the UK🇬🇧 | national parksExmoor National Parkcoastal moorland, wooded combes, wild red deer | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Exmoor
👀 For curious travelersnational park ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 24, 2026

Most people picture Exmoor National Park as a poor cousin to Dartmoor or the Lake District, but that’s wrong; it’s quieter, not lesser. Exmoor sits in southwest England, straddling west Somerset and north Devon on the Bristol Channel coast in the UK. For backpackers, it’s a low-drama, high-reward park: rolling moorland, steep sea cliffs, oak woodlands, and real chances of spotting red deer and Exmoor ponies, but no big “summit trophy.” Trails are excellent for multi-day hikes, especially linking the moor with the South West Coast Path, yet public transport is patchy and hitching or planning ahead matters. There’s no entrance fee, wild camping is technically restricted and needs discretion, and budget beds cluster in villages like Lynmouth and Porlock. Compared with Dartmoor it’s less bleak, more coastal; compared with the Lake District it’s cheaper, softer, and far less crowded, but also less dramatic if you’re chasing big-mountain scenery.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 the UK Travel Guide.

Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 80

Get your UK guide

145 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (525 pages)

Loading the map 🌍

CLICK TO FILTER

cities

towns

villages

landmarks

national parks

hikes

beaches

attractions

festivals

regions

SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL

💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 national park in the UKWhy visitors keep coming back

Backpackers flock to Exmoor National Park in the UK for its blend of independent exploration and budget-friendly options. The park offers a range of campsites and hostels nearby, making it easy to keep costs down while enjoying the great outdoors. With over 600 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, you’ll find trail variety that suits every skill level, from gentle coastal paths to challenging moorland hikes.

This park is particularly appealing for self-guided travelers. You can easily navigate the trails without the need for organized tours, allowing for a more personal experience with nature. Just be prepared for the weather—it can change quickly. Bring layers and a solid map. By avoiding the tourist traps and embracing the park’s raw beauty, you’ll preserve both your energy and budget for the moments that truly matter.

Want to include Exmoor National Park in your the UK route?
Create a personalized the UK itinerary that includes Exmoor National Park and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Dunkery Beacon — The highest point on Exmoor (about 519m) with proper panoramic views over moor, sea and the Somerset Levels. Great for a sunrise or sunset walk; the short climbs reward you with wide horizons and lots of moorland birds.
Valley of Rocks — A dramatic, dry rocky valley dropping down to the coast, full of jagged tors, sea views and nesting seabirds; it’s brilliant for photography and short loop walks along the South West Coast Path. This is my personal favourite — I love the wild, almost lunar feel and the easy access from Lynton.
Heddon’s Mouth & Valley — A steep, wooded gorge that finishes on a pebbly, sheltered beach; the river, waterfalls and cliffside paths make for a classic Exmoor rivers-to-sea hike. Keep an eye out for otters and kingfishers in the quieter pools.

… read more 👉

Dunkery Beacon — The highest point on Exmoor (about 519m) with proper panoramic views over moor, sea and the Somerset Levels. Great for a sunrise or sunset walk; the short climbs reward you with wide horizons and lots of moorland birds.
Valley of Rocks — A dramatic, dry rocky valley dropping down to the coast, full of jagged tors, sea views and nesting seabirds; it’s brilliant for photography and short loop walks along the South West Coast Path. This is my personal favourite — I love the wild, almost lunar feel and the easy access from Lynton.
Heddon’s Mouth & Valley — A steep, wooded gorge that finishes on a pebbly, sheltered beach; the river, waterfalls and cliffside paths make for a classic Exmoor rivers-to-sea hike. Keep an eye out for otters and kingfishers in the quieter pools.
Watersmeet & Lynmouth — Ancient woodland and a dramatic river gorge where the East and West Lyn meet; shady trails, waterfalls and picnic spots make it a lovely half-day wander. Drop down to Lynmouth village afterwards for the cliff railway and coastal cliffs.
Tarr Steps — A prehistoric clapper bridge across the River Barle set in peaceful oak and alder woods. The walkways along the river are gentle, scenic and packed with history — perfect if you want something easy but atmospheric.
Porlock Bay & Culbone — Wide saltmarshes and coastline with long, empty sands and good birdwatching; the tiny remote Culbone Church and steep footpaths add a proper sense of seclusion. Excellent for low-key coastal walks and dramatic tidal views.
Exmoor Ponies & Moorland — The free-roaming ponies are iconic; wander the heather and peat bogs to see them grazing alongside red deer, skylarks and other upland species. The moorland feels huge and open — brilliant for stargazing and that moody British wilderness vibe.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for United Kingdom

Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 145 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

Weather: Exmoor’s weather is famously changeable. Summers (June to August) bring milder, drier days but expect rain any time. Winters are cold and wet, often damp enough to sap your energy fast.

