For further information and images please contact:
Jennette Baxter
Starfish PR
starfish@baxter1.clara.net
or
Stacey Beaumont Media, PR & Communications sbeaumont@westsomerset.gov.uk
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New Electric Bicycle Hire Scheme Launches Across Exmoor and the Quantocks
Press Release:
For immediate release
A new electric bicycle hire scheme across Exmoor and the Quantocks is being launched on Friday 20 April at 11.00am at Tarr Steps, near Dulverton, Exmoor. Getting up the stunningly beautiful Exmoor hills is now as easy as if you were an Olympic athlete.
The electric bicycles, or e-bikes as they are commonly known, are available to hire from the White Horse Inn, Exford; the Tarr Farm Inn, Dulverton; the Staghunters Inn, Brendon; the Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster; and Exmoor Mountain Bike Hire at Wimbleball Lake and Brushford. The project, supported by Exmoor National Park and the Quantocks AONB, is looking for one more hire agent in the Quantocks.
In addition, a network of around twenty pubs, cafes and restaurants across the region have signed up as charging points, where customers will be able to recharge their batteries in more ways than one.
Hilary Lester of Tarr Farm Inn said, ?E-bikes help you take on hills with ease, and since they are as silent as ordinary bikes hirers can get really close to the amazing wildlife of Exmoor. A fully charged battery will go for around twenty miles and by using the charging points visitors can make their journeys of discovery and exploration as long or as short as they wish.?
The e-bikes are Wisper 705SEs which are renowned for their hill-climbing prowess and which have been provided by Reaction Electric of Taunton.
More information is available at www.exmoorunplugged.co.uk.
ENDS
Photo opportunity:
Members of the press are invited to come and have a go on an e-bike and meet hiring agents on Friday 20th April at 11am at Tarr Steps, near Dulverton , Exmoor TA22 9QA. http://www.tarrfarm.co.uk/how-to-find-us
There will be an opportunity to interview Hilary Lester, of Tarr Farm Inn and Alex Gower of Exmoor Mountain Bike Hire.
For more information please call Juliet Moulton on 07896 746887
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10th Annual Porlock Arts Festival 13 – 16 September 2012
It’s a big year for the Porlock Arts Festival which celebrates its 10th anniversary this September. Guests already booked to appear include international bestselling novelist and playwright Kate Mosse and award-winning theatre, film and television actress Dame Diana Rigg.
Set in the charming Somerset village of Porlock, surrounded by the Exmoor hills and overlooking the sea towards Wales, few festivals can boast such a picturesque location.
“We are celebrating ten years of poetry, prose, drama and song, and the beautiful landscape that inspires us all,” commented Arts Festival Patron and Sponsor Dame Margaret Drabble. “Porlock is the best place in Britain for a festival. It's a great meeting place for local authors, readers, and writers from all over the country.”
The Festival will open on Thursday 13 September with "Greg Chapman's Condensed History of Britain". Greg presented his previous one man show "Small Town to Big Apple" at the Festival two years ago and was so good that they have invited him back.
On Friday night Dame Diana Rigg will be talking about her hilarious compilation of the meanest and funniest theatre reviews ever; ’No Turn Unstoned’, along with an entertaining look at actors, playwrights and the theatre through history. And on Saturday evening Kate Mosse discusses her many best-selling books, particularly her most recent hauntingly beautiful novel, ‘The Winter Ghosts’.
The festival will also include Local Authors’ Day, Art Exhibitions, The Poetry Picnic, Singing Workshop, Tea Dance, Open Studios and Competitions.
Booking information and latest news at www.porlockfestival.org
For details on places to stay in and around Porlock and Exmoor, as well as things to see and do whilst in the area, visit www.Visit-Exmoor.co.uk
Media information & images from Jennette Baxter pr@baxter1.clara.net 07738 643211 on behalf of the Exmoor Tourism Partnership.
About Exmoor Tourism Partnership
The Exmoor Tourism Partnership (ETP) is a not-for-profit organisation comprising Exmoor National Park Authority, Exmoor Tourist Association and West Somerset Council. The partnership works to promote Exmoor National Park, the West Somerset coast and Quantock Hills AONB. To find out more about the ETP visit www.exmoortourismpartnership.co.uk
wwww.Visit-Exmoor.co.uk @visitexmoor www.Facebook.com/VisitExmoor
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Exmoor Exchange
Free networking event for all tourism providers from Greater Exmoor
Calling all tourism businesses in the Greater Exmoor Area! Head down to the new home of the Exmoor Exchange event, Minehead EYE, on Thursday 8th March 11-2.30pm for the annual free networking and leaflet exchange event run by the Exmoor Tourist Association.
