Porlock is a village on the A39 between Minehead and Lynmouth, sitting in a sheltered valley just below the dramatic Exmoor ridge. The village itself is pleasant rather than spectacular, but the surrounding area is excellent. The infamous Porlock Hill — one of the steepest main roads in England — rises sharply to the south, with a toll road offering an easier alternative.
The best walks are in the hills and combes nearby. Luccombe and Selworthy (with its thatched cottages and hilltop beacon) are among the prettiest corners of Exmoor, and Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on the moor, rises just to the south. Porlock Weir, a short distance west, is a tiny harbour with a pebble beach, a handful of fishermen's cottages, and a good pub — and from here a superb cliff path leads through ancient oak woodland to the isolated Culbone Church, reputedly the smallest complete church in England.