Best Hiking Routes in Exmoor National Park: Scenic Trails for Adventurers

Exmoor National Park, in southwest England, is a hiker’s dream. Its mix of rugged coastlines, open moorlands, and lush woodlands offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely walk, these trails showcase Exmoor’s best.

Why Hike in Exmoor?

Exmoor offers breathtaking scenery, from sweeping moorlands to England’s highest sea cliffs. Along the way, you may spot wildlife like Exmoor ponies, red deer, or rare birds. With diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails, Exmoor is perfect for all levels of hikers.

Best Hiking Routes in Exmoor National Park

Heddon’s Mouth Circular Walk

A calm bridge walk in heddon’s mouth

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 5km
• Time: 2 hours
  A gentle walk along the river to Heddon’s Mouth, ending at a picturesque cove. This trail offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Dunkery Beacon Walk

A shot of the Beacon that the walk get it’s name from

• Difficulty: Medium
• Length: 8km
• Time: 2 hours
  Dunkery Beacon Walk is known for panoramic views of the moorlands and Bristol Channel. Keep an eye out for wild Exmoor ponies along the way.

Tarr Steps Circular Walk

The tarr steps are a perfect spot if you’ve got an interest in the park’s history

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3km
• Time: 1 hour
  The Tarr steps are scenic, family-friendly walk through ancient woodlands and along the River Barle, crossing the historic Tarr Steps clapper bridge.

Valley of the Rocks Walk

The valley of rocks offers some of the best cliff views in the country

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3km
• Time: 1 hour
  A short but striking walk through dramatic rock formations with stunning coastal views the Valley of rocks are just a stone’s throw from Lynton.

Watersmeet Trail

From the top of watersmeet, you can see where it get it’s name

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 6km
• Time: 2 hours
  This riverside trail takes you through ancient woodland to the picturesque Watersmeet, where two rivers converge. It’s a serene walk with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Local Tips

• Best Picnic Spots: Enjoy riverside views near Tarr Steps or cliff-top ocean views along the South West Coast Path.
• Wildlife Spotting: Look for Exmoor ponies, red deer, and peregrine falcons, especially in early mornings or late afternoons.
• Post-Hike Treats: Try a local pub, like The Rockford Inn, for hearty meals after a day on the trails.
• Historical Sites: Visit Dunster Castle or explore Iron Age forts like Haddon Hill.

Exmoor National Park offers something for every hiker, from short, scenic routes to challenging treks. For up-to-date trail maps and route planning, use the Hiiker app to make the most of your adventure in Exmoor’s stunning landscape.