‘We’ve got over 55 stalls booked so it’s our biggest Exchange event yet! It’s a great chance to network and talk through all the issues affecting your business with other tourism providers’ advises organiser, Rachel Kelly (secretary@exmoor.com). ‘Why not sample the new menu at the Minehead EYE cafe; discuss the hot topics affecting tourism in our area with friends and business acquaintances over lunch, before going round the stalls?’
Minehead Eye director, Naomi Griffith adds, “We find Exmoor Exchange a great networking event to spread the word about what’s happening on Exmoor and are looking forward to letting people know more about Minehead Eye. It’s wonderful to see so many familiar faces and catch up on all the news!”
Exhibitors include Porlock Tourist Association, West Somerset Railway and South West Lakes, Francis Clark Accountants and Brean Park, Hamper suppliers and Reaction Electric bikes, Exmoor Zoo and Noah’s Ark Farm, Lynton and Barnstaple Railway and Tropiquaria, Exmoor National Park and National Trust, Crown Estate and North Devon Theatres and so much more!
Making the Links are also presenting a seminar ‘Developing Digital Marketing’ inside the nearby WSR Cafe from 1 to 4pm (Cost: £20). Please book with Jenny Carey-Wood on 01984 629059 on 01984 629059 jenny@makingthelinks.co.uk.
The Exmoor 2012 print brochure will also be available for collection from the Exmoor Tourism Partnership stall and invitations have gone to all Local Tourist Information Centres, so businesses can arrange privately to drop their own promotional material with the TIC representatives.
Contact Rachel Kelly of Exmoor Tourist Association for information on the other stalls booked on 01984 633 782 or email secretary@exmoor.com. Parking available at WSR pay and display car park.
- ENDS
Rachel Kelly 01984 633 782 Secretary@exmoor.com 29th Feb 2012
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North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival 27 April – 6 May 2012
The twelfth North Devon and Exmoor walking festival strides out from Combe Martin on the first of more than 30 guided walks; all designed to showcase the very best walking available in this beautiful area.
This year the festival has been organised into four different locations, with 2 – 3 days of walks in and around Ilfracombe, Lynton and Lynmouth, Porlock and Dunster. Highlighting the huge diversity of countryside in this corner of the southwest, it also allows visitors to select accommodation closest to the walks, and to move with the festival.
Beginning in the Ilfracombe area walks include the coastal hills of Great and Little Hangman and the rocky, smugglers coast of Mortehoe as well as the fascinating Braunton Burrows biosphere. Moving along the coast to the pretty towns of Lynton and Lynmouth the walks feature Watersmeet, Woody Bay, the breathtaking Valley of the Rocks and the atmospheric Lorna Doone country. Hopping across the border into Somerset, the charming village of Porlock plays host to three days of fascinating outings including a walk up Dunkery Beacon; Exmoor’s highest point. The festival finishes in the medieval town of Dunster, covering the eastern side of Exmoor and the gentle foothills of the Quantocks.
The festival also covers much of the Exmoor National Park with Park, Crown Estate and National Trust Rangers guiding several of the walks. The walks range from a short half-day up to a full day’s hike, so there is something for most abilities. Several walks include food along the way, lunch at a delightful pub or a cream tea at a farm or guest house.
Prices range from £6 up to £13 for breakfast and a walk. Most of the outings are family friendly and well behaved dogs are welcome on many of the walks.
New Walks for 2012
- The Bat Discovery walk (5 May 7pm) at Wimbleball Lake is bound to be a winner. This includes a BBQ supper and talk with a South West Lakes Conservation Officer before going with torches alongside the lake to see the bats.
- A steam train ride from Dunster to Washford (5 May 10am) on the West Somerset Railway means that walkers can enjoy a fascinating linear 7.5 mile walk back.
- The breakfast walk (6 May 10am) led by the Crown Estate Ranger starts with a large, traditional farmhouse breakfast which can then be walked off on a 7.5 mile walk through the Crown Estate.
- For the more intrepid there is an 11 mile hike taking in the River Barle valley and the start of the River Exe (29 Apr 1030am).
- Discover the advantages of Pacer Poles, specially designed from first principles to apply biomechanics to whole body movement. These poles are different from the usual walking poles and are worth investigating (29 Apr 1030 am).
Outings for non-walkers
Organised by the Exmoor Society and led by the National Trust Ranger, this outing starts at Hunters Inn and goes alongside the Heddon River to Heddons Mouth using their Tramper all-terrain single-seater vehicles. This is a free outing (3 May 10.30am) but needs to be booked early to ensure availability.
Those who want to give their legs a rest may like to try horse riding over Exmoor. There is a 1 hour ride on offer from Outovercott Stables near Lynton (29 April 11.00am). Riders will get a 20% discount if they have a copy of the festival brochure.
