August Bank Holiday Weekend on Exmoor
Make the Most of It
As the heather-covered hills turn a misty late-summer purple, many visitors to Exmoor might just want to pack up a picnic and go for a long walk. With several long-distance trails and myriad shorter paths, the area is a treasure trove for hikers with spectacular views, hidden valleys, leafy glades and cold clear rivers and streams at every turn. However, should your companions need a little extra entertainment we’d recommend the following Top 5 Things to do on Exmoor this Bank Holiday:
Make Friends with a Pony at the Exmoor Pony Centre
Open from 10am – 4pm every day (except Tuesdays & Saturdays) this charming place is around 4 miles from Dulverton, high up on the moors. The Centre are currently looking after about 20 ponies many of which are available for visitors to meet in the yard, paddocks and petting pen. Entrance is free but donations are welcome. www.moorlandmousietrust.org.uk
Ride on the Lynton – Barnstaple Railway
Hop on board a beautiful heritage steam train at Woody Bay Station for a delightful two – mile round trip through the Devon countryside; you might even see a buzzard flying overhead or perhaps a shy deer. You can even see across the sea to Wales on a clear day! Family tickets available. www.lynton-rail.co.uk
Visit BeeWorld at Quince Honey Farm
Nowhere else in the world can you see the inner workings of the honey bee society without layers of protective clothing. BeeWorld is renowned for its up-close exhibition of honey bees and is a real hive (!) of fascinating information, demos, activities and talks. Open 7 days a week in August. www.quincehoneyfarm.co.uk
Learn to SUP or Kayak
This is the time of the year when the water is warmest – yes even in the UK – which may be of some comfort when you are learning to kayak or SUP (Stand UP Paddle boarding is the fastest growing watersport in the world). Come and try it and admire the beautiful surrounds of Combe Martin Bay. Hire a board from www.surfsidekayakhire.co.uk
* Exmoor pony image courtesy of Julia Amies-Green www.WildExmoor.com
