Things to do & places to visit in Exmoor National Park, United Kingdom

Exmoor National Park #76 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.54 based on 8.411 traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 21:56.

Exmoor National Park Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

59°F - 45°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

25%

Chance of rain

82.0 millimeters

Amount

15.3 mph

Wind speed

80%

Humidity

15.5

Daylight length

5:25 AM

Sunrise

8:56 PM

Sunset

45%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (21)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Watersmeet Trail (364 reviews)
- Stunning scenery
Hiking Trails

This was outstanding. It is a 4 mile round trip hike. It is only for the able and it is not wheelchair accessible. We walked from Lynmouth and the scenery is just lovely. It took us 2.5 hours. It would of taken less time but we had to stop a lot and take photos because it is so beautiful. Unfortunately the tearoom was closed due to a landslide. See more..
5.0 Lynton Cinema (303 reviews)
- A great independent Cinema
Speciality Museums

My wife (Jackie), and I popped in to watch ‘Bullet Train’ (Brad Pitt etc.), at the Lynton Cinema. The staff are extremely friendly and welcoming, the prices are very reasonable and we were more than happy to support this great independent, intimate Cinema (Lynton is the smallest Town to have a Cinema in the UK), and we would definitely recommend a visit to anyone, visiting or staying in the Lynton/Lynmouth area. A return visit is definitely on the cards… See more..
5.0 21 Mile Drive (87 reviews)
- Lovely Afternoon Drive.....
Scenic Drives

Looking for an afternoon out we came across the '21 Mile Drive' map on the 'Visit Lynton & Lynmouth' website Explore/Scenic Drives.... Narrow lanes running along cliff tops with glorious sea views and winding down through deep wooded valleys by fast flowing rivers, we spent a relaxing afternoon driving around this spectacular figure of eight drive. On the way round we parked up a couple of times to take short walks in the afternoon sunshine; as I said a lovely afternoon drive..... See more..
5.0 Burrowhayes Farm Riding Stables (75 reviews)
- Annual visit to Paradise
Equestrian Trails

We have been going to Burrowhayes Farm for 30 years. It is the most relaxing, idyllic site you could wish for. It’s nestled at the foot of Exmoor and Exmoor Forest and surrounded by picture postcard Somerset villages. There are riding stables and a gentle river running through the site which keep children of all ages entertained. Julian and Marion, with their trusty long-serving assistant Mary keep the site spotless and without disturbance. Utterly beautiful! See more..
5.0 South West Coast Path - Bossington Landscape (73 reviews)
- Stunning nature at its best
Hiking Trails • Scenic Walking Areas

An easy 2.5 mile stroll along the South West Coast Path on the halfway path around Bossington Hill, giving extensive views over the dramatically flat marsh and farmland of Porlock Vale, a landscape of national importance because of the rare flora and fauna which flourish here. See more..
5.0 Doone Valley (54 reviews)
- Finding bridge
Valleys

Saw this little bridge on the internet and as we were travelling from Minehead to Lynmouth/Lynton decided to see if we could find it. Fortunately didn't come across too much traffic on the way there and back as the roads are very narrow in lots of places. Once we got there we were not disappointed, it was lovely to see and the weather was kind. See more..
5.0 Indicknowle Farm (50 reviews)
- Lovely cider
Spent < 1 hour Farms

I phoned in advance just to check they'd be open and was told "the sign by the road will say closed, but just come down the lane and find us". So we did. It doesn't look like most farm shops - it's a barn. We were greeted by a lovely lady who served us samples and sold us some really good cider. A friendly dog came to say hello. See more..
5.0 Lynton Toy Museum and Shop (26 reviews)
- A lovely blast from the past!
Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

# I HAD THAT! Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane. See lots of toys, games and action figures from your childhood like Star Wars, He-Man, Sindy and much much more. See more..
5.0 Porlock Hill (24 reviews)
- Reliving an old experience
Scenic Drives

We first drove this road on our honeymoon in 1978 and I had forgotten just how steep and tight some of the early bends are. Fortunately for our confidence our C3 Aircross had just had its first service and we had no problems. Being a main road it does get some heavy vehicles but they were all treating it with respect. We looked up the details of this years bikeclimb of the official 4.2 miles and were amazed that the winner had done it in under 14 minutes. See more..
5.0 Watersmeet Trail (364 reviews)
- Stunning scenery
Hiking Trails

This was outstanding. It is a 4 mile round trip hike. It is only for the able and it is not wheelchair accessible. We walked from Lynmouth and the scenery is just lovely. It took us 2.5 hours. It would of taken less time but we had to stop a lot and take photos because it is so beautiful. Unfortunately the tearoom was closed due to a landslide. See more..
5.0 Lynton Cinema (303 reviews)
- A great independent Cinema
Speciality Museums

My wife (Jackie), and I popped in to watch ‘Bullet Train’ (Brad Pitt etc.), at the Lynton Cinema. The staff are extremely friendly and welcoming, the prices are very reasonable and we were more than happy to support this great independent, intimate Cinema (Lynton is the smallest Town to have a Cinema in the UK), and we would definitely recommend a visit to anyone, visiting or staying in the Lynton/Lynmouth area. A return visit is definitely on the cards… See more..
5.0 21 Mile Drive (87 reviews)
- Lovely Afternoon Drive.....
Scenic Drives

Looking for an afternoon out we came across the '21 Mile Drive' map on the 'Visit Lynton & Lynmouth' website Explore/Scenic Drives.... Narrow lanes running along cliff tops with glorious sea views and winding down through deep wooded valleys by fast flowing rivers, we spent a relaxing afternoon driving around this spectacular figure of eight drive. On the way round we parked up a couple of times to take short walks in the afternoon sunshine; as I said a lovely afternoon drive..... See more..
5.0 Burrowhayes Farm Riding Stables (75 reviews)
- Annual visit to Paradise
Equestrian Trails

We have been going to Burrowhayes Farm for 30 years. It is the most relaxing, idyllic site you could wish for. It’s nestled at the foot of Exmoor and Exmoor Forest and surrounded by picture postcard Somerset villages. There are riding stables and a gentle river running through the site which keep children of all ages entertained. Julian and Marion, with their trusty long-serving assistant Mary keep the site spotless and without disturbance. Utterly beautiful! See more..
4.5 Dunster Castle (2.636 reviews)
- An attractive domesticated castle
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Castles

We spent a pleasant morning at Dunster Castle. Arriving shortly after the opening time of 10 am, we were able to park quite near the entrance and caught the shuttle bus to the castle. There we had a coffee in the Tenants’ Hall pop up cafe. Being some distance from the main cafe, there was no tap water available, as all washing up has to be taken elsewhere. A plus was the playing of some ancient instrumental music. Entering the castle, a volunteer explained the route we should take, and we duly followed it. There had been extensive renovations in the 1860s, and it was reasonably interesting to have these explained. The main staircase has intricate carving on it. Also of note were the unusual leather hangings , depicting the story of Anthony and Cleopatra. I enjoyed visiting the bedrooms, and seeing the large deep bath, which used to have a wood cover on it which folded back. Unfortunately, on one occasion it fell onto the lady of the house, relaxing in the bath, so was removed. Downstairs the interests of gentlemen were highlighted by the gun room and adjacent billiard room. This latter had beautiful carved wood doors, previously in the dining room and inner hall. We had a short walk in the grounds before returning to the car to collect our picnic., See more..
4.5 Valley of the Rocks (1.195 reviews)
- Not for the fan it hearted .
Historic Walking Areas

We were recommended the walk earlier on our trip and weren’t disappointed. The drive up the Lynmouth and Lyndton is a bit hair raising so should’ve expected nothing less from the costal walk. It’s a good half an hour on a pretty narrow pathway with pretty sheer drops down to the see and no barriers, so just be prepared. But it’s so worth it, it’s so quiet and calm with endless views across the water and coastline. We could hear the goats, but couldn’t see them! It is hilly and seems to get a bit busy in the middle of the day so be prepared to stop and start to give way, would give it a go if you have the legs for it. See more..
4.5 Watersmeet House (831 reviews)
- Lovely cafe, much needed caffeine hit!
Sunday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Parks • Valleys