How to Book
To find out more and to book visit www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk. A festival brochure is available by emailing bryan@activeexmoor.co.uk or call 01271 883131.
For accommodation suggestions try www.visit-Exmoor.co.uk or for a free copy of the 2012 Exmoor Guide call Porlock Tourist Information Centre on 01643 702624;
Festival Holidays walking the Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path from Minehead to Combe Martin can be booked direct with the Yarn Market Hotel, Dunster by calling 01643 821425.
The North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival is supported by the South West Coast Path National Trail, Farm and Cottage Holidays, Exmoor National Park Partnership Fund and The Heart of Exmoor Project. It is organised by West Country Walks with help from the Exmoor Tourist Association.
- Ends -
For press enquiries, images and facility visits please contact:
Jennette Baxter pr@baxter1.clara.net 07738 643211 on behalf of the Exmoor Tourism Partnership
About Exmoor Tourism Partnership
The Exmoor Tourism Partnership (ETP) is a not-for-profit organisation comprising Exmoor National Park Authority, Exmoor Tourist Association and West Somerset Council. The partnership works to promote Exmoor National Park, the West Somerset coast and Quantock Hills AONB. To find out more about the ETP visit www.exmoortourismpartnership.co.uk
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February Half Term: Dragons, Dark Skies and Pirates
For places to stay while you enjoy the activities below see our Accommodation pages
To find out what's on throughout the year see our Events pages
The quest for the Dragon’s lair sees a treasure trail through the grounds of the National Trust’s Dunster Castle in Somerset between11 – 19 Feb 2012. The trail starts from the 17th century stables and will allow visitors to enjoy breathtaking views over the sea to towards Wales, as well as overlooking the beautiful medieval village of Dunster and up to Exmoor National Park. Dragon prizes go to all participants that complete the trail (£2 per trail plus normal garden admission: £4.70 per adult and £2.20 per child).
The Culbone Inn is offering a family Dark Skies Safari during the February half term week. Available every evening, would-be astronomers will be picked up at the Inn – the highest on Exmoor – by a knowledgeable guide and taken to the best places to see the clearest skies that night (Exmoor National Park was recently awarded Dark Sky Reserve accreditation, the first place in Europe to receive this award). The trip costs £70 (2 adults and 2 children under 13years) and will last 2 ½ hours. 24 hours before the tour, guests will have their tour confirmed based on the weather forecast. Tours need to be booked in advance but there is no payment up front. Delicious dinners available too. www.TheCulbone.com 01643 862259.
The Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton, Somerset represents the flying arm of the Royal Navy. With four exhibition halls, over ninety aircraft and 30 thousand artefacts the Museum is the world's second largest naval aviation Museum. This half term the pirates are coming. Every day from 13 - 17 Feb there will be some fearsome family activities, including drawing pirate maps, making eye patches, learning to speak like a pirate and other scurvy going-ons. The Royal Marines will open their climbing wall for the public to have a go, and representatives from the Royal Navy’s 815 Squadron who will give a talk on the problem of modern day piracy. Normal admission prices apply (adults £13, children 5 – 16 years £9: family ticket £38). Visit www.fleetairarm.com or call 01935 840565 for more details.
North Devon Hawk Walks are offering a one hour introduction to falconry on Exmoor this February. This practical, hands-on introduction to falconry is great for all ages and children, in particular, get a great deal out of it. Costs £10 per person. For more details visit www.NorthDevonHawkWalks.co.uk or call 01598n740114.
Children can get outdoors and active at Hestercombe Gardens, near Taunton in Somerset this half term. Kids aged 8 – 16 can take part in a whole host of activities including mountain biking over the Quantocks, rafting, den building, bush craft, team games and survival skill on the Outdoor Adventure Days (£23 per day) . For more information visit www.hestercombe.com or call 01823 410236.
Not so much an event but certainly somewhere to take the kids is Dunster Estate’s tall trees trail, where there is a lovely easy going route (suitable for buggies and wheelchairs) amongst the tallest trees in England, as well as other way-marked trails for the more adventurous family. Located at the northern tip of Exmoor National Park and close to the medieval town of Dunster, the trails are all Free to use (Just £1 car park charge for up to 2 hrs, £2 all day). www.DunsterEstate.co.uk
For places to stay while you enjoy the activities below see our Accommodation pages http://www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/where-to-stay
To find out what's on throughout the year see our Events pages http://www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/must-see-and-do/events
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Spring on the Moors
For a copy of the Press Release please click here
More information and images from:
Jennette Baxter Starfish PR starfish@baxter1.clara.net
The daffodils are out, the sheep are lambing and the ponies are foaling. There’s plenty going on in and around Exmoor at this time of the year.
