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
DesignationNational Park
Total Wilderness Area267,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse 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 60 miles.

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, Devon
⌖ 6.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Molton, Devon

North Molton in Devon offers hikers, bikers, and adventurers a chance to roam moorlands and woodlands on the edge of Exmoor. Rustic trails, rich wildlife, and open skies make it a secluded outdoor retreat.

Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Wheddon Cross, England, United Kingdom
⌖ 6.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wheddon Cross, England, United Kingdom

Wheddon Cross is a peaceful village perched on the edge of Exmoor National Park, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and wildlife watching. Its scenic moorlands and forests offer year-round adventure off the usual tourist trail.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
South Molton, Devon
⌖ 8.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

South Molton, Devon

South Molton is a gateway to North Devon’s wild heart, offering hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and paddling adventures amid rolling moors and peaceful rivers perfect for escaping crowds.

Spring through Autumn
Explore Town
Porlock Weir, England, United Kingdom
⌖ 9.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Porlock Weir, England, United Kingdom

Porlock Weir is a charming coastal village on England’s rugged southwest shore, ideal for hiking scenic coastal paths, paddling calm bays, and fishing from a historic harbor. Rich wildlife and tranquil waters make it an outdoor gem.

Late Spring through Early Autumn
Explore Town
Minehead, England, United Kingdom
⌖ 11.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Minehead, England, United Kingdom

Minehead offers a unique coastal adventure base with access to stunning cliff walks, mountain biking on Exmoor’s wild moorlands, and paddling along the Bristol Channel shore. Ideal for outdoor lovers seeking variety along England’s southwest coast.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Minehead, Somerset
⌖ 11.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Minehead, Somerset

Minehead is a seaside town at the gateway to Exmoor National Park, offering hiking, biking, paddling, and coastal adventures. Its blend of beach and moorland makes it a great base for exploring varied outdoor landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore 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.

Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding - Wimbleball Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Minehead, England
KayakADV Bookable

Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding - Wimbleball Lake

Spend 2.5 hours paddling Wimbleball Lake or along Exmoor’s coast with friendly, qualified instructors. Perfect for ages 8+, this guided kayak and SUP session mixes practical coaching, wildlife spotting, and scenic exploration for all skill levels.

KayakAges 8+ • 2.5 hs • Explore the beautiful lake • Suitable for all abilitiesCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip