The wild landscapes and dramatic coastline of Exmoor National Park make it an excellent choice for a holiday. From the open moorland and wooded valleys to its rugged coastline, pretty villages and traditional country pubs, there is plenty to discover.
Famous for its free-roaming Exmoor ponies, red deer and spectacular scenery, Exmoor is also a wonderful place to escape the everyday. It is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the UK to enjoy clear, star-filled skies. Read more
There's space for all your family and friends in Marine Court. This fantastic holiday home in Ilfracombe sleeps up to 20 people in eight ensuite bedrooms, including 2 family suites with interconnecting rooms. There's a kitchen designed for group catering, a large living and dining room with your own personal bar, and a games room with pool table. You're only a short walk from beaches, shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as Ilfracombe harbour and the South West Coast Path. Local attractions include the Milky Way Adventure Park, RHS Gardens Rosemoor and Exmoor National Park. Marine Court is ideal for celebrating a milestone occasion, hosting a family reunion, or holidaying with friends.
Toads Breech is one of two delightful pet-friendly holiday cottages in a lovely rural position nestling in the River Exe Valley within the Exmoor National Park in Somerset. With lots of original character, a log burning stove and fine scenery, the holiday cottages are an ideal peaceful retreat at any time of the year and being on the Somerset/Devon Border, they are within easy reach of the area's many attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Buzzards is a charming holiday cottage in the peaceful countryside of Somerset within Exmoor's beautiful national park. With a log burner for cosy breaks, plenty of character and stunning rural scenery, Buzzards offers the opportunity to relax and unwind with an abundance of attractions for day trips out throughout Somerset and also Devon. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Gamekeeper's Cottage is in a tranquil setting in the Exmoor National Park, close to Lynton and Lynmouth and only a mile from the coast. It sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, one of which is downstairs, and suits couples as well as families and friends. The views are incredible, and there are gorgeous walks and mountain bike trails from the front door of the holiday cottage. There are only three cottages at the end of the long private driveway, ensuring you aren't disturbed by anything louder than the local birds.
Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, fantastic walking and cycling routes and just a short drive to beaches such as Croyde, Woolacombe, Saunton and Westward Ho!, a holiday at Upper Tallet really does have something for everyone. Located a ten minute drive from Barnstaple, this first floor holiday home sleeps six guests in three bedrooms and has a hot tub located on a private patio. Enjoy days on the beach, exploring Exmoor National Park or simply sit back and relax in beautiful surroundings.
Just a stone's throw from Exmoor National Park and long sandy beaches, Courtyard Cottage is set in gorgeous North Devon countryside on the outskirts of the market town of Barnstaple. Perfect for walking, cycling or surfing holidays, or simply enjoying some time out in a beautiful setting, this tastefully decorated holiday cottage is an ideal self-catering getaway for couples or small families. Sleeping four guests in two bedrooms with a wood burning stove and underfloor heating it is cosy all year round.
Enjoy amazing views from the private deck of this superb one-bedroom holiday apartment in Lynton. Coachman's Quarters is part of the character Lynton Cottage Seaview Apartments, a short walk from shops, tea rooms, pubs and attractions. It's ideal for couples who want to make the most of the coastal location within the Exmoor National Park, providing comfortable accommodation over three floors with a well-behaved dog also being welcome. This area is perfect for walking, with the South West Coast Path, Coleridge Way, Tarka Trail, and Two Moors Way all meeting on Lynmouth's promenade. Coachman's Quarters is available for bookings all year round.
Escape to the romance of The Shepherd's Shed, a charming glamping shepherd's hut within walking distance of The Castle Inn and village shop in Landkey, and close to Barnstaple, North Devon beaches and Exmoor National Park. Guests can sleep happily in the cute hut with a double bed and cosy log burner, surrounding themselves with stunning views and a garden that includes an outdoor hot tub and covered barbecue area. The Shepherd's Shed is ideal for a holiday in any season, being warm and welcoming to couples and solo travellers, including those with a dog.
Hen House is a spacious holiday home in a quiet location close to Exmoor National Park and only 10 minutes from Bideford. The dog-friendly, ground-floor property sleeps two people in one bedroom and has superb views from every room except the bathroom. It boasts a big sun deck with sun loungers and an outdoor hot tub, while indoors is kept cosy in winter with a log burner. North Devon beaches like Westward Ho! and Croyde are only half an hour away, and Ilfracombe, Appledore, and Lundy Island are also within easy reach.
Sitting on the edge of the Exmoor National Park, this beautifully presented holiday cottage is an ideal choice for anyone wanting to explore the North Devon Coastline and its stunning sandy beaches with Combe Martin, Croyde and Woolacombe (amongst others) within easy reach.
