Unlike Dartmoor, which is exclusively in Devon, Exmoor National Park lies mostly in Somerset but partly in Devon.
It is not much like Dartmoor as there are no tors or granite outcrops on hilltops. Exmoor enjoys some of England's loveliest coastline as well as splendid old woodlands and open moorland. The walk along the cliffs from Porlock Weir, with its pebble beach, through the woods to the tiny church at Culbone is absolutely idyllic. The Valley of Rocks, stretching from Lynton westwards, is superb.
There are fascinating towns inland such as Dulverton, while Selworthy on the coast near Minehead contains delightful thatched cottages.
The moor is one of only two places in England, along with part of the Lake District, where herds of red deer are found. There are also feral goats in the Valley of Rocks.
Porlock Hill, the main road connecting Devon and Somerset, was much dreaded in the days of older cars and many a clutch met its end on the climb. Today it is straightforward enough, though you may still prefer one of the toll road bypasses for the beauty of the scenery.
