Winter on Exmoor
Why winter on Exmoor is magnificently magical
Winter on Exmoor
There is something incredibly special about crisp and clear winter days on Exmoor. It is such a great time to explore the dramatic Exmoor coast or head out onto the vast sweeping open moorland. The glorious woodlands in the river valleys take on a different character once the leaves have fallen from the trees, and there can be few more satisfying sounds as they crunch underfoot after a frost. We think winter on Exmoor should definitely not be missed!
Exhilarating Winter Walks
There is so much to do and enjoy on Exmoor all throughout the winter months, when there is a nip in the air, and the chance of snow makes heading out for a family walk just that bit more exhilarating. Exmoor has lots of pretty woodland walks; meander through the ancient Horner Woods, explore the pretty Watersmeet trail in Lynmouth, take a circular walk from Dulverton or Withypool along the winding River Barle, as it chatters its way past the ancient, medieval (or even Bronze age) Tarr Steps, the longest clapper bridge in Britain, or stride out on the Exe Valley way.
For those looking for something a little more strenuous, there is plenty of moorland walking; head to Dunkery Hill and climb up to Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, at 519 metres. On a clear day, the panorama at the top is breath-taking, you can see the Quantock Hills and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales, and as far as Dartmoor to the south – it is well worth the effort of the uphill ramble to get there! For other options to walk across the open moorland, County Gate provides ample opportunities to soak up sea views, and then aim for the coast for some steeper woodland paths.
Festive Cheer
In December, our Exmoor towns and villages come alive, with illuminated shop fronts full of festive lights, and Christmas markets aplenty. Our rural communities do Christmas exceptionally well and there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you are planning to visit Exmoor this winter, the temperatures may be chilly, but you’ll be sure of a very warm welcome. Don't miss the Santa Express at West Somerset Railway, running from 5th - 24th December 2020!
Taste The Flavours of Exmoor
The joy of wrapping up for a bracing January Exmoor walk with the family, or the dogs, followed by a trip to the pub, with a roaring log fire, and tucking into some hearty food, is an experience not to be missed. We have lots of wonderful pubs, restaurants, and cafes across the area, many are dog friendly, and welcome walkers and cyclists.
Visit Snowdrop Valley
A winter highlight has to be the glorious Snowdrop Valley. Wheddon Cross comes into its own each February when North Hawkwell Wood becomes carpeted with a dazzling display of snowdrops. There are various walking routes that take in the woodland and the snowdrops, including a circular walk alongside the River Avill. And as snowdrops poke their heads up through the frozen soil in late January and February, which are among our wetter months, be prepared for rather muddy walking boots!
Explore Exmoor's Starscape
It’s not only the daytime that we enjoy here on Exmoor in wintertime; as the daylight hours dwindle, night-time provides equal opportunities for activities. Exmoor National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, an accreditation it has held since 2011. On a clear winter’s night, the skies can be absolutely incredible, with the absence of light pollution providing access to an exceptional starscape of familiar winter constellations.