Exmoor winter walking
A few days in Exmoor. My sister and husband were visiting from Norway. We decided to book an airbnb for some winter walking, exploring an area none of us had been to before. The dog friendly barn in Patchole was wonderfully comfortable with a wood burner and double height living area. A perfect base for winter walking.
Day 1
Hunters Inn to Lynmouth
We began our walk at Hunter’s Inn, stopping for coffee and cake before setting off. From there, we followed the path as it climbed steadily up toward the coast (with only one wrong turn)... We reached the coastline and continued along the cliff path with fantastic views out to sea and along the coast.
The route led us along the cliff tops and then through stretches of trees giving us shelter from the wind. Eventually, we crossed over the river and made our way down to Woody Bay Beach, arriving just in time for a picnic and a well-earned sit-down. By then, everyone was tired and ready to rest - everyone except Basil, who had other ideas and was keen to play. With the beach entirely to ourselves.
Feeling refreshed after our picnic, we packed up and continued on our way. As we walked up into the valley of the rocks into a spectacular landscape, lit by the evening sun. A few goats grazed at the top with the sunset behind.
Walking on the light began to fade, we arrived in Lynmouth at dusk, where the warm glow of the pub lights looked especially inviting after a long and satisfying walk.
12.51 kms, 474 m elevation
Day 2
Combe Martin to Hunter's Inn
Starting off with a steep climb out of Combe Martin, then following the coast path along the cliff tops. Great views but very windy.
We found a sheltered spot for our picnic. Walking on, the sun was low, giving us shadows to play with.
Descending into the valley of Hunter's Inn the sun just caught the tops of the hills. Enjoying the warm fire and comfortable chairs at Hunter's Inn, we stopped for supper.
13.01 kms, 602 m elevation
Day 3
Woolacombe to Croyde and back to Woolacombe
It was a wet day! We wrapped up and headed to the beach. Basil was in heaven. So much space to run around. We walked to the end of the beach and decided to pop into the cafe for a brief warm up (and cake). Then, wrapping up again, we walked on up onto the headland, National Trust, Baggy Point.
We found a hole to shelter and picnic, but didn't stop long. It was still very wet. Walking on to Croyde we arrived on the beach and walked up into the village, deciding to take the back path back to Woolacombe. It was starting to get dark and still raining. Pleased to have headtorches. We arrived back at the van and tried to dry out.
15.19 kms, 281 m elevation
Day 4
Withypool circular walk to Tarr Steps and back
It was another wet day. The river was high and moving fast. We walked along side of it enjoying the rich orange of the autumn bracken.
Then along, through the woods. Until we came to a crossing. With the river so high, the steps weren't passable. Jane and I made a comedy wriggle across a large log while the boys took off their socks and shoes and paddled across.
We continued our walk through the woods, alongside of the river, until reaching Tarr Steps. A very old bridge (dating back to 1000bc).
And it took us straight to the pub! We had a lovely warm up at Tarr Farm Inn, then continued our walk. Eating our sandwiches on the go. It was too wet to stop. Arriving back, at dusk in Withypool, where there was another welcoming pub, The Royal Oak.
13.62 kms, 282 m elevation
Day 5
Simonsbath
It was our final day, we packed up at the barn and headed to Simonsbath. Having enjoyed the coast walks, we wanted to see some Exmoor moorland. It was raining again, so we wrapped up and headed up to the moor. It was fantastically windy and wet. But with a long car journey ahead, we didn't stay out too long. We did catch a glimpse of deer in the distance. After getting back to the van, we went to the Exmoor Forest Inn to dry out before getting on the road.
7.58 kms 85 m elevation
Exmoor really does has it all: charming fishing villages, pebbled and sandy beaches, scenic cliff-top walks, dog-friendly pubs, and wild moorland and you might catch a glimpse of an exmoor pony or a deer.
5 days, 5 picnics, 61.91 Kms