath fritillary butterfly inhabiting the moorlands. The park’s woodlands support a variety of bird species such as wood warblers and pied flycatchers. In the coastal areas, seabirds like guillemots and razorbills nest on the rugged cliffs, providing spectacular viewing opportunities.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts in Exmoor focus on sustaining natural habitats and protecting native species. The Exmoor National Park Authority collaborates with local and national organisations to implement conservation strategies. Initiatives include habitat restoration projects, such as rewetting bogs to support the diverse moorland ecosystem and managing woodlands to promote biodiversity.

Monitoring wildlife populations helps maintain a balance between species and their habitats. For instance, controlled grazing by the Exmoor ponies ensures the moorlands don’t become overgrown, which benefits a range of plant and animal species. Conservation grazing schemes are critical for maintaining the health of these habitats.

Educational programmes and volunteer opportunities raise awareness and involve the community in conservation work. By engaging local schools, residents, and visitors, these efforts foster a collective responsibility for preserving Exmoor’s natural beauty for future generations.

Recreational Activities

Exmoor National Park offers a wide range of recreational activities that cater to all interests. Visitors can immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and explore its diverse landscapes through various engaging activities.

Walking and Hiking

The park boasts over 1,000 km of footpaths and bridleways, perfect for walking and hiking. The South West Coast Path provides breathtaking coastal views, while the Coleridge Way leads hikers through historic landscapes. For those seeking shorter routes, the Exford and Dunkery Beacon trails offer stunning scenery and manageable distances.

Cycling

Exmoor provides excellent cycling opportunities for all skill levels. There are marked trails such as the Tarka Trail and the Coleridge Way, which offer diverse terrains. The park’s undulating hills and scenic paths challenge dedicated cyclists, while gentler routes like the Exe Valley Way cater to beginners and family outings.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is a popular activity in Exmoor, with several dedicated bridleways and permissive routes. Riders can explore the high moorlands, picturesque valleys, and ancient woodlands. Local stables and equestrian centres offer guided rides and horse rental services for those without their own horses.

Water Sports

Exmoor’s dramatic coastline and rivers provide excellent water sports opportunities. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular in areas like the River Barle and Wimbleball Lake. The coast creates ideal conditions for fishing, particularly from the cliffs and rocky outcrops of the Valley of Rocks.

Enjoying these activities allows visitors to fully appreciate Exmoor National Park’s diverse environments and unique charm.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Exmoor National Park offers not only natural beauty but also a deep historical and cultural tapestry.

Archaeological Sites

Our exploration reveals numerous archaeological sites, showcasing human activity over millennia. Tarr Steps, a prehistoric clapper bridge over the River Barle, dates back to around 1000 BC. Several Bronze Age barrows and Iron Age hill forts, such as Badgworthy Land and Old Burrow, highlight ancient settlement patterns. The village of Dunster, with its castle and medieval buildings, illustrates medieval and post-medieval architecture and heritage, making it a key historical site in the park.

Local Traditions and Folklore

Exmoor’s cultural richness is evident in its local traditions and folklore. We find tales of the mythical “Exmoor Beast,” a large, elusive cat-like creature that has intrigued locals for decades. Traditional events like the annual Exmoor Pony Festival celebrate the native Exmoor pony, highlighting the community’s connection to this resilient breed. The historic Dunster by Candlelight event, where the medieval village of Dunster illuminates with candles and festive lights, reflects the enduring cultural practices that bond the community and attract visitors.

Visitor Information

Visitors to Exmoor National Park will find a range of accommodations, dining options, and transportation choices to enhance their experience.

Accommodation Options

Exmoor offers diverse accommodation options for all visitors. Campers can choose from several well-equipped camping sites such as Exmoor House Caravan Site and Porlock Caravan Park. Bed and breakfast enthusiasts will find charming establishments like the Luttrell Arms Hotel and the Yarn Market Hotel, both located in the historical village of Dunster. For those seeking luxury and amenities, country inns like the Exmoor White Horse Inn in Exford provide comfortable accommodations with exceptional service.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Exmoor boasts a variety of local dining experiences reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage. Visitors can savour traditional Exmoor dishes in local pubs such as The Crown Hotel in Lynton and The Rest and Be Thankful Inn in Wheddon Cross. Fine dining options are available at restaurants like Woods Bar & Restaurant in Dulverton, offering farm-to-table cuisine. Farmers’ markets, including the one held monthly in Minehead, provide an opportunity to sample locally produced goods and artisanal foods.

Getting There and Around

Traveling to and around Exmoor is convenient. Visitors can reach the park by car via the A39 and A396, with ample parking available at key locations like Lynmouth and Dulverton. For those preferring public transport, regular bus services connect major towns and villages within the park. The nearest railway stations are Taunton, Tiverton Parkway, and Barnstaple, where connecting bus services operate. Once within the park, walking, cycling, and horse riding are excellent ways to explore the area, supported by an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways.

Conclusion

Exmoor National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether we’re exploring its diverse landscapes or engaging in outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. The park’s dedication to conservation ensures that its ecological treasures are preserved for future generations. With a variety of accommodation and dining options, as well as accessible travel links, planning a visit is straightforward. Let’s immerse ourselves in the stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and vibrant wildlife that make Exmoor an unforgettable destination.