Set against a scenic hillside, Barn Cottage offers a charming and tranquil countryside retreat. Offering accommodation for up to six people in three bedrooms, Barn Cottage has access to an onsite swimming pool and sauna as well as the estate's activities.
The charming stone façade of The Old Stables perfectly complements the glorious rolling hills that surround the property, offering unbeatable views from the courtyard garden. The three bedrooms highlight the building’s rich history with original oak beams and timber vaulted ceilings.
Orchard Cottage, set within a beautiful apple orchard, embodies sustainable living and serene comfort. Once an agricultural barn, this restored timber-framed retreat accommodates up to eight guests. Inside, rustic charm meets modern amenities, with rich timber beams, a cozy wood-burning stove, and inviting furnishings.
Mornacott Farmhouse is a beautifully refurbished property in the peaceful Devon countryside, accommodating up to 14 guests. Guests have access to an onsite swimming pool, sauna, games room and sports field, in addition to a network of footpaths which cross the wider estate.
The Old Malt House exudes period charm. Tucked away in the quiet village of Exton, the self-catering holiday home has direct access to footpaths and bridleways, offering secure bike storage and dog-friendly accommodation for four people in two bedrooms. It's perfect for couples or families who want to explore Exmoor National Park fully. The Somerset coast, Dunster Castle and Minehead are within easy reach, you're only a few miles from Dulverton and Tiverton, and there's an excellent pub half a mile away - just long enough to work up a thirst for a pint of locally brewed Somerset cider.
Beautifully presented, this stylish barn conversion provides contemporary holiday accommodation and sits on the edge of the Exmoor National Park in the village of Goodleigh. Within easy reach of Barnstaple, Devon's stunning coastline and the areas many attractions.
Spacious home from home in the picturesque village of Porlock in the heart of Exmoor National Park (Somerset/Devon border) offering spectacular sea views and plenty of space to accommodate 1-8 guests in four bedrooms. The flexible layout makes this holiday home a favourite with extended or multi-generational families and groups of friends as it enables everyone to spend time together without sacrificing their personal space. We also host photography groups and welcome guests from abroad. The historic Ship Inn and Porlock village centre are just a couple of minutes walk, and there are wonderful footpaths and cycling trails from our doorstep. Lynton, Lynmouth and Dunster are all nearby, as are wonderful beaches and the vast expanse of the Exmoor National Park. With a large secure private garden and wonderful beach, moorland and woodland walks on our doorstep our property your dogs will throughly enjoy their holiday too. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Perfectly placed in the picturesque Somerset village of Porlock, Bracken is a one bedroom ground floor holiday apartment with garden and car parking which provides the ideal place for individuals and couples to enjoy a relaxing break and discover the many attractions of Somerset, Devon and Exmoor National Park including the South West Coastal Path and Coleridge Way. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
A perfect family and dog friendly holiday retreat in the heart of Exmoor's picturesque National Park with breathtaking sea views, where two to eight guests can enjoy a relaxing holiday in the picturesque coastal village of Porlock in West Somerset. A haven for wildlife, the local area offers fantastic opportunities for walkers as well as restaurants for a meal out and plenty of attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Croydon Cottage is a welcoming holiday cottage near Minehead, offering self-catering accommodation for up to four guests on the historic Croydon Hall Estate at the edge of Exmoor National Park. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, this two-bedroom retreat combines the privacy of a detached cottage with access to the estate's leisure facilities, including the heated outdoor swimming pool and gym (subject to availability). Spend your days exploring Exmoor, Dunster, Minehead and the Somerset coast before returning to relax on your terrace, surrounded by trees and birdsong.
Popular towns in and around Exmoor:
BarnstapleCombe MartinDunsterIlfracombeLyntonMineheadPorlockTivertonSome local suggestions:
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Exmoor is in the south west of England, mainly in north Devon and west Somerset. The National Park covers around 267 square miles, stretching from the Brendon Hills in Somerset across the open moorland of Devon to the Bristol Channel.
The landscape is wonderfully varied, with heather-covered moorland, ancient woodland, wooded valleys, rivers and a dramatic coastline. Its location makes Exmoor a particularly good choice for a rural holiday with easy access to the coast.
Exmoor offers a combination of wild landscapes, beautiful coastline and traditional villages that makes it ideal for a relaxing escape or an active outdoor holiday. The national park is particularly popular for:
Whether you want to spend your days exploring the countryside or simply relax somewhere peaceful, Exmoor makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the great outdoors.
