About Exmoor and South Molton

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The smallest of Britain's National Parks, Exmoor is fondly known as Lorna Doone country as it is was the setting for RD Blackmore's famous novel of the same name. A paradise for nature lovers, the 267 square miles straddling the counties of Devon and Somerset are home to a variety of flora and abundant rare wildlife including red deer, wild ponies and several birds of prey. National trust footpaths, numerous stables and rivers make this first-class walking, riding and fishing country.

The Exmoor coast takes in the historic town of Porlock and hamlet of Porlock Weir, as well as the twin resorts of Lynton and Lynmouth which are linked by a unique water-driven cliff railway and lie in a region labelled 'Little Switzerland' by the Victorians. Dunster is a medieval village with a wealth of heritage and history, from the eleventh-century Dunster Castle to the Old Yarn Market in the high street.

And nearby, Somerset's premier holiday resort Minehead has a wide sandy beach and seafront promenade, while the picturesque old harbour area is full of pretty fishing boats and the starting point for a day trip out to sea.

Literature lovers should head to Oare church, where the legendary Lorna Doone was shot during her marriage to John Ridd. Or for something more calming, close by is the Lorna Doone Farm craft shop and tea rooms at Malmsmead.

Exmoor Attractions (Particular beauty spots)

The Doone Valley, Tarr Steps, Dunkery Beacon, Porlock Weir, Withypool Common, Foreland Point, Selworthy Green, Landacre Bridge, Heddon Valley, Trentishoe, Watersmeet, The Valley of Rocks, Robbers Bridge,Countisbury Hill, North Walk – Lynton.

Things to do in Exmoor

Watersmeet – picturesque former fishing lodge near Lynmouth with National Trust shop and tea garden. Exmoor Zoological Park – attractive stream bordered setting with tropical and rare birds and animals, near Bratton Fleming. Exmoor Brass Rubbing & Hobbycraft Centre – at Lynmouth.

Oare church – where the legendary Lorna Doone was shot during her marriage to John Ridd.

Lorna Doone Farm – craft shop and tea rooms at Malmsmead.

Arlington Court – Regency former home of the Chichester family with superb National Trust gardens and collections including horse drawn carriages.

Quince Honey Farm – fascinating selection of working hives at South Molton.

Dunster Castle – National Trust property dating from the 13th Century, near Porlock.

Hunters Inn – picturesque inn, gardens and tea rooms in the Heddon Valley.

Lifeboat museum – Lyn & Exmoor museum – Lee Bay. Cinema, tennis, boating putting, cricket and fishing trips at Lynton & Lynmouth.

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