Olympic Torch Relay Route
On what must be one of the most beautiful sections of the Olympic Torch Route, the historic flame will travel through the Exmoor area on 21 May 2012. Heading up from the traditional seaside towns of Ilfracombe and Combe Martin, the relay route passes through the scenic, almost alpine, villages of Lynton and Lynmouth in North Devon and the high heather moorlands of Exmoor National Park before crossing into Somerset via the charming village of Porlock. Meandering through family-friendly Minehead, the flaming torch will go on to the medieval town of Dunster and carry on out past the peaceful natural beauty of the Quantocks to Taunton. Locals and visitors alike will be lining the streets, lanes, hills and moors to witness this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Another once-in-a-lifetime event is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 60 years on the British throne. The spring bank holiday has been moved to Monday 4 June and there will be an extra day off on Tues 5 June, giving an extended weekend and a great opportunity for a celebration.
On the West Somerset coast, Porlock is hosting a Golden Jubilee 1950’s style street party with traditional games & entertainment on June 3 and a music festival on the 4th. Following a Diamond Jubilee Celebration Family Picnic Watchet will be lighting its official Jubilee Beacon at 2200 on June 4th. And Minehead is planning a whole weekend of events for their Diamond Jubilee Festival.
Combe Martin’s unique annual festival, the Hunting of the Earl of Rone has been moved to 1 – 4 June to coincide with the Jubilee weekend. Villagers start hunting the ‘Earl’ on Friday evening and then daily until Monday when he is captured in Lady's Wood at the top of the village and escorted down and thrown into the sea. The origins of this colourful festival are open to speculation but it is a real village celebration and visitors are very welcome to join in the fun.
The 6th Dulverton Folk Festival will be running an extended special over the Jubilee weekend 1 – 5 June 2012. This is an impressive free music and dance festival set in the very pretty town of Dulverton; gateway to Exmoor National Park. A basic campsite is provided by the local school playing field at the cost of £5 per adult per night and £1 per child per night.
Spring Festivals
West Somerset Railway’s Spring Gala on 17 & 18 and 22 – 25 March 2012 is a celebration of travel in a bygone era. Great for railway enthusiasts and those who appreciate the drama of the steam train, the weekend events offer turntable demonstrations and shunts and the opportunity to ride behind many of the visiting and home fleet locomotives. An hourly train shuttle between Minehead and the historic town of Dunster combines the chance to see some of Somerset’s glorious countryside with a visit to this remarkably preserved historic village. (A one day family rover tickets costs from £66.60). During 23–25 March, there will also be a literary gathering of leading book publishers and authors at Minehead Station. Displays, sales and book signings will celebrate the railway genre.
The very popular North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival will take place from 27th April to 6th May this year. There is always a great selection of guided walks led by local rangers and enthusiasts who are happy to impart their vast knowledge of the history, geography and folk lore of the area. New this spring, the organisers have included some extra outdoor interests such as horse riding and viewing bats to the walks. For the less mobile, there will be the chance to take a Tramper ride around the Heddon Valley, and some walks will have breakfast and lunch included to add extra power to the legs. Keep an eye on www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk for the latest updates.
Great Things to Do on Exmoor this Spring
Whilst Exmoor might not be known for its raucous nightlife, there is still plenty to see when the sun goes down. Wimbleball Lake has been nominated as the first Dark Sky Discovery Site on Exmoor and is a fantastic location for stargazing across Exmoor’s dark skies, especially at this time of year. Far from any light pollution, the South West Lakes Trust will be hosting a Star Camp on the nights of 23rd and 24th March 2012 and there will be lots of other starry activities held throughout the year.
Medieval Dunster Castle has a long tradition of Archery and visitors can try their hand at the ‘Have-a-Go’ Archery days happening during the Easter weekend. Costing £3 for 6 arrows, the local archery club will help to hone skills – or at least demonstrate how to hold a bow correctly! The 151st annual Grand Western Archery Championship is held in the parkland at Dunster Castle, and this year this takes place 10th – 17th June 2012.
Bang up-to-date, Coasteering is the latest adrenaline-fuelled sport to reach Exmoor and the scenic and rocky coastline around North Devon is the perfect place to grab some of the action. Exmoor Adventures coasteering guides are qualified NARS Beach Lifeguards with extensive knowledge and experience of the locations used. They will take private groups (£35pp including all the gear for groups of 8) for an exhilarating day to remember.
The new Quantock Cycling Hub at Mill Meadows (established in partnership with AONB) sits on the Taunton Deane Cycle Trail, and offers secure cycle storage, cycle hire, cycle wash down point, information centre with trail guides, cycle cam hire, and guided rides. Uplift transport to/from the hills and local train station makes car free holidays a simple reality.
