Lynmouth to Hillsford

The Exmoor walk from Lynmouth to Hillsford Bridge is quite a challenging one at 7.5 miles. In terms of terrain, there is one steep hill near the start of the walk, but the rest is either downhill or fairly level. The walk passes the town of Lynmouth where refreshments and facilities are available, so this is a good spot for a rest.

The walk starts at the car park in Lyn Dale Cross and heads to Hillsford Bridge over the beautiful Lyn Valley. There are seats along the way to stop and rest while you take in the views, and look out for the National Trust cafe in Watersmeet.

The Prehistoric Chains

The Prehistoric Chains is a 6 mile Exmoor walk starting from Goat Hill that’s a perfect way to explore the National Park’s historic sites! The walk from Goat Hill to Challacombe starts at Packhore Bridge which dates back to 1843, and passes the Pinkery Pond reservoir and Moles Chamber on the ancient Harepath.

Moles Chamber earned its name when it took the life of Reverend Moles and his horse in the 18 Century and is another example of Exmoor’s living history. A detour can also be taken to Longstone when you reach the top of the barrow.

Bull and Morte Points

The Bull and Morte Points Exmoor walk is 5 miles long and starts in Morthoe. There are hills involved in the walk, but they are mainly moderate. To start this Exmoor walks, leave the Morthoe car park and follow signs for ‘Lighthouse Lee.’

A tarmac path leads you away from the village and up the first hill, turn left at the fork and pass through the gates signed for ‘Bull Point.’

Unfortunately, Morte Point is famed for being the spot of many a shipwreck, and it literally translates to 'death point'!.

The Doone Valley from Malmsmead

This 8.5 mile walk will be a must for fans of the classic novel Lorna Doone, as it includes some of the most significant sites mentioned in the book. The walk begins in the pretty village of Malmsmead and continues over moors and through valleys, weaving past the haunts of the fictional residents depicted by R.D. Blackmore.

The highlights of the walk are Oare Church, where Lorna was shot on her wedding day and Cloud Farm, where a memorial to R.D Blackmore can be found. Although set in the 1680s, the areas of Exmoor now known as Lorna Doone country are largely unchanged, so walkers can fancy themselves walking the same paths are the characters!