30+ Memorable Ways To Fill Self-Catering Holidays on Exmoor

1. Coastal Walks:

Explore the stunning coastline of Exmoor National Park with its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and picturesque coastal paths. The South West Coast Path runs along the Exmoor coast, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for long walks or shorter hikes. Alternatively, go a little inland and walk in the footsteps of Poets along The Coleridge Way. See suggestions for walks below (5, 33 & 34).

3. Watersports and Beaches

Enjoy a variety of watersports activities along the Exmoor coast. Head to places like Lynmouth or Porlock Weir for kayaking, paddle boarding, or even surfing if conditions permit. Take a picnic and beach towels to Lee Bay and Lee Abbey Beaches for rock pooling and wild-swimming. There are also several family-friendly beaches where you can relax, picnic, or take a refreshing dip in the sea.

5. Valley of The Rocks near Lynton

Marvel at the dramatic rock formations to the west of Lynton and enjoy panoramic views of the Bristol Channel. Located near Lynton, the Valley of Rocks is a striking geological formation featuring dramatic rock pinnacles and cliffs. Take a walk along the clifftop paths, clamber amongst the rocks, spot wild goats and enjoy the picturesque landscape. The valley also contains one of Devon’s most idyllic village cricket pitches and Mother Meldrum’s, named after a local witch and the perfect place to enjoy lunch or a Devon cream tea (cream first while enjoying the hilly views.

6. Picturesque Exmoor Villages

Explore the charming villages and hamlets scattered throughout Exmoor National Park. Visit Dunster, with its medieval castle and picturesque streets, or head to Porlock Weir, with its quaint thatched cottages overlooking a historic harbour. Villages such as Winsford, Exford, Dulverton (which is more a small riverside town),  Allerford, Withypool, Malmsmead, Challacombe and Wootton Courtney offer a glimpse into rural life as it used to be, with most still keeping a well-stocked village shop, ancient pubs tearooms and riverside or woodland walks.

8. Exmoor Food and Drink

Sample the local culinary delights of Exmoor. Taste Exmoor beef, lamb, and locally produced cheeses. Visit local farm shops, bakeries, and markets to gather picnic supplies or try traditional cream teas in one of the charming tearooms.

9. Dunster Castle and Village

Explore the historic village of Dunster, known for its well-preserved medieval castle. Wander through the charming streets, visit the castle's gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of Exmoor and the Bristol Channel. Explore the magnificent Dunster Castle, a historic National Trust property perched on a hill overlooking the village of Dunster. Discover its rich history, wander through the gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of Exmoor and the Bristol Channel.

10. Lynton and Lynmouth

Enjoy scenic walks in a hilly corner of Exmoor known as Little Switzerland. Visit the Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall Museum and take in the breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea. Visitors will love the little shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and tea rooms in these two tiny, picturesque towns.

11. Exmoor Zoo

Discover a range of animals, including exotic and rare species, including big cats, monkeys, and reptiles, at Exmoor Zoo. The zoo focuses on conservation and offers interactive experiences and educational activities for visitors of all ages. Get up close to a range of animals, including big cats, monkeys, reptiles, penguins and more. Visitors (especially younger ones, can get to be zookeepers for the day or help to feed some of the tamer animals, such as the Penguins. The zoo is known for its conservation efforts and offers educational talks and opportunities for children to help feed some of its cute and tamer residents.

12. Tarr Steps

Visit the pre-historic clapper bridge in the heart of Exmoor, known as Tarr Steps. This (still walkable) stone bridge, believed to date back to the Bronze Age, spans the River Barle and is surrounded by beautiful woodland. It provides a picturesque spot for walks, picnics, and exploring the surrounding woods.

14. Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre

Located in the village of Dulverton, the Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre provides information about the park's flora, fauna, and trails. Learn about the park's history, pick up maps, and get tips for exploring the area.

15. West Somerset Railway

Take a ride on the West Somerset Railway, a heritage steam railway that carves its way through picturesque countryside. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of the steam locomotives and hop off at beautifully restored stations to explore nearby towns and attractions along its 23-mile track.

16. Wimbleball Lake

On the Water Activities at Wimbleball Reservoir

Wimbleball Reservoir offers a variety of exciting water-based activities for visitors to enjoy. Activities include Dinghy sailing, Stand-Up paddling, canoeing and kayaking. The walk around the perimeter path is a picturesque way to fill a couple of hours if you are not going on the water. 