Exmoor is best known for its wild open landscapes, Exmoor ponies, red deer and spectacular coastline. The national park is also famous for its dark skies and is one of the best places in the country for stargazing.
Exmoor ponies are one of the area's most distinctive sights. This ancient breed has lived on the moor for thousands of years and can still be seen roaming freely across the national park. Exmoor is also home to England's largest population of red deer, while its coastline includes some of the highest sea cliffs in England.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Exmoor, whether you want an active outdoor adventure or a more leisurely day exploring the area.
Walking is one of the best ways to experience the national park, with routes crossing open moorland, following wooded valleys and overlooking the Bristol Channel. The South West Coast Path also passes through Exmoor, offering spectacular coastal walks.
Cycling, mountain biking and horse riding are popular too, while the rivers and coastline provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, sailing and other water-based activities.
For a slower-paced day out, explore one of Exmoor's villages, visit a historic attraction or stop at a traditional country pub for lunch.
Exmoor has many attractive villages and towns to explore, including Lynton and Lynmouth, which are particularly well known for their spectacular coastal setting. The picturesque villages of Porlock, Dunster and Dulverton are also popular places to visit, while South Molton, known as the “Gateway to Exmoor”, is a historic market town with a traditional weekly market and a good selection of independent shops, cafés and places to eat.
Dunster is home to the impressive medieval Dunster Castle, while Lynton and Lynmouth are linked by the historic cliff railway and provide access to some of Exmoor's most dramatic coastal scenery.
The area around Watersmeet is another popular place to visit, where wooded valleys and rivers create some of Exmoor's most beautiful scenery.
Exmoor is one of the best destinations in England for seeing wildlife in its natural surroundings. The national park's varied habitats support a wide range of birds, mammals, plants and insects.
The area is particularly famous for its Exmoor ponies and red deer, while visitors may also see birds of prey, butterflies and other wildlife while walking across the moorland and through the valleys.
The coastline and surrounding countryside are also home to an abundance of wildlife, making Exmoor a fantastic destination for nature lovers.
Exmoor is a great choice for a family holiday, particularly for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. There are plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, wildlife spotting and exploring the coast.
Children can look out for Exmoor ponies and red deer, discover castles and historic attractions, explore beaches and enjoy family-friendly walks. The area's villages, country parks and traditional attractions also provide plenty of options when you want a break from outdoor activities.
Exmoor is an excellent destination for a dog-friendly holiday, with miles of open countryside, woodland and coastal paths to explore.
There are plenty of scenic walks where you can enjoy the great outdoors with your four legged friends. There is also a great selection of pubs, cafés, attractions and holiday cottages that are dog friendly. As with any countryside destination, it is important to follow local guidance around livestock and wildlife, particularly during the nesting and deer seasons.
Although Exmoor is best known for its moorland and dramatic cliffs, the national park also has a number of beautiful beaches, coves and coastal spots.
Porlock Weir, Combe Martin and Lee Bay are among the places worth exploring, while the dramatic coastline around Lynton and Lynmouth provides spectacular views and excellent coastal walking.
The beaches and rocky coastline are ideal for exploring, walking and enjoying the scenery, with some quieter spots offering a real sense of getting away from it all.
Exmoor is a year-round destination, with every season offering something different. Spring and summer are particularly good for walking, cycling, wildlife watching and enjoying the coastline, while the warmer weather makes it easier to make the most of outdoor activities.
Autumn brings colourful woodlands, while winter can be wonderfully atmospheric, with quieter paths, dramatic coastal scenery and excellent conditions for enjoying Exmoor's dark skies.
Exmoor is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. It was designated Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve, recognising the exceptionally dark skies and low levels of light pollution.
On a clear night, you can see thousands of stars, planets and the Milky Way. Staying in a rural holiday cottage makes it easy to step outside after dark and enjoy the night sky.
Exmoor is easily reached by car from across the South West and South of England. The M5 provides the main road route from the south and east, with access via Taunton and the surrounding road network.
The nearest railway stations include Taunton, Tiverton Parkway and Barnstaple, from where you can continue your journey by car or bus.
Having a car is generally the easiest way to explore Exmoor, particularly if you want to visit its more remote villages, beaches and walking areas.
Staying in a holiday cottage is a great way to experience Exmoor, particularly if you want to be surrounded by countryside and have the freedom to explore at your own pace.
From cosy cottages for couples to larger properties for families and friends, there are plenty of options across the national park and surrounding countryside. Dog-friendly cottages are also a popular choice for visitors wanting to bring their four legged friends.
Whether you want to stay close to the coast, in a pretty village or surrounded by open countryside, an Exmoor holiday cottage makes a comfortable base for exploring this beautiful part of the South West.
