Hidden Exmoor: Secret Valleys, Ancient Woods & Wild Moorland
- Dawn Fletcher
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
One of my favourite places to spend a day out is Exmoor National Park. Even though it is right on our doorstep here at Newberry Valley I don't get out there often enough but I really wouldn't want you to miss out on a great day trip so I thought it was worth creating a Touring Route for you.
Approximate driving time: 4–5 hours (allow a full day with stops)
Distance: Around 65 miles
While many visitors head straight for the famous beauty spots, this route takes you through some of Exmoor's quieter corners, where you'll discover hidden valleys, tiny villages, ancient woodlands and spectacular views.
Pack a picnic, bring your camera and don't forget the binoculars as you never know when you might spot red deer soaring buzzards or even Exmoor ponies.
Stop 1: Landacre Bridge
Leave Newberry Valley and make your way towards Withypool.
Just before the village you'll find Landacre Bridge, one of Exmoor's prettiest medieval bridges spanning the River Barle.
It's wonderfully peaceful here. Children love paddling in the shallow water during summer (when conditions are safe), while adults can simply enjoy the silence and the beautiful riverside setting. Perfect for morning coffee, family photos and wildlife spotting
Stop 2: Withypool
A traditional Exmoor village that feels wonderfully untouched. Pop into the village shop for ice creams or enjoy a drink at the Royal Oak if you fancy an early lunch.
If you have younger children, there's plenty of space beside the river to explore.
Stop 3: Tarr Steps
Follow the quiet roads through the valley to one of Exmoor's oldest treasures.
Tarr Steps is believed to be over 3,000 years old and is the longest clapper bridge in Britain.
The woodland walk beside the River Barle is beautiful in summer, offering plenty of shade on warmer days.
Children love crossing the huge stone slabs and searching for fish in the river below.
Picnic Stop: Tarr Steps Woodland
This is the perfect place to unpack a picnic.
There are grassy areas beside the river, lots of butterflies in summer and plenty of places for children to explore safely while parents relax.
Stop 4: Winsford Hill
Leave the valley behind and climb onto the open moor.
This is where Exmoor begins to feel truly wild.
Keep your eyes open for
Exmoor ponies
And also for:
• Red deer
• Buzzards
• Kestrels
The views stretch for miles and, even in summer, it's often wonderfully quiet.
Stop 5: Exford
One of Exmoor's prettiest villages.
The green is perfect for children to burn off a little energy in the play area while parents enjoy an ice cream or afternoon tea.
The white cottages, old bridge and peaceful atmosphere make this one of those places that feels unchanged for generations.
Stop 6: Simonsbath
Right in the heart of Exmoor.
This tiny village is often missed by visitors but makes an ideal stop for refreshments.
The surrounding countryside is breathtaking and there are several gentle riverside walks if you fancy stretching your legs.
Scenic Drive Home
Enjoy the fabulous drive back to Newberry Valley folowing the B3358 through the rolling Exmoor countryside before joining the A399 back to the village. Or head over the top of the moors again to drop down towards Barbrook and the A39. Either way it's a lovely end to a spectacular day.
Newberry Valley Top Tips
✔ Leave early to enjoy the quieter roads.
✔ Bring a picnic blanket.
✔ Mobile signal can be limited on Exmoor - that's all part of its charm!
✔ Take binoculars if you have them.
✔ Please leave gates as you find them and take your litter home.
✔ Drive slowly - you'll be sharing the roads with sheep, ponies, cyclists and sometimes red deer.
A little challenge...
See if your family can spot:
□ An Exmoor pony
□ A buzzard
□ A red deer
□ A stone bridge
□ A river with stepping stones
□ A butterfly
□ A sheep with black faces
Have a wonderful day exploring one of England's most beautiful national parks and do take some photos to send to us... Sometimes the best memories are made on the roads less travelled.
Join us at Newberry Valley Park, perfectly nestled on the edge of the lovely seaside village of Combe Martin. Book now to secure your spot and immerse yourself in the delights North Devon & EXmoor has to offer you!