Temperature: Summer highs hover around 18-21°C (64-70°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Winter temps dip to 1-5°C (34-41°F), which can make trails slippery and less enjoyable.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 16 hours of light, giving you plenty of time to explore. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, forcing early stops and limiting your pace.

Crowds: Peak season (July-August) sees a surge of day-trippers and families, especially on weekends. Spring and early autumn offer quieter trails and a more authentic experience.

Seasonal Activities: Spring brings wildflower

… read more 👉

Weather: Exmoor’s weather is famously changeable. Summers (June to August) bring milder, drier days but expect rain any time. Winters are cold and wet, often damp enough to sap your energy fast.

Temperature: Summer highs hover around 18-21°C (64-70°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Winter temps dip to 1-5°C (34-41°F), which can make trails slippery and less enjoyable.

Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 16 hours of light, giving you plenty of time to explore. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, forcing early stops and limiting your pace.

Crowds: Peak season (July-August) sees a surge of day-trippers and families, especially on weekends. Spring and early autumn offer quieter trails and a more authentic experience.

Seasonal Activities: Spring brings wildflower blooms and lambing season, adding charm but also muddy paths. Autumn offers crisp air and fewer bugs but shorter days.

Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in summer. Booking outside peak months can save you a significant chunk of your budget.

Pro-tip: Aim for late May or early October—mild weather, manageable crowds, and better prices. You’ll keep your energy for the trails, not battling the elements or crowds.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

united-kingdom-national-park-exmoor-national-park

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutthe UK Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.

The digital guide (525 pages) contains:
✅ 145 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 7, 14 & 21-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ Local customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place

Save weeks of stressful planning

Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.

By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout

Best Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025

What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fantastic, amazing amount of information!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Awesome resource, thank you!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love this! Well done, great idea.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This might be the best website I've ever seen.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

10/10 very good

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is very impressive! Good work.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

Exmoor National Park offers a few solid options for backpackers looking to stay close to nature without breaking the bank. Inside the park, you’ll find basic campsites like the Exmoor National Park Campsite, which provides a no-frills experience with essential amenities. It’s a great spot if you want to wake up surrounded by the moors.

For a bit more comfort, consider the charming village of Lynmouth. It’s just outside the park and has several hostels and budget-friendly B&Bs. The Lynmouth Hostel is a popular choice, offering a cozy atmosphere and easy access to hiking trails.

Don’t overlook Minehead, a larger town nearby. It has a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to hostels. Staying here gives you the chance to explore the coast as well.

Be mindful of booking in advance, especially during peak seasons. Prices can spike, and options dwindle quickly. Prioritize your stay based on your hiking plans, and you’ll maximize your time in this beautiful park.

Best hostels in the UK

Best quality hotels in the UK

👛 Costs (as of 6 May 2025)Typical daily expenses

Exmoor National Park in the UK offers a range of experiences, but costs can add up if you’re not careful.

Entry to the park itself is free. However, if you plan to park your vehicle, expect to pay around £2 to £5 (approximately $2.50 to $6.50) for a day. Some popular spots may charge more, especially during peak season.

If you’re considering guided tours, prices typically range from £20 to £50 ($25 to $65) per person, depending on the length and type of tour. For those looking to stay overnight, camping fees are around £10 to £25 ($13 to $32) per night, while local B&Bs or inns can run from £70 to £150 ($90 to $195) per night.

Food costs can vary widely. A meal at a local pub might set you back £10 to £20 ($13 to $26), while a packed lunch from a shop could be around £5 to £10 ($6.50 to … read more 👉

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsExploring Exmoor: trails, terrain, and views

Exmoor National Park is a gem for hikers, offering a mix of dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling moorlands, and lush woodlands. The scenery is often breathtaking, with views that stretch for miles, especially from the heights of the moors. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate spotting red deer, Exmoor ponies, and a variety of bird species, making every hike a little adventure of its own. The terrain varies quite a bit, with some areas being quite rugged while others are more forgiving, catering to different skill levels.

One of the standout trails is The Coleridge Way. Here’s a quick breakdown:

… read more 👉

Length: 51 miles
Estimated Duration: 4-5 days
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Key Features: Beautiful views of the Quantock Hills, historic sites, and charming villages
Terrain: Mixed, including paths through woodlands and along coastal cliffs

Another great option is Heddon Valley Walk:

Length: 6 miles
Estimated Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Key Features: Stunning river views and a chance to see wildlife along the way
Terrain: Mostly well-defined paths with some steep sections

Getting to Exmoor is fairly straightforward via public transport. The nearest train stations are in Barnstaple or Taunton, and from there, local buses can take you into the park. It can get a bit crowded during peak season, especially on weekends, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, try to hit the trails early in the morning or on weekdays. There’s no entrance fee for the park itself, which is a nice bonus for budget travelers. Just pack your snacks and enjoy the great outdoors!

⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Exmoor

Exmoor National Park is generally straightforward for backpackers, but a few realities can enhance your experience. The weather can shift quickly, so pack layers and a reliable waterproof jacket. The terrain varies; some trails are steep and rocky, requiring good footwear and a steady pace. Navigation can be tricky in fog, so a map and compass are essential, even if you’re using a GPS.

Wildlife encounters are rare but respectful behavior is key. Keep your distance from livestock and avoid feeding animals. As for preparation, many first-timers underestimate the park’s remoteness; ensure you have enough food and water, especially on longer hikes. With these considerations, you’ll be set to enjoy Exmoor’s beauty without unnecessary stress.

Check Country Safety

Other British national parks near Exmoor

Explore more nearby:

Dartmoor National Park—granite tors, wild ponies, peat bogs| 65 km away
Brecon Beacons—open moorland, limestone caves, waterfalls| 84 km away
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park—sea cliffs, sandy coves, coastal path| 125 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for the UK including Exmoor and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all national parks

Or checkout all the UK has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore the UK

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

Exmoor National Park is a treasure for anyone who loves rugged coastlines and rolling moors. The wildlife here is a real treat—spotting a red deer can make your day. But be prepared for the weather; it can change in an instant. Bring layers and a good waterproof jacket. Embrace the unpredictability, and you’ll find the park’s charm shines brightest when you’re ready for anything.

✈️ When did I visit the UK?
United Kingdom being my neighbour country with just the North Sea separating us, I visited it multiple times. In May 2015 I had a car trip through Southern England and Wales. In July 2023 I backpacked through Northern Ireland and in October 2023 I visited a friend I met in Pakistan, who showed me around Isle of Skye and Ullapool.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in the UK, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Get full UK guide •

the UK🇬🇧 | national parksExmoor National Parkcoastal moorland, wooded combes, wild red deer | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Exmoor
👀 For curious travelersnational park ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 24, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 national park in the UKWhy visitors keep coming back

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

Things to do near Exmoor National Park

Bath Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with Local Guide, £220 per group

Stonehenge Private Tour - Half-Day Tour from Bath

Private Tour of West Cornwall - Highly Varied Full Day Experience

Surfing, Coasteering & Glamping in Cornwall

Taster Bodyboard Lesson in Newquay, Cornwall

E-Bike excursion to Old Harry Rock

Private Day Tour from Bath to the Captivating Cotswolds

PRIVATE TOUR of DORSET | UP TO 8 Passengers

Life Drawing Classes

Bath: Local Pubs & Historic Sights Walking Tour (3h)

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutthe UK Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

👛 Costs (as of 6 May 2025)Typical daily expenses

🥾 TrailsExploring Exmoor: trails, terrain, and views

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Exmoor

Other British national parks near Exmoor

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

the UK🇬🇧 | national parksExmoor National Parkcoastal moorland, wooded combes, wild red deer | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Exmoor👀 For curious travelersnational park ranked #12By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 24, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ed9469')

✨ Why go?Ranked #12 national park in the UKaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ed9938')Why visitors keep coming backaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ed993e')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edafac')Key sights and experiences for travelersaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edafb4')

Things to do near Exmoor National Park

Bath Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with Local Guide, £220 per group

Stonehenge Private Tour - Half-Day Tour from Bath

Private Tour of West Cornwall - Highly Varied Full Day Experience

Surfing, Coasteering & Glamping in Cornwall

Taster Bodyboard Lesson in Newquay, Cornwall

E-Bike excursion to Old Harry Rock

Private Day Tour from Bath to the Captivating Cotswolds

PRIVATE TOUR of DORSET | UP TO 8 Passengers

Life Drawing Classes

Bath: Local Pubs & Historic Sights Walking Tour (3h)

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edb906')Seasonal considerations and timingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edb90b')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutthe UK Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edd25d')How to pick the right areaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edd264')

👛 Costs (as of 6 May 2025)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edd8b6')Typical daily expensesaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683edd8ba')

🥾 TrailsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ef2c97')Exploring Exmoor: trails, terrain, and viewsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ef2ca0')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ef2e28')Safety Tips and Common Scams in ExmooraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683ef2e2c')

Other British national parks near ExmooraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683f007c0')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683f00910')Summing up the experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683f00914')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683f00960')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6a5f683f00963')

Backpacking in Exmoor
👀 For curious travelersnational park ranked #12
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 24, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #12 national park in the UKWhy visitors keep coming back

💡 HighlightsKey sights and experiences for travelers

🌤️ When to go?Seasonal considerations and timing

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

👛 Costs (as of 6 May 2025)Typical daily expenses

🥾 TrailsExploring Exmoor: trails, terrain, and views

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Exmoor

Other British national parks near Exmoor

We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?