This blog is based on a YouTube video from Loz’s Leisure, Exmoor Top 10: Somerset & Devon Travel Guide, – where we share highlights from a recent trip, staying as guests of The Best of Exmoor. Watch the full video for details, stunning visuals, and insider tips!
Welcome to Exmoor, a hidden gem in the southwest of the UK, straddling Somerset and North Devon. With its rolling moorlands, quaint villages, stunning coastal views, and diverse wildlife, Exmoor National Park is the perfect destination for those seeking tranquillity and adventure alike.
Top 10 Spots on Exmoor
1. Porlock Weir
A peaceful coastal retreat
Nestled along the coast, Porlock Weir offers a tranquil escape. Stay in one of the cozy cottages overlooking the sea, where birds may drop by for a visit. Take a stroll along the marshland and beach, or enjoy a pint of Exmoor cider at The Ship Inn. For a special treat, book a fine dining experience at Locanda on the Weir, where local ingredients shine in every dish.
Nestled along the coast, Porlock Weir offers a tranquil escape. Stay in one of the cozy cottages overlooking the sea, where birds may drop by for a visit. Take a stroll along the marshland and beach, or enjoy a pint of Exmoor cider at The Ship Inn. For a special treat, book a fine dining experience at Locanda on the Weir, where local ingredients shine in every dish.
2. Selworthy
Step back in time in this picturesque village
A short drive from Porlock Weir, Selworthy is famed for its thatched cottages and panoramic countryside views. Don’t miss a walk to Selworthy Beacon, where you can see across the Bristol Channel to Wales, followed by a cream tea at Periwinkle Cottage.
A short drive from Porlock Weir, Selworthy is famed for its thatched cottages and panoramic countryside views. Don’t miss a walk to Selworthy Beacon, where you can see across the Bristol Channel to Wales, followed by a cream tea at Periwinkle Cottage.
3. Broadsands Beach
A hidden slice of paradise
Known for its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, Broadsands Beach is an idyllic spot that feels like it’s straight out of Jurassic Park. Access it via a scenic walk with 250 steps down to the beach. Bring a kayak or simply paddle in the cool waters.
Known for its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, Broadsands Beach is an idyllic spot that feels like it’s straight out of Jurassic Park. Access it via a scenic walk with 250 steps down to the beach. Bring a kayak or simply paddle in the cool waters.
4. Combe Martin
Sunset and seaside dining
This charming village is perfect for water activities and hiking. End the day with fish and chips from the Black and White shop, enjoyed on the beach as the sun sets over the bay.
This charming village is perfect for water activities and hiking. End the day with fish and chips from the Black and White shop, enjoyed on the beach as the sun sets over the bay.
5. Lynton and Lynmouth
Little Switzerland by the sea
Explore these twin towns connected by a historic water-powered cliff railway. Wander Lynmouth’s charming fishing cottages and Lynton’s independent shops, then enjoy the ride up for panoramic views.
Explore these twin towns connected by a historic water-powered cliff railway. Wander Lynmouth’s charming fishing cottages and Lynton’s independent shops, then enjoy the ride up for panoramic views.
6. Valley of Rocks
A geological wonder
Just a short walk from Lynton, this U-shaped valley is home to feral goats and spectacular rock formations. Take the circular coastal walk for stunning views of the sea and moorlands.
Just a short walk from Lynton, this U-shaped valley is home to feral goats and spectacular rock formations. Take the circular coastal walk for stunning views of the sea and moorlands.
7. Porlock Village
Traditional Exmoor charm
Stroll through Porlock’s thatched cottages and quaint shops. Stop by the Whortleberry Tearoom for a sweet treat or pick up local goodies like jams or Exmoor gin at The Big Cheese.
Stroll through Porlock’s thatched cottages and quaint shops. Stop by the Whortleberry Tearoom for a sweet treat or pick up local goodies like jams or Exmoor gin at The Big Cheese.
8. Ilfracombe
Art and coastal adventures
Ilfracombe’s bustling harbor is home to Verity, a striking Damien Hirst sculpture, and plenty of coastal activities. Enjoy seafood at Slice of Devon or explore the Tunnels Beaches, carved in the 1820s.
Ilfracombe’s bustling harbor is home to Verity, a striking Damien Hirst sculpture, and plenty of coastal activities. Enjoy seafood at Slice of Devon or explore the Tunnels Beaches, carved in the 1820s.
9. Tunnels Beaches
Victorian history meets coastal beauty
Step back in time and explore hand-carved tunnels leading to secluded beaches and tidal pools. Plan your visit around low tide to enjoy the rock pools fully.
Step back in time and explore hand-carved tunnels leading to secluded beaches and tidal pools. Plan your visit around low tide to enjoy the rock pools fully.
10. Torre Cider Farm
A family-friendly cider paradise
Wrap up your Exmoor trip with a visit to this charming cider farm. Sample craft ciders, meet the farm animals, and enjoy live music in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Wrap up your Exmoor trip with a visit to this charming cider farm. Sample craft ciders, meet the farm animals, and enjoy live music in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Plan Your Visit to Exmoor
This is just the Top 10! There are tonnes of places to explore. Exmoor offers a unique blend of natural beauty, local charm, and exciting experiences. Whether you’re craving an adventure, looking for a peaceful retreat, or seeking out hidden gems, this National Park has something for everyone.