Interesting Places to Visit
Woody Bay Station hosts a weekend of family fun and home made cakes this Easter (6 – 9 April). Originally opened in 1898 and closed in 1935, this picturesque narrow gauge track currently runs for two miles through the lovely North Devon countryside, and has big plans to rebuild the legendary Lynton to Barnstaple Railway. A family ticket costs £18.
The small but fascinating Porlock Weir Marine Aquarium re-opens on 6 April, offering visitors the chance to spend an hour getting up close and personal with the diverse creatures that populate the local waters. Knowledgeable guides make the whole experience interesting and – uniquely - they also release all the inhabitants back into the sea at the end of the season and collect new ones each year. (Adults £3 Children over 5 £2, under 5’s free).
Porlock’s Open Gardens event on 19 & 20 May 2012 is the chance to discover some charming horticultural secrets. There are over 20 gardens to explore, including some which have never been open to the public before. Art exhibitions, cream teas, plants and book stalls will link the gardens (tickets costs £5 per person). Gardens are also the focus of the picturesque village of Stogumber in the Quantocks, during the weekend of 16 – 17 June. Around 15 gardens ranging from small cottage plots to large country acres open their gates to visitors (£6 per adult, children under 14 free).
For more information on events, places to stay, see, eat & drink see www.visit-Exmoor.co.uk
For a free visitor guide (Exmoor, the Coast and Quantock Hills) call 01643 702624.
Ends January 2012.
For further press information or images please contact:
Jennette Baxter 07738 643211 /Exmoor Tourism Partnership / pr@baxter1.clara.net
Stacey Beaumont / West Somerset Council/ 01984 635285/sbeaumont@westsomerset.gov.uk
Notes to Editors:
About Exmoor Tourism Partnership
The Exmoor Tourism Partnership (ETP) is a not-for-profit organisation comprising Exmoor National Park Authority, Exmoor Tourist Association and West Somerset Council. The partnership works to promote Exmoor National Park, the West Somerset coast and Quantock Hills AONB. To find out more about the ETP visit www.exmoortourismpartnership.co.uk
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New 2012 Exmoor Brochure
For a copy of the Press Release please click here.
More information and images from:
Jennette Baxter Starfish PR starfish@baxter1.clara.net
There are few places so easily accessible where one can escape the conflicts and pressures of modern life, but in this peaceful corner of the southwest the elusive dream can become a reality.
The new 2012 Exmoor, Coast & Quantock Hills brochure (order or download from www.Visit-Exmoor.co.uk) manages to squeeze a whole lot of useful information and evocative imagery into its glossy pages this year. The brochure promotes the area as a high quality visitor destination and it makes for an inspiring read.
Highlighting the area’s natural treasures, from the National Park to the Quantock Hills AONB and the stunning West Somerset coastline, the brochure offers plenty of ideas on how best to appreciate them. And not only during the day. Exmoor National Park was recently awarded Europe’s first 'International Dark Skies Reserve’ status meaning that the area is ‘possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment’.
Exmoor is great to visit any time of the year, and each season has its own appeal. Bursting into spring, Exmoor’s Snowdrop Valley, once a secret only known to locals now attracts visitors from all over the UK. The North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival takes place 27 April until 6 May with a great selection of walks for all levels. The summer and autumn are filled with local fairs and carnivals and winter, with Dunster by Candlelight and Dulverton by Starlight during the first weekend in December, is quite magical. Holidaymakers wishing to plan their trip can refer to the events and festivals listings detailed in the brochure.
A unique Exmoor event will be happening this year on 21 May 2012 when the Olympic Torch Relay Route passes through Ilfracombe, Combe Martin, Lynton, Lynmouth, Porlock, Minehead, Dunster, Carhampton, Washford, Williton and Crowcombe.
Adrenalin junkies will love the Active Exmoor section which has details on mountain bike challenges, trail running, climbing and watersports as well as the relatively new adventures of geocaching and coasteering. Walking, horseriding and fishing opportunities abound in this area too.
Our local food producers are passionate about their produce, and the lively farmers markets and tempting farm shops showcase the best local food and drink. The Exmoor Food Festival at the beginning of October brings together all that is fresh and tasty in the area.
There are plenty of tips and advice on things to do and places to explore that are fun and free and where visitors will be able to discover the rich history of the countryside.
Exmoor 2012 is a not-for-profit publication backed by the Exmoor Tourism Partnership, which comprises Exmoor National Park Authority, West Somerset Council and the Exmoor Tourist Association, and is part of the marketing plan to promote and enhance the area’s tourism industry.
Ends 16 December 2011.
Further details and images from: Jennette Baxter, Starfish PR, starfish@baxter1.clara.net 07738 643211
Or
Stacey Beaumont Media, PR & Communications, West Somerset Council
sbeaumont@westsomerset.gov.uk 01984 635285
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Exmoor’s Snowdrop Valley 4 – 26 Feb 2012
Once a secret only known to locals, the transformation of the banks of the River Avill into Exmoor's Snowdrop Valley every February now attracts visitors from all over the UK. A beautiful carpet of white snowdrops heralds the beginning of spring as these tiny flowers push through the damp Exmoor earth to the fresh clean air of a new year.
