Exmoor: England’s Only Coastal National Park
Exmoor is one of England’s 10 National Parks. But it’s the only one with a coastline. It’s also one of England’s smallest National Park, covering both west Somerset and North Devon. It’s full of fast-flowing rivers, deep wooded valleys and heather-covered moors.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe. If at the coast, read our post on keeping dogs safe by the seaside.
Don’t Disturb Exmoor Wild Ponies
Like Dartmoor, Exmoor is known for its wild ponies that graze the open grassland. One of England’s oldest breeds.
Never feed or disturb wild ponies. They can eat on their own, and there are local experts to keep an eye on them. If any need help, notify Exmoor Pony Society and the Moorland Mousie Trust.
Exmoor was Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, free from light pollution. The ancient landscape (in some places over 200 million years old) is also home to large herds of wild red deer.
Exmoor has the highest sea cliffs in mainland Britain and Tarr Steps (the longest remaining clapper bridge, dating back to 1000 BC).
Here also you’ll find endangered butterflies (the heath fritillary is here, found in only four places in the UK, due to loss of habitat).
On the Exmoor coast are the twinned villages of Lynton and Lymouth, known for the world’s steepest (and fully water-powered) funicular railway (cliff lift).
