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Whether you’re after a challenging hike or a family-friendly walk, there are trails at Watersmeet to suit just about everyone. Watersmeet is owned by the National Trust, covers 2000 acres of land reaching up to Countisbury and is where the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water meet. Cross bridges, wander the water’s edge and work up an appetite on your way to the charming tearoom where delicious treats await and you can savour a traditional cream tea.
If you fancy a swim, there are some safe spots to jump in and take the plunge. Long Pool is a deep pool where you can make a splash and Crook’s Pool is big and shallow- perfect for a paddle or a quick dip.
There is parking at Watersmeet though it’s a steep walk down to the path so take care.
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Stretching for 630 miles between Minehead and Poole, some of the most rugged and dramatic sections of the coastal path can be found along the North Devon Coast and into Exmoor National Park. Many of the holiday cottages in and around Exmoor are well connected to easily access the popular walks along the South West Coastal Path. Start with Valley of Rocks (see below), or continue walking away from Lynton and you’ll pass Lee Abbey and its quaint beach, Woody Bay where you can dip in the Victorian bathing pool and Heddon’s Mouth where you can whet your appetite at the Hunter’s Inn. Tread the coast path in the opposite direction and you’ll ascend the majestic Countisbury Hill, wander past Foreland Point Lighthouse and duck under enchanted roots in the woodland at Glenthorne Cliffs towards Porlock.
At Lynmouth, the South West Coast Path links with the Coleridge Way, a trail which inspired Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the Romantic poet, to produce some of his most famous work.
The Valley of the Rocks is a stone’s throw from Lynton and is home to staggering views which will whisk you right into holiday mode come rain or shine. The views never disappoint. Choose to amble around and explore this unique landscape or climb high above the crashing ocean. Meet the local four-legged friends- the goats who call this land home, then venture down to Wringcliff Beach which sits beneath the fascinating cliffs.
Venture further into Exmoor National Park and tread well-trodden paths which crisscross the magical expanse of moorland. Follow the winding river in Simonsbath, spot wild deer in Cloutsham, and Exmoor ponies in Winsford before hunting out a lunch spot from one of the local pubs which serve up hearty food and most of which welcome your four-legged walking companion. There are plenty of safe spots for wild-swimming, namely Landacre Bridge where you can make a splash then walk to Withypool for lunch. The highest point of the National Park, at 519 metres, is Dunkery Beacon, well worth a visit and easily accessible due to nearby car parks. Tarr Steps is a family favourite with an easy waterside walk which crosses the river and a delightful pub where you can reward your efforts.