Believed to have been brought to this area by the Benedictine Monks from nearby Dunster Priory, the snowdrops are a symbol of purity, and in medieval times, were an important part of the Christian festival of Candlemas, which celebrated the purification of the Virgin Mary.
The roads in this part of Exmoor are very narrow so the only way into the valley is via a regular park and ride bus from Wheddon Cross. Alternatively visitors can take a walk along the specially marked 20 minute scenic route. Visitors should allow around 1 ½ hours and wear waterproof footwear for the round trip.
In a new venture for 2012 the West Somerset Railway will be operating a combined steam train and coach connection to see the spring flowers. Leave from Bishops Lydeard Station to Dunster by steam train and take a coach for a moorland journey to Snowdrop Valley. Once there one can either take the optional bus tour or enjoy a fresh walk through the Valley.
Refreshments are available in the village, and new for this year Exmoor House will be opening their fabulous dining room as a tea shop, serving delicious homemade snacks and light lunches, soup, cakes and coffee. Booking is advisable.
More details of things to see and do and accommodation in Exmoor, Quantocks and the West Somerset Coast area can be found at www.Visit-Exmoor.co.uk
Ends 6 December 2011.
More information and images from:
Jennette Baxter Starfish PR starfish@baxter1.clara.net
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Visitors get all charged up on Exmoor and the Quantocks
Visitors to Exmoor and the Quantocks are getting all charged up this week as a new electric bicycle e-bike scheme is launched. Exmoor Unplugged, an exciting new electric cycle hire project, launches its pilot scheme this week. The project is designed to encourage locals and visitors alike to enjoy the countryside sustainably whilst doing local businesses a power of good.
Local accommodation providers the Yarn Market Hotel in Dunster and the Old Cider House in Nether Stowey are the first businesses in the area to sign up to the project. From them members of the public can hire eco-friendly electric bicycles and cycle along beautiful recommended routes to pubs, cafes and restaurants in the area.
Antony Brunt, owner of Yarn Market Hotel, said, “When you get out of your car and onto an electric bike you see more, hear more and enjoy more. It’s like having the wind behind you all the way. The bikes do the hard work up the hills, whilst you can enjoy the simple pleasures of nature in a sustainable way.”
Ian Pearson, of the Old Cider House, added, “And because the electric motor only kicks in once the bike is being pedalled, our hirers are getting a gentle, healthy workout.”
Currently, Exmoor Unplugged is also establishing a network of charging points across Exmoor and the Quantocks. Participating businesses will benefit from the extra custom while hirers recharge both their own batteries and those of their electric bicycles.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Exmoor Unplugged project, please contact Juliet Moulton, Communications Officer, on 07896 746887 .
Notes for Editors
Exmoor Unplugged is a project run by Climate Action West, which has been set up to benefit the community through the reduction of the threat of climate change. The project is supported by Exmoor National Park, Quantocks AONB and funded by SWRDA, Somerset County Council, DEFRA, the EU and The Levels and Moors Local Action for Rural Communities (LARC) Scheme.
Electric bicycles are an eco-friendly and sustainable way of travelling. They are powered by lithium ion batteries, which can be charged from an ordinary 13 amp household plug for about 20p. The range of a fully charged battery varies according to the route, but it is around 20miles or more. Even if a battery runs out, the cycles can still be pedalled like an ordinary bicycle.
Exmoor Unplugged E-bikes come complete with helmets, lock, panniers, spares and tools. Full breakdown cover is provided and the bikes and riders are fully insured.
For more information please contact Juliet Moulton, Exmoor Unplugged Communications Officer, on 07896 746887 or email: juliet.moulton@hotmail.co.uk
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Christmas Wonderland
in Greater Exmoor
There’s a whole heap of Christmassy goings on in Exmoor and the West Somerset Coast this December.
Dunster by Candlelight
Dunster by Candlelight is eagerly looked forward to, and takes place on the first Friday and Saturday in December, this year the 2nd and 3rd. Kicking off at 5:30pm on Friday evening colourful stilt walkers will lead the Lantern lighting procession through the remarkably preserved medieval village. During both evenings street entertainers including Carol Singers and Morris Dancers, samba drummers and choirs, glow artists and face painters will join the festive occasion, and local celebrity Johnny Kingdom will be popping in too. Most of Dunster’s shops will be open for Christmas shopping, and street stalls will offer evening refreshments. Entrance is free, although you will have to pay for the Park & Ride buses operating from local towns and villages as there is no parking (or cars) in Dunster during the event. All profits from the event go to St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice.
