MORE THAN JUST DARK SKIES
Sunrise reveals Exmoor to be an expansive realm of natural beauty and creature comforts
While many astronomers flock to Exmoor for its dark night skies, there’s plenty to see and experience across this beautiful region during the daytime too. If hiking is your thing then there are numerous walking routes that will take you through some of the national park’s most picturesque scenery. The walk to the top of Dunkery Beacon, for example, is well worth it, and on a clear summer’s day you’ll be rewarded with incredible views over the surrounding moorland and, on the horizon, the hills of Dartmoor in Devon. The north coast is not to be missed either, especially around Lynmouth and Martinhoe where the coastal path affords breathtaking views of the cliffs and Bristol Channel below. Farther along the coast to the east you’ll find the delightful town of Porlock; the views of the surrounding countryside from the hills to the west of the town are particularly impressive.
If visiting the northeastern corner of Exmoor, Dunster is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring, especially if it’s sunny. As well as a large castle, this beautiful village has a small Exmoor National Park visitor centre and a selection of boutique shops as well as several pubs and tearooms where you can sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
On the southern edge of the national park, the town of Dulverton is another place that should be on the itinerary of every Exmoor explorer. On a sunny day you can sit by the scenic River Barle and watch minnows in the crystal-clear shallows and dippers darting from rock to rock. There’s an Exmoor National Park visitor centre, and for any little stargazers travelling with you there’s also a large play park a short walk over the bridge from town. You’ll also find a good range of places to eat as well as some charming shops and art galleries.
Finally, if the weather is warm, two fine places to stop for a moment on the moor are Withypool and nearby Landacre Bridge. These spots can get quite busy in the summer but are great places for riverside relaxation.