Where the lush valleys of Hoar Oak Water and the East Lyn river tumble together sits Watersmeet House, a 19th-century fishing lodge, now a National Trust shop, tea room and information point. Watersmeet House was built in 1832 as a fishing lodge by the Reverend W.S. Halliday, the son of a rich businessman. The stone for the house was quarried at Watersmeet, above the East Lyn River. Sitting in a beautiful wooded river valley, Watersmeet and its surrounds are a fantastic place to walk, and enjoy the abundant wildlife and nature of this part of Exmoor. See more..
4.5 Dunster Working Watermill (420 reviews)
- Fascinating old mill
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This fully operational water mill is a little gem, wonderfully restored to its former glory, A tour gives you an insight to the ingenuity of the craftsmen of a bygone age. I bake all my own bread so use the mill as my flour provider, they sell several types of flour all available in the shop. I buy in bulk, so order a sack in advance but they will produce to a very short timescale, if you make your own bread it is well worth a visit just for that. See more..
4.5 Tarr Steps (394 reviews)
- Beautiful place! Great for a family outing
Bridges

Really beautiful area great for a family outing, I would advise bringing a picnic there is a pub nearby but no food our children would eat and quite expensive for lunch/snacks. During our visit there were quite afew vehicles that drove through the lake whilst kids were in playing so be aware of this. Bring suitable water footwear as barefoot is quite painful going across the rocks in the water. Parking in the car park costs £3 for the day which is reasonable, there were two stands by the lake one selling ice creams and the other selling tea, coffee, cakes, beer & cider. Definitely worth a visit can easily spend most of the day here, hopefully we will get the chance to visit again when in the area. See more..
4.5 Dunster Yarn Market (232 reviews)
- Beautiful piece of history
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

This little piece of history was just up the road from where we were staying so we spent 15mins looking round. It is managed by English Heritage and is where the traders came to sell their yarn around 300years ago out of the rain. The structure is intact with much of the original architecture and worn wood seating around the edge. Lovely See more..
4.5 Dunkery Beacon (200 reviews)
- Lovely Views on a Clear Day
Points of Interest & Landmarks

It was surprisingly quiet when we visited (around 2pm on a clear, sunny day). We deliberately waited to walk until the afternoon as it was cloudy in the morning and we were so pleased we did as the views were amazing. The car park was small but sufficient and there were a number of different routes we could take up to the top. Would recommend sturdy footwear. See more..
4.5 Dunster Village (156 reviews)
- Lovely village best seen early or late to avoid too many cars or people
Neighborhoods

Dunster is a lovely village with many interesting buildings, quite a lot of tourist centred shops and several good places for refreshment. Its main drawback iis the high street parking which detracts from the ancient atmosphere so you may prefer to go early or later - when the shops may be shut. According to out hosts in Porlock, Reeves Restaurant is very good, if a little pricey. I mention this, without prejudice, for what it is worth. See more..
4.5 Heddon's Mouth- South West Coast Path Walk (133 reviews)
- Lovley walk for those that normally dont like walking
Scenic Walking Areas

A gentle 2 mile stroll on relatively level terrain along parts of the South West Coast Path through ancient woodland, along a babbling stream to a tiny secluded shingle beach strewn with boulders and shadowed by steep, scree-clad hillsides, with dramatic cliffs of geological importance and tales of smugglers and U-boats. See more..
4.5 Lynmouth Pavilion Exmoor National Park Centre (129 reviews)
- Helpful & friendly staff - very useful for info in north Devon
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

Whether you are a visitor or a local resident our National Park Centre in Lynmouth provides you with inspiration and ideas to explore this picturesque coastal village and the special landscapes of Exmoor. Our expert staff offer a warm welcome and have a wealth of knowledge; from top sights to see, walking routes, adventure experiences, wildlife information and a full listing of local events. A visit to our centre is the best way to ensure you make the most of your time in Lynmouth and on Exmoor. Located on the seafront in Lynmouth our modern family friendly centre has interactive displays, a film theatre, hands on activities for children, a range of free guides and maps and a fabulous selection of gifts and local products. See more..
4.5 Combe Martin Museum (107 reviews)
- A hidden gem of local information
Speciality Museums

