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Exmoor National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Somerset, Devon

Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park is a diverse landscape featuring moorland, woodland, valleys, and farmland. It offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers.

National Park267,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

267,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park is a diverse landscape featuring moorland, woodland, valleys, and farmland. It offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Exmoor National Park, located in the southwest of England, covers areas within Somerset and Devon. This park is known for its expansive moorlands, dense woodlands, and deep valleys that offer breathtaking vistas. Established in 1954, it provides habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the famous Exmoor ponies and a rich bird population. Visitors can explore over 620 miles of pathways, including long-distance routes like the South West Coast Path and the Coleridge Way. Historical landmarks within the park, such as the medieval village of Dunster and the Tarr Steps, add to the cultural depth of Exmoor. The landscape invites visitors to engage in hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding. Rich in both biodiversity and history, Exmoor offers unique opportunities to experience England's natural and cultural heritage.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Exmoor National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Majestic Landscapes: Dartmoor National Park★ 8.7⌖ 37 miHiking
Dartmoor National Park

Majestic Landscapes: Dartmoor National Park

Explore Dartmoor National Park in Devon, featuring iconic granite tors and expansive moorlands. This remote location offers hiking and rock climbing. It's ideal for adventure seekers and is most enjoyable in the spring and summer.

Scenic Coastal Trekking at South West Coast Path★ 8.7⌖ 39 miHiking
South West Coast Path

Scenic Coastal Trekking at South West Coast Path

Explore the South West Coast Path near Cornwall, offering coastal hiking with panoramic Atlantic views. Ideal from late spring to early autumn, this trail provides opportunities for wildlife watching, beachcombing, and kayaking along dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches.

Hiking to Glastonbury Tor: Iconic Hilltop Landmark in Somerset★ 7.7⌖ 42 miHiking
Glastonbury Tor

Hiking to Glastonbury Tor: Iconic Hilltop Landmark in Somerset

Climb Glastonbury Tor, a natural hill near Glastonbury, Somerset, with a moderate hike up stone steps to historic St. Michael’s Tower. Enjoy panoramic views, pastoral surroundings, and cultural heritage year-round, ideal for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection.

Down Tor Stone Circle: A Mystical Gem in Dartmoor★ 6.6⌖ 42 miHistorical Exploration
Down Tor Stone Circle

Down Tor Stone Circle: A Mystical Gem in Dartmoor

Visit the ancient Down Tor Stone Circle in Dartmoor National Park, a mystical site with around 30 standing stones. Best explored during spring and fall, it's an easy hike-in spot perfect for history buffs and photographers seeking solitude and stunning moorland views.

Historical ExplorationView Details→
Saranac Lake 6er Challenge in Lake Placid★ 8.2⌖ 43 miHiking
Lake Placid

Saranac Lake 6er Challenge in Lake Placid

Explore the Saranac Lake 6er Challenge near Lake Placid, NY, featuring 6 peaks with varying trails and stunning vistas. This challenge is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a moderately difficult hiking experience, typically enjoyed best in spring or fall.

Waterfall Wonders: Pontneddfechan★ 8.5⌖ 47 miWaterfall Viewing
Pontneddfechan

Waterfall Wonders: Pontneddfechan

Explore the serene waterfalls near Pontneddfechan, South Wales. Enjoy hiking and a refreshing dip at Sgwd Gwladus Waterfall. Great for birding and photography with scenic views. Access via drive-in, best visited in spring or fall.

Waterfall ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor with panoramic views✦ The Valley of the Rocks with unique geological formations and feral goats✦ Exmoor ponies, a rare and protected species roaming free✦ Tarr Steps, an ancient stone clapper bridge across the River Barle
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Exmoor National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Exmoor National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Exmoor National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Exmoor National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access to the park, with parking fees at some locations

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Exmoor National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Exmoor House Caravan and Camping Site

Located near the village of Dulverton, offering modern amenities and easy access to trails.

Doone Valley campsite

A secluded campsite near Badgworthy Water, ideal for those seeking a rustic experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Exmoor National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

North Molton
⌖ 6.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Molton, Devon

A rural gateway to Devon's wild landscapes, with rugged moorlands and serene woodlands perfect for immersive outdoor adventures.

Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Wheddon Cross
⌖ 6.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wheddon Cross, England

A tranquil gateway to the rugged landscapes of Exmoor, Wheddon Cross invites outdoor enthusiasts to tackle moorland hikes, forest trails, and river valley adventures amid traditional English countryside charm.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
South Molton
⌖ 8.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Molton, Devon

A charming rural market town that offers easy access to rugged moorland adventures, tranquil rivers, and verdant woodlands in the heart of North Devon’s countryside.

Spring through AutumnExplore Town
Porlock Weir
⌖ 9.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Porlock Weir, England

A tranquil coastal retreat where timeless fishing heritage meets rugged coastal trails and tidal waterways, perfect for outdoors enthusiasts seeking charm and challenge.

Late Spring through Early AutumnExplore Town
Minehead
⌖ 11.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Minehead, Somerset

A charming coastal town offering seaside adventures and access to Exmoor’s wild landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Minehead
⌖ 11.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Minehead, England

A charming coastal gateway blending beachside adventure with rugged moorland challenges and historic paths along the edge of Exmoor National Park.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Exmoor National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Climbing Adventure with Rock And Rapid AdventuresSouth Molton, England · 8.10 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Rock And Rapid Adventures

Climbing Adventure with Rock And Rapid Adventures

Introduce your kids to the thrill of climbing with Rock And Rapid Adventures' fun, engaging NICAS Wild Climbers Course. Perfect for young adventurers, this program builds confidence and skills in a safe indoor setting. Join us for a six-week journey designed to spark a love for climbing and prepare the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your child is a beginner or has some experience, our friendly instructors tailor activities to keep everyone progressing and having fun. Set in Portland, this course is conveniently located and family-friendly, combining indoor safety with outdoor adventure potential. This course emphasizes safety, teamwork, and confidence-building in a supportive environment. Kids learn essential climbing skills through games and challenges that develop their problem-solving, coordination, and strength. It’s a great way to introduce young climbers to a sport that promotes physical health and mental resilience. Beyond the indoor wall, the skills acquired here serve as a springboard for outdoor rock climbing adventures in the area’s outdoor crags and parks. Participants leave with a sense of achievement, ready to tackle new heights. For parents seeking an engaging, safe, and educational activity for their children, this program offers a perfect start to a lifelong love of climbing and outdoor exploration. Discover how Rock And Rapid Adventures is shaping the next generation of outdoor lovers and climbers—fun, safety, and skill at the core of every session.

6 weeks, 30-minute sessions

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Master Rock Climbing Basics in South Molton: Special Offer Climbing InductionSouth Molton, England · 8.10 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Rock And Rapid Adventures

Master Rock Climbing Basics in South Molton: Special Offer Climbing Induction

Discover how the Special Offer Climbing Induction in South Molton equips budding climbers with essential skills like harness fitting, knot tying, and belaying, all within 1.5 hours. Perfect for ages 14+, this unique session opens the door to independent climbing in Devon’s stunning natural setting.

1.5 hours

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Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.