Places to visit
The coast and countryside of Exmoor National Park has so much to offer, I have listed on this page a few of my favourite places to visit which are within easy reach of Porlock. See also our Activities Page for further suggestions…
Porlock and Porlock Weir
Porlock is a charming, picturesque traditional Exmoor village with a strong community spirit located in West Somerset close to the Devon border. Situated in the heart of Exmoor National Park which is an area of outstanding natural beauty. steeped in history and with an abundance of wildlife. Exmoor is the home of the Red Deer and Exmoor pony.
Porlock is surrounded by many beautiful villages with thatched cottages, glorious gardens, unique shops, heather clad moorlands, sparkling streams, rivers and lakes, ancient woodlands, archaeological sites, beaches and dramatic coastline.
There are an abundance of footpaths, bridleways and cycling routes within the Exmoor National Park so Porlock is the perfect location from which to enjoy many activities such as nature and bird watching , walking, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, horse riding, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing sailing or simply taking a leisurely drive through the countryside.
Porlock provides an ideal base for walkers/hikers with numerous woodland, coastal and countryside footpaths directly on our doorstep including the South West Coast Path and Coleridge Way. One of our favourite walks with our dog and grandchildren is a circular route taking us through the woods to Porlock Weir where we stop for a drink or some lunch, returning along the coastal footpath and across the Porlock marshes which is a favoured location for bird watching.
Porlock offers an assortment of country pubs, restaurants and cafes where one can indulge in delicious cream teas, seafood specialties as well as traditional local fayre. There is an assortment of interesting shops and Doverhay Manor Museum. Being a village community activities take place throughout the year, eg carnival, duck race, fete, antique fairs, etc.
The charming historic harbour of Porlock Weir is situated approximately 1.5 miles from Porlock village. It is a stunning location to sit and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the restaurants or pubs whilst watching the sun go down. There are a few shops, the Boat Shed Museum and an Aquarium which houses numerous species found in the Bristol Channel. Small parts of a prehistoric forest are visible at very low tide.
Culbone Church
Pre-Norman Culbone Church is the smallest church in England, which is not accessible by car and is accessed from Porlock Weir via the South West Coast Path. It is approximately a 1.5 mile woodland walk passing through the Fairytale Tunnels constructed by Lady Lovelace (Lord Byron’s daughter) to enable her to come and go undetected from her fairytale mansion (now a ruin) to her private beach below.
Dunster
Steeped in history Dunster is a picturesque medieval village located 8 miles from Maxwelton and home to Dunster Castle. A castle has been sited in this location since at least Norman times. This National Trust property hosts many events throughout the year including battle reenactments, medieval games, ghost tours, pirate quest for treasure.
Dunster was once an important wool trading centre and has a unique octagonal yarn market which was built in the early 17th century by the Luttrell family. Another National Trust property within the village is an 18th century restored watermill. Within the village there are at least 200 listed buildings. The River Avill runs through Dunster and there are many beautiful walks/rides around here. You can visit the tallest tree in England at Nutcombe Bottom near Dunster. The well known hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful” was inspired in this area, with the River Avill being “the river running by”, and “the purple headed mountain referring to Dunkery Beacon”.
Dunster by Candlelight which is held early in December is filled with atmosphere and guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit.
Tarr Steps
One of our favourite places to visit is Tarr Steps (approximately 15 miles from our cottage) where the medieval clapper bridge crosses the River Barle where children love to play in the river which is also popular for canoeing. A footpath along the River Barle leads to the pretty village of Withypool. The Inn at Tarr Steps serves delicious lunches and cream teas.
Lynton and Lynmouth
Enjoy a spectacular drive from Porlock which combines high, rugged, tree clad cliffs and sweeping moorland, Lynton and Lymouth grew up around the wooded deep valleys of the East and West Lyn rivers. The Victorians described it as “Little Switzerland of England”.
A water powered funicular cliff railway links the two villages. You will find plenty of places to eat, and Lynmouth has a putting green, tennis court and quaint fisherman’s cottages. Lynmouth is approximately 10 miles from Porlock, and Lynton approximately 12 miles. Lynmouth is popular a popular spot for surfing.
The Valley of the Rocks
The South West Coast Path which leads from Lynton to the Valley of the Rocks offers the most incredible views. The cliffs are some of the highest in Britain. There are the famous wild goats who live in the Valley of the Rocks as well as Exmoor ponies.
Watersmeet
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or more challenging hike along the East Lyn River Gorge at Watersmeet and enjoy a delicious Cream Tea in the tea room. If you are an experienced canoeist enjoy the challenges this river offers, (suitable for experienced canoeists only!). Salmon and brown trout fishing in season.
Woody Bay & Heddon’s Mouth
The unspoilt beach at Woody Bay is perfect for a cooling dip in the sea (approximately 3 miles from Lynton, 15 miles from Porlock. Continue along the road through the Valley of the Rocks through the toll at Lee Abbey to the hidden gem of Woody Bay, (3 miles east of Lynton).
From Woody Bay follow the pretty narrow lanes along the coast from Woody Bay to the Hunters Lodge Inn, where you can park and enjoy the riverside walk to Heddons Mouth.