Dulverton by Starlight
Just across the moor, the pretty village of Dulverton holds its own welcome to Christmas on Sunday 4 December. There will be jugglers, bell-ringers, exhibitions and street entertainers and the pretty shops and cosy cafes will be open all day. Santa arrives on his reindeer sleigh at 2:30 and will be on present duty until 5pm. In the evening the whole place is transformed into a twinkling delight of white lights, Christmas trees and carol singers followed by festive fireworks at 6:30pm.
Make Tracks for Christmas
Travelling at great speed in an open sleigh on Christmas Eve is one thing, but Santa also enjoys a ride on a Steam Train. The West Somerset Railway’s Santa Steam Specials are eagerly looked forward to by kids of all ages. Visitors can choose to meet Santa on board the train or in his grotto, where the man himself will present them with a special gift. (£12 per adult and £10 per child weekends in December) For more details visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk
Meanwhile over at Woody Bay Station, children can also meet Santa and enjoy a ride on the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, one of the worlds most famous and picturesque narrow gauge railways. The ticket price also includes a Punch and Judy and Magic Show. From £8.50.
From late night shopping events to roving carollers, traditional theatre and street pantomime to candle and starlight, Exmoor is a great festive choice this December. ***********************************************************************************
Spooky Halloween haunts and half-term mischief
in Greater Exmoor this October
Exmoor and the West Somerset Coast are ideal for an autumn half-term holiday. The glorious colours of the leaves are at their best all over the National Park, and especially along the River Lyn near Lynton and Lynmouth. The West Somerset Steam Railway is a great half term treat for all the family and then there is Halloween……
Ghostly Story Telling and Ghoulish Tours at Dunster
A rolling series of ghostly tales will unfold throughout the castle crypt and other spooky hideouts at Historic Dunster Castle in Exmoor this Autumn (11am – 3pm 22/23 Oct and 29/30 October normal admission applies). And If these ghoulish tales get you in the mood for more spine-tingling terror, take part in an evening Ghost Tour in this, the most haunted of castles. Don’t forget to bring your torch, and check the batteries! (Tours last approx 50 minutes £10 per adult and £5 per child. Call 01643821314 to book).
When Good turns Bad at Hestercombe
Charming Hestercombe Gardens turns really mean this October (22 – 30) with the Hestercombe’s Spooky Trail delivering a nasty surprise around every corner! The Landscape Gardens will be brimming with witches and spiders, black cats and skulls – complete the quiz to escape the evil ! And for older visitors, Hestercombe’s Night of Terror promises a never-to-be-forgotten tour of fear. (Tours last around 45 minutes, £7 per adult, £6 per child. Call 01823 413923 to book a slot).
Insect Fun
For gentler Halloween fun visit the Quince Honey Farm in South Molton. Open between 10 – 4pm on Sunday 30 Oct, visitors can not only enjoy one of the country’s best exhibitions of bees and follow the antics of the tropical leaf cutter ants, but also take part in the Quince Farm Stocks, Apple Grabbing, Trick or Treat tombola, face-painting and watch live spiders, snakes and scorpions. Costs £3 for adults and £2 for children. For places to stay nearby www.Visit-Exmoor.co.uk
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PORLOCK ARTS FESTIVAL 8th – 11th September 2011
Now in its 9th Year, the Porlock Arts Festival has become a firm diary fixture for arts lovers. Set in the beautiful Somerset village of Porlock, surrounded by the Exmoor hills and overlooking the sea towards Wales, few festivals can boast such a picturesque location.
Kicking off with ‘ Explorers' Evening’, local author, philanthropist and traveller Sir Christopher Ondaatje discusses his new book The Last Colonial: Curious Adventures and Stories from a Vanishing World, followed by Stanley Johnson, author and former MP, who will tell of his recent climb up Mt Kilimanjaro and present his new book Survival: Saving Endangered Migratory Species.
Although initially a literary event, the Porlock Arts Festival, whose patron Margaret Drabble lives nearby, has gradually morphed to include painting, poetry, music and other performing arts. On Friday evening, the immensely popular New Scorpion Band perform a musical celebration of ballads and close harmony songs, instrumental tunes, stories and folk drama to entertain the crowds.
A trio of contemporary writers take to the stage on Saturday including Ali Smith, who has been short-listed for both the Orange and the Booker Prize, talking about her latest book There But For The. Philip Hensher discusses his new novel King of the Badgers (described as ‘brilliant, sustained and weirdly captivating’ by the Spectator). Hensher is also a regular broadcaster and contributor to newspapers and journals. Poet and novelist Jackie Kay, who has published several collections of poems, talks about her writing. The Maw Broon Monologues were short-listed for the 2010 Ted Hughes Award and The Red Dust Road featured as Radio 4's Book of the Week earlier this year.