A local history museum which tells the story of Combe Martin over three floors, social, trade and industry and maritime history. We run Seashore Safaris in the summer, children's activities and hold regular coffee mornings (see our website). The museum is Makaton friendly (symbol language)and accessible to those with a visual impairment through the use of the 'Talking Pen'. The museum is very child friendly and accessible to wheelchair users. We have a Copy Shop with A3/A4 printing,photocopying and laminating facilities. Free Wi-Fi. Summer opening hours - 10.30 - 5.00 7 days per week, winter hours - Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday 10.30 - 3.30 See more..
4.5 The Parish and Priory Church of St. George, Dunster (93 reviews)
- Intriguing history
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals

One of the most distinctive features of this church is the situation of the rood screen, which is positioned across the nave. The Church authorities resolved a dispute many years ago between monks and parishioners by moving the screen forward to divide the church between the two sides of the argument! See more..
4.5 Dunster Museum and Dolls Collection (82 reviews)
- Kind and helpful receptionist
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

Dunster wishes to invite you to its brand new community museum and doll collection. Come and discover the amazing story of this beautiful village and travel through time from its foundation to the present. Visit us and explore our vibrant history, hear stories of Viking raids and bloodshed in the Civil War, tales of romance in the time of Lords and Ladies and see how history has shaped the idyllic place that thousands visit every year. Also see our fabulous Doll Collection. We have one of the largest collections of dolls in the country, with thousands of dolls spanning different time eras, cultures and manufacturers. The collection is always growing so there are likely to be many new additions and faces if you have visited before! Situated in the beautiful medieval village of Dunster, we are located on the gateway to Exmoor National Park. Come and visit us today! PLEASE NOTE: The Project is still under way and as such not all aspects of it are complete. We thank you for your understanding and co-operation. See more..
4.5 Gallox Bridge (77 reviews)
- Beautiful picture postcard scenery.
Bridges

TripAdvisor helped me to locate this beautiful bridge and stream in the stunning village of Dunster near Minehead. We used this as a stop for our two dogs to stretch their legs and have a paddle which they did and thoroughly enjoyed. This whole area,including the cottages leading toward the bridge,is stunning and after the bridge there are several paths leading to various locations. There is a small car park about a 100 metres from Gallox bridge which costs a pound for an hour (blue badge pay also)and the walk to the bridge is fairly level......a must visit if ever in the area. Visited 9th July 2018. See more..
4.5 Wistlandpound (58 reviews)
- Gorgeous
Bodies of Water

I had a couple of hours spare on my ride home from Martinhoe and I saw a sign for this reservoir. I decided to see what it was. I was thoroughly rewarded as it was a very scenic walk. The parking is fine (I parked at the top which was free- I think) but you can drive down a small path to the main parking which does cost. You can then take an outer or inner walk around the reservoir. I took the inner as I had already walked 8km earlier. It was a beautiful place to visit and not too crowded. A worthwhile visit. See more..
4.5 Dulverton Exmoor National Park Centre (47 reviews)
- Helpful friendly & enjoyable walk
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour National Parks • Parks

Whether you are a visitor or a local resident our National Park Centre in Dulverton provides you with inspiration and ideas to explore this historic market town and the special landscapes of Exmoor. Our expert staff offer a warm welcome and have a wealth of knowledge; from top sights to see, walking routes, adventure experiences, wildlife information and a full listing of local events. A visit to our centre is the best way to ensure you make the most of your time in Dulverton and on Exmoor. Located in the heart of Dulverton, our centre is home to a wide range of National Park information as well as archaeological and woodland displays. It is conveniently located next to Dulverton’s Heritage Centre and museum. See more..
4.5 Combe Martin Beach (44 reviews)
- Picture perfect little cove
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

Such a beautiful little beach - it feels like it is straight out of a novel- perfect little cove with stunning scenery. We got to the village before 10 on a sunny August Sunday and parked with no issues but get there any later and you’re going to have to be patient! We couldn’t do the main beach because we had dogs but there is a lovely shingle beach which is great for a paddle with the hounds. The little village is lovely and I picked up a beautiful piece of artwork from an artist who lives in the village. See more..