South West Lakes Trust, which manages the reservoir, offers a range of water activities at Wimbleball Reservoir, including canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can hire equipment and/or book a tuition course.

• Website: swlakestrust.org.uk/wimbleballlake
• Address: Wimbleball Lake, Brompton Regis, Dulverton, Somerset TA22 9NU
• Email: wimbleball@swlakestrust.org.uk
• Phone: 01398 371460
• Opening Hours: [Please check the website for current opening hours]
• Facilities:
  • Toilets: Yes
  • Disabled Toilets: Yes
  • Baby Changing Facilities: Yes
  • Café: Yes
  • Equipment Provided: Yes (kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards available for hire)

Activities Offered: Dinghy sailing, canoeing, kayaking, SUP.

17. Exford

Visit the village of Exford, nestled in the heart of Exmoor. It’s a community where sometimes horses can still outnumber vehicles. Enjoy a traditional cream tea or picnic on the green, which has a good children’s playground, explore the charming streets, and go for walks along the River Exe which flows through the village. It has two characterful and popular pubs on either side of the village green; the White Horse Inn and The Crown Hotel. Alternatively, and particularly for cream tea lovers, head for the Exford Bridge Tearooms; you won’t be disappointed. If you’re planning a shopping expedition to replenish your holiday cottage larder, then Exford will oblige: Try the Exford Village Stores. It offers a range of essentials, groceries, and local products, including fresh produce, bakery items, dairy products, and household goods.

18. Exmoor Pony Centre

Learn about the native Exmoor ponies and their conservation at the Exmoor Pony Centre in Dulverton. Visitors can meet the ponies, take part in pony-related activities, and even adopt a pony for the day.

19. Explore the Doone Valley

Immerse yourself in the romantic landscapes of Doone Valley, made famous by the novel "Lorna Doone" by R.D. Blackmore. Explore the peaceful countryside, walk along the River Exe, and discover the settings and church that inspired the story. From Oare Church, walk up Badgworthy Water and return via Brendon Moor. A beautifully scenic riverside and moorland walk with many riverside picnic and paddle spots.

20. Watersmeet

Not a village but the beautifully scenic confluence of two moorland rivers, The East Lynn and Hoaroak Water, in a steep-sided wooded valley. It’s an idyllic location with opportunities to paddle and picnic. It’s also the location for one of Exmoor’s best tea rooms run by the National Trust. Take a scenic walk along the riverside, admire the cascading waterfalls, and relax in or outside the tearoom overlooking the stunning scenery. Enjoy a riverside walk from the centre of Lynmoouth, or there is a car park about a 200m walk from the cafe.

21. Porlock Weir

Exmoor by the Sea! Visit the charming coastal village of Porlock Weir, known for its picturesque harbour and historic buildings. Take a stroll around the harbour, visit the quaint shops and art galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the seafood restaurants. See if you can spot the smiling pillbox! Try a  Porlock Oyster, known for its outstanding, clean and fresh flavour - one of the best places in the UK to try this seafood delicacy.

22. Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Take a return trip on the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the highest and steepest fully water-powered railway in the world. Enjoy the scenic journey between the twin coastal villages of Lynton and Lynmouth while admiring the stunning views coastal views.

24. Lynton Cinema

Enjoy a movie night at the charming Lynton Cinema. This traditional 68-seat cinema is a step back in time and showcases a mix of classic and contemporary films. Opened in 2001 in a converted Methodist church, while it may look and feel nostalgically retro, it does have air conditioning, Dolby sound and accessible seating.

27. Selworthy Village

Visit the picturesque village of Selworthy, known for its thatched cottages and beautiful gardens. Explore the village, enjoy a cream tea, and soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings.

29. Coast Walk to Culbone Church

Park at Porlock Weir and, having explored its harbour and shops, follow the South West Coast Path westwards through sun-dappled woodland glades to England’s smallest  (and probably quaintest) working Parish Church. Which, so ‘tis said, inspired Coleridge to write his poem, Kubla Khan. What will your pilgrimage to this little ecclesiastical gem inspire in you?

Where to Stay

Perhaps the most popular way to enjoy Exmoor holidays is to rent a holiday cottage. You'll find plenty of these on the Moor of all sizes, from tiny rural retreats for two to large country houses offering group accommodation for large families or a get-together with friends. Most are available all year for short or weekend breaks and longer holidays.

View our collection of Exmoor Holiday Cottages and find your Favourites.