On Sunday there will be an all-ages Choral Workshop, and throughout the weekend regular Festival features such as the Poetry Picnic, Art Exhibitions and Open Studios will be joined by a Local Authors' Day and a Writers' Forum following on from the successful 2010 events.
For more details visit www.porlockfestival.org or call 01643 863150.
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Minehead Summer Festival - Air Show Spectacular
August 10 2011
It’s a real Air Show spectacular at the Minehead Summer Festival this year. The Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight including a Spitfire, Hurricane and the Lancaster Bomber will ensure all heads are turned skywards. The renowned Red Arrows will perform a breathtaking aeronautical display and the incomparable Red Devils will be parachuting onto Minehead beach. The Sea King helicopter crew has also confirmed they’ll not only be flying but also landing on the seafront so that visitors will be able to look around the helicopter and chat to the pilots.
This fantastic FREE event will also include street entertainment and a market as well as flight simulators, bouncy castles, a display by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, a marching band, Morris men and stalls include arts, craft and food producers.
West Somerset Railway is running an enhanced service, with visitors having a chance to park at the Bishop’s Lydeard station just outside Taunton and let trains from the country’s longest heritage railway take the strain to Minehead. For more information on West Somerset Railway services, visit www.west-Somerset-railway.co.uk
The spectacular display is being brought to Minehead by Butlins with support from the Minehead Events Group (MEG). Julian Highfield, Butlins resort director, said: “Last year’s event was a resounding success and we are making it even bigger and better this year. We are delighted that the Battle of Britain air show will be joining last year’s favourites. We hope that everyone has a great day out in Minehead.”
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Walking Lunch on Exmoor this Autumn
North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival links with Food Festival
This year the popular Exmoor Walking Festival (30 September – 3 October) links with the Exmoor Food Festival to offer even more reasons for visitors to come to the South West this autumn.
For those who don’t want to pack sandwiches this year the Walking Festival has lots of new walks incorporating the foodie theme. The ‘Steps to Caratacus Stone’ is a moderate paced 4 hour walk visiting the ancient Tarr Steps of Exmoor and the Caratacus Standing Stone at Winsford Hill before returning for lunch at the excellent AA 5*Tarr Farm Inn. The new ‘Barrows to Real Ales’ is a fairly easy stroll to visit one of the major barrow sites on the moor before descending to the Poltimore Arms for a delicious home-cooked lunch. And the moderate to brisk 6 hour romp of ‘Beacons, Look- Outs and Coastal Combes’ includes a special lunch at Hindon Organic Farm.
With 24 walks to choose from over the four days the festival, now in its 11th year, has something for everyone. There are ranger-led walks, fascinating heritage trails, and flora and fauna and nature walks which meander over rolling hills and moorlands. Rivers, waterfalls, forest and wildlife, woodlands and valleys and breathtaking coastal scenery help to make each walk unforgettable. All the walks are graded by pace, difficulty, distance and duration.
Local guides, including rangers and wardens, impart their vast knowledge of the history, geography and folk lore of the area as walkers cover a stunningly beautiful variety of terrain in North Devon, Exmoor, the West Somerset Coast and the Quantocks.
View all the walks and book online on the Festival website www.exmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk . Or phone to book on 01271 863001.
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What’s on for kids?
Summer in the Quantock Hills
Designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1956, the beauty of the Quantocks was spotted early on. 55 years later there’s even more ways to appreciate the area’s unique and timeless appeal for visitors of all ages.
Persuading children to just ‘go for a walk’ is sometimes tricky. However promise them the chance to see wild deer and ponies and you might be on to a winner. Both are found all over the Quantocks. Try the Cothelstone Hill walk (2.5 miles, map downloadable from www.Quantockhills.com) where a 12 strong herd are based nearby and you are pretty much guaranteed a photo opportunity. Staple Plain and Crowcombe Gate are also great for viewings.
Kilve beach, known as the area’s ‘Jurassic Coastline’, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a great place to visit for a free day out. Take a picnic and enjoy the views and the fantastic rock formations, whilst the kids hunt for fossils and ammonites dating back millions of years.
The Quantock Hills boasts some of the UK’s finest mountain bike trails with routes and paths suitable for everyone. Follow the well-marked bridleways or get a group together and contact Quantock Adventures (Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.to hire bikes, equipment and book a local guide.
For those who prefer something a little more relaxing, families can admire the beautiful Somerset scenery from the comfort of their carriage on the famous West Somerset Steam Railway (www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk). Look out for weekly trips to Hestercombe. These historic gardens offer active and creative sessions throughout the summer holidays. Arts and crafts, rafting, climbing and even paintballing are available this year www.hestercombe.com